Allegations have been brought against a local Swechchhasebak Dal leader of assaulting three government employees during the Pahela Baishakh celebrations today in Birampur upazila of Dinajpur.

The accused is Arifur Rahman Russell, member secretary of the Birampur municipality Swechchhasebak Dal.

Upazila Nirbahi Officer Nuzhat Tasnim Aown, Birampur Police Station Officer-in-Charge Momtazul Haque, and Upazila BNP President Mia Shafiqul Alam Mamun and General Secretary Manzur Elahi Chowdhury Rubel were present at the venue at the time.

The incident took place around 11:00am at Birampur Upazila Parishad premises.

According to witnesses and locals, a dispute over food distribution escalated into violence when Russell, along with his associates, allegedly attacked three staff members who were involved in organising and distributing traditional food items for invited guests.

The victims are office assistants Emdadul Haque and Abu Hossain, and guard Mominul Islam alias Roni. They are all employees of the Upazila Parishad and the UNO office.

Emdadul Haque received treatment at the Upazila Health Complex, said the UNO.

One of the victims, Mominul Islam, said, "We were assigned to distribute food to the guests. During the process, Arifur Rahman Russell began helping himself to the food. When we tried to stop him, he and his associates attacked us."

Birampur upazila BNP President Mamun was present there. Upazila BNP General Secretary Rubel condemned the incident and left the venue shortly afterward.

However, both the leaders said Russell is part of the municipal unit and not under their direct jurisdiction. Discussions would be held regarding disciplinary actions, they said.

No formal complaint had been lodged with the police as of Monday afternoon.

OC Momtazul Haque said legal steps would be taken once a complaint is officially filed.

However, UNO Nuzhat Tasnim said the victims had been advised to file a complaint with the police, assuring that appropriate legal measures would follow.

"This kind of incident during a public cultural celebration attended by hundreds is unacceptable," she added.

No comments were available from Russell as he did not receive phone calls despite repeated attempts.