Political unrest in Ashuganj involving Rumin Farhana

Political tensions escalated in Ashuganj, Brahmanbaria, following remarks made by independent Member of Parliament Rumin Farhana during a parliamentary session on September 9. Farhana had expressed skepticism regarding the Bangladesh Nationalist Party’s (BNP) ability to manage national crises such as gas, electricity, and fertilizer shortages.

In response, BNP members and affiliated organizations organized a protest march in Ashuganj, declaring Farhana “unwanted” in the area and accusing her of serving the interests of the Awami League and India.

The situation turned violent on September 16, when two supporters of Farhana were reportedly attacked by BNP leaders and activists near the Ashuganj Upazila Parishad complex. The victims, who had previously been expelled from the BNP for supporting Farhana, stated they were targeted due to their political affiliation. While the victims allege a premeditated attack, local BNP representatives described the incident as a “physical scuffle” resulting from a dispute over narcotics.