A violent clash broke out in Rajshahi on Thursday afternoon over control of the district motor workers’ union office, leading to explosions, vandalism, and panic in the Shirail bus terminal area. The confrontation, which lasted about an hour, involved supporters of Rafiqul Islam Pakhi, the acting general secretary of the union and convener of the city workers’ party. Witnesses reported that Pakhi’s followers detonated several crude bombs to disperse rivals and seize control of the office.

The conflict followed growing internal disputes after Pakhi assumed his position following the fall of the Awami League government. Tensions escalated when some workers were allegedly assaulted by his supporters, prompting protests and demands for new elections. On Thursday, opposing groups armed with rods and pipes gathered in different parts of the city before the clash erupted.

Local residents alleged that police were present but failed to intervene effectively. Authorities later deployed additional forces to stabilize the area, which remained tense amid fears of renewed violence.