PABNA, MAY 25 (V7N) – Tensions and violence continue to plague the char areas of Ishwardi, Pabna, fueled by disputes over the occupation of "Balu Mahal" (sand quarries) on the Padma River. In a recent incident, eight farmers were severely beaten and injured while cultivating their land in the char, and two of their cows were allegedly slaughtered and consumed by "sand bandits" in what was described as a "picnic."

The incident occurred on Sunday afternoon at Padma Char in the Arambari area of Sada Union, Ishwardi. Locals report that individuals involved in illegal sand extraction are now attacking anyone who enters the char, leading to bloody injuries.

The injured farmers have been identified as Ansar Ali Majhi (67), Majnu Hossain (35), Machidul Islam (36), Majidul Islam (40), Liton Khan (40), Sohan, Arafat, and Ejazul. All are marginal farmers who have long cultivated their own and leased land that has emerged in the Padma River. Liton Khan, whose condition is critical, has been transferred to Rajshahi Medical College Hospital (RMCH) from Ishwardi Upazila Health Complex.

Injured farmers, including Ansar Majhi, Majnu, Machidul, Sohan, and Arafat, alleged that while there had been recent clashes between Ishwardi Upazila Jubo Dal convener Sultan Ali Biswas Tony and sand bandit Kakon over sand extraction, they, as farmers, are neutral parties. They claimed that on Sunday morning, while they were cultivating their ancestral land in the char, Kakon's people attacked them, beat them, and injured them. They also stated that their two cows were snatched, slaughtered, and then eaten by the attackers.

Shahidul Islam Shishir, resident physician at Ishwardi Upazila Health Complex, confirmed Liton's critical condition and transfer to RMCH, with others receiving treatment at the local hospital.

Laxmikunda Naval Police Outpost In-Charge (OC) Emran Mahmud Tuhin stated he was unaware of the matter and would look into it, noting that no complaint had been filed.

Despite repeated attempts, the accused Kakon could not be reached for comment since Sunday evening.

However, multiple reliable sources in Ishwardi indicate that Kakon and his associates have been occupying and cultivating sand and land in the char area for over 20 years, controlling sand palaces and engaging in trade. They reportedly live day and night on the Padma River, possess illegal weapons, and operate engine-powered boats and speedboats. Sources describe Kakon as not being a formal party leader but someone who leverages political influence when a party comes to power.

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