A long-standing jurisdictional feud turned deadly in Barukula village on Monday morning, leaving four people dead and at least ten others injured. The violence, which broke out around 5:30 AM in Singasholpur Union, is the latest escalation in a 20-year rivalry between local factions.
The deceased have been identified as Khalil Sheikh, his son Tahajjud Hossain, and their relative Ferdous Hossain. The fourth deceased, Osibur Mia—a former chairman associated with the "Khair Group"—succumbed to his injuries at a hospital around 8:00 AM.
"Ten years ago, we sold our home in Tarapur to escape the oppression of Chairman Khair," sobbed Sumi Begum, widow of Tahajjud Hossain, while clutching her two young children. "We moved to another village for peace, but they did not spare us. Now my husband, father-in-law, and relatives are all gone."
According to local sources, the conflict stems from a bitter rivalry between former chairmen Khairuzzaman Molya (alias Khair) and Ujjal Sheikh. Despite relocating five kilometers away to Barukula a decade ago to escape the "Khair Group," Khalil Sheikh’s family remained targets of litigation and sporadic attacks.
Witnesses reported that just before dawn, supporters of Khairuzzaman Molya entered Barukula, dragged the victims from their homes, and attacked them with sharp weapons and blunt objects.
By sunrise, the village was a scene of mourning. The bodies of Khalil Sheikh and Ferdous Hossain were found on the road, while Tahajjud Hossain lay in his family courtyard. Law enforcement, including police and army personnel, have since cordoned off the area.
While both Khairuzzaman and Ujjal Sheikh are affiliated with the BNP, neither currently holds an official party position. Locals noted that during the previous Awami League administration, former MP Kabirul Haque Mukti had briefly brokered a peace deal between the two. However, following the political shift on August 5, both factions reportedly became active again. Currently, Ujjal Sheikh remains in custody on separate charges.
MP Biswas Jahangir Alam visited the victims' families at 11:00 AM, promising swift justice. "No criminal will be spared, regardless of their affiliations," he told reporters.
RAB-6 (Jessore Camp) has arrested Roni Sikder, son of Amin Sikder, for inciting the violence. Major ATM Fazle Rabbi Prince, Company Commander of RAB-6, confirmed that evidence of Roni’s provocative activities was found. Four others are currently in custody for questioning.
Narail Superintendent of Police Al Mamun Sikder stated that while the situation remains tense, additional police units have been deployed to prevent further retaliatory strikes.
