On Wednesday, December 18, 2024, Sargis Alam, coordinator of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement, released a video message on social media addressing the ongoing conflict between the two factions of Tablig Jamaat. The divisions, centering on disagreements between the followers of Maulana Saad and Maulana Zubair, recently escalated into violence at the Tongi Ijtema ground.

In his video statement shared on Facebook, Sargis provided insights into the events leading up to the confrontation. According to him, Maulana Saad's followers expressed intentions to stage a protest in front of the residence of the chief adviser in Jamuna to press for their demands. A representative group engaged in discussions with the faction to mediate the situation. During the meeting, Maulana Saad's followers presented two primary demands: the facilitation of Maulana Saad's visa to travel from India and the allocation of the Ijtema ground for their exclusive use from December 20 to December 25 for the scheduled Jor Ijtema.

Following the initial discussions, the mediation group planned a subsequent dialogue with Maulana Zubair's faction. However, as they were en route to the faction's headquarters in Kakrail late Tuesday night, reports surfaced that Maulana Saad's followers were moving toward the Ijtema ground. Shortly after, news broke of violent clashes between the two groups.

Sargis expressed dismay at the actions of Maulana Saad's followers, stating that he personally contacted them to dissuade any movements that could exacerbate tensions. Despite his appeals, the group advanced to claim the ground, leading to a violent confrontation. The clashes resulted in several casualties, with reports confirming three to four fatalities and many more injured.

In his statement, Sargis criticized the disregard for ongoing negotiations, accusing Maulana Saad's followers of acting unilaterally and dishonoring the mediation process. He condemned the attack and the ensuing bloodshed, emphasizing that such actions undermine the principles of mutual respect and dialogue.

He further warned against justifying such violence under the guise of religious righteousness, stating, “We should not assume that sacrificing lives in such conflicts will lead to martyrdom or reward in paradise. From our limited understanding, this does not align with the spirit of genuine martyrdom.”

Sargis concluded his message with a strong call for justice, demanding exemplary punishment for all individuals responsible for the violent events. He urged both factions to prioritize peace and dialogue over conflict, asserting that accountability is crucial to restoring order and resolving the crisis.

The incident has drawn widespread attention, with many calling for increased intervention from authorities to mediate the longstanding disputes between the two Tablig Jamaat factions. Meanwhile, local and religious leaders are under pressure to prevent further escalations and ensure the safety of participants in upcoming events.