There have been sporadic clashes between supporters of two Awami League general secretary candidates ahead of the Noakhali district conference of the party on Wednesday (Nov 20).
During this time, 130 persons were wounded and 103 were admitted to the Noakhali General Hospital.
During clashes, banners, festoons, billboards placed around the conference centre were vandalized. At this time, a cocktail exploded.
Witnesses say that around 9 in the morning, Noakhali municipality mayor Shahid Ullah Khan Shohel, also an aspirant for the district AL post of secretary, went towards the Shaheed Minar where he and his supporters were prevented by another aspirant for general secretary and MP, Ekramul Karim Chowdhury, and supporters. Clashes ensued and police dispersed the crowd and brought the situation under control.
But later, clashes erupted near the Shaheed Bhulu stadium in the district town.
Noakhali mayor Shohel, said: “My men were attacked without provocation by the MP and his supporters.
MP Ekramul made a counter allegation, saying: “They are trying to disrupt a peaceful conference and create unrest.”
Superintendent of Police Md Alamgir Hossain said: “The police are on high alert to maintain peace and order.”
The triennial AL conference is supposed to be held on Wednesday in Noakhali and an elaborate programme was arranged at the Shaheed Bhulu stadium.
Road Transport and Bridges Minister Obaidul Quader is supposed to be present as chief guest.