In a shocking incident that has sent ripples through Bangladesh's political landscape, the residence of Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) candidate Monowar Sarkar was deliberately set ablaze in Comilla's Daudkandi upazila. The attack, which occurred late Sunday night, has intensified concerns about political violence ahead of crucial elections.
Family Narrowly Escapes Inferno
According to Sarkar's account, the assailants specifically targeted his family home while his wife, children, and elderly parents were inside. "The attackers came with clear intent to harm my family and destroy our property," Sarkar stated, his voice trembling with emotion. "We were fortunate to escape with our lives, but we've lost everything we built over decades."
Political Motive Behind the Attack
The BNP candidate didn't mince words when identifying the perpetrators. "This was a calculated attack by my political opponents who want to eliminate me from the electoral race," Sarkar alleged. While he stopped short of naming specific individuals, he pointed toward supporters of rival political factions operating in the region.
Local witnesses described scenes of chaos as flames engulfed the property. "We saw masked individuals fleeing the area just before the fire spread rapidly," shared a neighbor who requested anonymity due to safety concerns.
Police Response and Investigation
Law enforcement authorities have confirmed the incident and launched an investigation. Officer-in-Charge Shah Alam of Daudkandi Police Station acknowledged receiving the formal complaint. "We're examining all evidence and pursuing multiple leads. The nature of the fire suggests deliberate arson," he confirmed.
Growing Political Tensions in Comilla
This violent episode occurs against a backdrop of escalating political rivalries in the Comilla region. Political analysts suggest this attack represents a dangerous escalation in tactics being employed to intimidate candidates and influence electoral outcomes.
The BNP has condemned the attack in strongest terms, calling for immediate government intervention to protect opposition candidates and ensure free and fair elections. Party officials have demanded a thorough, transparent investigation and swift justice for the perpetrators.
Impact on Electoral Process
This incident raises serious questions about the safety of political candidates and the integrity of the electoral process in Bangladesh. Human rights organizations and election monitoring groups have expressed alarm at the deteriorating security situation for opposition figures.
As investigations continue, the Sarkar family remains displaced, taking shelter with relatives while assessing the extensive damage to their property and personal belongings.
