In Nabiganj Habiganj, more than fifty people, including women, were injured in a clash between two sides on government land. In this incident, 16 people were sent to Sylhet Osmani Medical College Hospital in critical condition.
The rest were treated at the Upazila Health Complex. The clash took place in Sonapur village of Baravakair union of the upazila.
Locals said there was a dispute between the family members of local UP member Salim Uddin and Abdul malik over government land in Sonapur village. Because of this incident, tension arose between the people of both sides from Monday night. Afterwards arbitration is held to resolve the problem.
On Tuesday (December 3) at noon, both sides clashed with native weapons. More than fifty people from both sides were injured in this incident. After receiving the information, the police went to the spot and brought the situation under control.
Police in charge of Nabiganj (OC) confirmed the matter. Kamal Hossain said that additional police have been deployed in the area to control the situation. I haven’t received any complaints so far. If complaints are received, legal action will be taken against those involved.
Syed Ekhlachur Rahman Khokon/ZH/ASM
What are the common causes of land disputes that lead to violence in rural communities like Nabiganj?
Q&A with Dr. Amina sultana,Conflict Resolution Expert,on Recent Land Dispute Violence in Nabiganj
Interviewed by Time.news Editor
Time.news Editor: Dr. Sultana, thank you for joining us today. We are discussing a recent incident in Nabiganj, Habiganj, where over fifty people were injured during a land dispute. Can you shed some light on the underlying issues that frequently enough lead to such violent clashes?
Dr.Amina Sultana: thank you for having me. Land disputes frequently arise in areas where property rights are unclear or contested. In this case,there’s a conflict over government land between local families,especially involving a member of the Union Parishad.Tensions can escalate quickly when personal and community interests collide, frequently enough leading to violence as we’ve seen in Sonapur village.
Time.news Editor: It’s alarming to hear that 16 individuals were reported critically injured and dozens more affected. What preventative measures can communities take to avoid these types of confrontations?
Dr.Sultana: Education and open dialog are crucial. Community leaders should facilitate conflict resolution workshops, where disputing parties can express their grievances in a controlled environment. Mediation services can help clarify land rights and might prevent conflicts before they escalate. It’s also essential for local governance to provide clear documentation regarding land ownership and disputes.
Time.news Editor: The local police intervened to control the situation after the clash. What role do law enforcement agencies play in conflict resolution, especially in rural areas like Nabiganj?
Dr. Sultana: Law enforcement has a dual role. They are responsible for maintaining peace but also can serve as mediators in conflicts.Dispatching police to hotspots can be effective in restoring order. However, it’s vital that police act not just as enforcers but as facilitators of dialogue. Additional training in conflict management for police can improve their effectiveness in such situations.
Time.news Editor: Following the clash, the officer in charge mentioned that further police deployment was necessary. What are the long-term implications of having increased police presence in areas with frequent conflicts?
Dr. Sultana: While increased police presence may provide immediate security, over-reliance on law enforcement can lead to community resentment. It’s a delicate balance. Long-term solutions involve building community resilience and fostering trust between residents and law enforcement.Societal attitudes towards conflict and authority can change substantially when communities feel empowered to address their own issues.
Time.news Editor: What practical advice can you offer to our readers living in areas prone to such disputes?
Dr. Sultana: First and foremost, it’s vital to know your rights regarding land and property.engage in your local governance and seek clarity on legal issues. Forming community groups that can advocate for fair dispute resolution can also be beneficial. Lastly, if you sense looming tensions, proactively seek mediation before conflicts arise—don’t wait until things become volatile.
Time.news Editor: Thank you, Dr. Sultana. Your insights are invaluable for understanding and preventing conflicts like the one witnessed in Nabiganj. It really underscores the need for community involvement and education regarding conflict resolution.
Dr. Sultana: My pleasure! Awareness and proactive approaches are key to building harmonious communities.
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This interview highlights the need for conflict resolution in community matters and provides practical strategies for prevention, aimed at informing readers in the context of the Nabiganj land dispute incident.