Pabna, Oct 18 (V7N) – A prolonged conflict between two villages over ownership of an Eidgah field has forced the closure of at least 20 businesses at Atlongka Bazaar in Pabna’s Chatmohar upazila for the past 15 days, leaving local traders in deep financial distress. Many of them are struggling to repay loans, while their families are enduring hardship.

The affected shop owners, all residents of Banyagari village under Mulgram Union, have submitted written complaints to the Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) and the Officer-in-Charge (OC) of Chatmohar Police Station, seeking intervention. However, they claim that no effective solution has been reached yet.

According to the complaint, the dispute centers on an Eidgah field located beside the Chiknai River near Atlongka Bazaar. The rivalry between residents of Banyagari and Atlongka villages has persisted for years, escalating into a violent clash on October 2. At least 30 people from both sides were injured in that confrontation. Since then, tension between the two communities has intensified, and the market remains shut to traders from Banyagari.

Local businessmen allege that Atlongka villagers have been preventing them from entering the market or reopening their shops.

Al Mamun, owner of Mamun Tailors, said, “It’s true that there is a dispute over the Eidgah field, but why should that stop us from doing business? People from Atlongka are not allowing us to open our shops. I took out loans to run my business, and now I can’t repay the installments. My family is going through a very tough time.”

Grocery store owner Habibullah echoed similar frustrations. “My shop has been closed for 15 days, and my goods are spoiling. Who will compensate me for this loss? If I can’t reopen my shop, I’ll be ruined. Whenever I try to open, they threaten me,” he said.

Rural physician Abdul Karim added, “Because my pharmacy is closed, I can’t serve patients properly. They now have to buy medicines elsewhere. This situation can’t go on — it’s harming the whole community.”

Other traders, including construction materials dealer Fazlul Haque and workshop owner Rubel Hossain, said they are struggling to survive. “We borrowed large sums to run our businesses. Now, with no income, we can’t pay loan installments or meet family expenses. Even buying medicine for sick relatives has become difficult,” they lamented.

The affected traders have urged local authorities to take immediate action to restore normalcy and allow them to reopen their businesses.

In response, Atlongka resident Hares Ali accused Banyagari villagers of blocking the road connecting the two areas. “They harass our people if anyone tries to pass through. Even women sending their children to madrasa are being mistreated. Our village elders will decide the next step,” he said.

Another Atlongka resident, BNP leader and principal Mahmudul Alam Mahmud, commented, “The elders and community leaders will sit together soon to discuss a peaceful resolution.”

When contacted, Chatmohar Police Station Officer-in-Charge (OC) Manjurul Alam said, “We have met with both sides, and their attitudes are positive. Residents of Atlongka will be allowed to use the Banyagari road, and Banyagari traders can reopen their shops in Atlongka Bazaar. We hope the issue will be resolved within the next couple of days.”

The continued closure of the market has disrupted the livelihoods of dozens of families in the area, highlighting how local disputes can severely impact rural economies if not promptly addressed.

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