A fierce internal conflict has erupted within the Jamalpur district unit of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) over the leasing of a sand quarry on the Brahmaputra River. The dispute, which began after the April 19 tender for the Jatharthapur-Chhonkanda Ghat sand lease, has escalated into public accusations, viral audio clips, and counter press conferences. The lease was awarded to Shamim Enterprise, owned by the wife of a local BNP leader, prompting rival factions to allege manipulation in the bidding process.

The district BNP is now divided into at least four factions led by different leaders, with the rivalry intensifying ahead of the upcoming municipal elections. Allegations of corruption, extortion, and favoritism have flooded social media, causing embarrassment for grassroots activists who claim long-time loyalists are being sidelined by opportunists. Party leaders have exchanged denials and counterclaims through press briefings and online videos.

District BNP President Faridul Kabir Talukdar Shamim urged restraint, warning that continued infighting could damage the party’s image and organizational unity in Jamalpur.