Bangladesh: Rival religious factions clash in Dhaka December 1

Event

At least one person was killed and another 200 wounded after two rival factions of the Tabligh Jamaat Islamic group clashed in Dhaka on Saturday, December 1. Fighting broke out in the Tongi area, near the Bishwa Ijtema grounds after the leader of one faction attempted to enter the area around 08:00 (local time). Supporters of the rival factions attacked each other with sticks and stones throughout the day, blocking the Dhaka-Mymenshingh Highway for around four hours. The traffic disruptions caused delays at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (DAC) until additional security forces with armored vehicles and water cannons were able to disperse the crowds. As of the morning of Sunday, December 2, the fighting has ended but further clashes and traffic disruptions cannot be ruled out in the coming days.

Context

The Tabligh Jamaat is a Sunni Muslim organization that is based out of New Delhi (India). Tensions have been high between the two factions since January 2018 over the selection of new leaders for the group.

Advice

Individuals in Dhaka are advised to monitor the situation and avoid all protests as a precaution.