More than 50 people were injured as leaders and activists of BNP and the ruling Awami League locked in clashes in Khagrachhari this morning.
The clashes broke out at Shapla Chattar and nearby areas of the city from 10:30am when BNP supporters were bringing out their march as part of the central programme.
The march met with an AL procession that was also taking place on the same route.
The two groups later clashed and chased each other. The clashes continued for over an hour.
Local leaders of both AL and BNP have accused each other of starting the clashes.
Khagrachhari AL General Secretary and Municipality Mayor Nirmalendu Chowdhury said BNP cadres attacked AL men with weapons as the latter were joining their programme. At least 25-30 leaders were injured, he added.
Meanwhile, Khagrachhari BNP General Secretary MN Absar said AL men attacked BNP men during their march. He said that over 25 leaders were injured in the clash, adding that their party office was also vandalised.
Some of the injured were taken to Khagrachhari District Sadar Hospital. Police later brought the situation under control, reports our Rangamati correspondent quoting sources.
