A violent clash erupted at Baitul Mukarram mosque, the national mosque, between supporters of the current Khatib, Mufti Waliur Rahman Khan, and former Khatib, Mufti Ruhul Amin, resulting in at least 50 injuries.
The incident began during Khan's sermon when Ruhul Amin arrived with his followers and attempted to seize the microphone. This sparked a physical confrontation between the two groups, causing panic among worshippers and prompting many to leave the mosque.
As they exited, some worshippers began chanting slogans that called for violence against opponents. The situation escalated as crowds gathered outside the mosque, leading to their dispersal by police, the army, and Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) personnel.
Tensions had been rising prior to the Friday prayers due to the ongoing dispute over the Khatib position, further intensified by Ruhul Amin's return after his exile following the fall of the Awami League government.
In response to the unrest, security forces have been deployed to the area, including an armored police vehicle and a prison van stationed nearby. Water cannons and hundreds of officers have been mobilized at Paltan intersection to maintain order. Authorities have made repeated announcements urging the public to clear the area.
