Tensions Rise in Jackson Heights Over Tarique Rahman’s New York Visit
Tensions have risen in Jackson Heights, New York, amid rival programs organized by supporters of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and the Awami League over BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman’s visit to New York.
Within a few hours, a welcome banner for Tarique Rahman was allegedly torn down, while supporters of the two political camps engaged in counter-slogans and stood face-to-face at separate locations in Jackson Heights. Additional police officers were later deployed to help control the situation.
Earlier, Awami League supporters were accused of tearing down a banner installed along a street in Jackson Heights welcoming Tarique Rahman. Photos and videos circulating on social media showed the banner in a torn condition. BNP supporters condemned the incident and urged all sides to conduct their programs peacefully without damaging banners or festoons.
Several hours later, BNP and Awami League supporters gathered separately in Jackson Heights in connection with Tarique Rahman’s participation in the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly. Among the slogans heard from Awami League supporters was, “December will come, Bangladesh will smile.” BNP supporters also chanted various slogans critical of the Awami League.
The situation became more tense as leaders and activists from different affiliated and allied organizations of both parties gathered in the area. At one point, the two groups exchanged chants, including mocking slogans such as “Bhua, bhua.” “Joy Bangla” slogans were also heard from Awami League supporters.
Police intervened and attempted to move members of both groups away from each other, urging them to maintain peace while carrying out their respective programs. When the situation reportedly moved toward a physical confrontation, police stepped in and brought the situation under control. Additional officers were deployed in the area.
Tarique Rahman left Dhaka for New York on Monday to attend the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly. He is scheduled to deliver Bangladesh’s address at the United Nations on September 24.
Ahead of his visit, BNP supporters had been preparing welcome programs in Jackson Heights and other areas with large Bangladeshi communities in New York. At the same time, the U.S. Awami League, Jubo League and New York Metropolitan Awami League, along with other affiliated organizations, announced counter-programs surrounding his visit.
Political activities within New York’s Bangladeshi community have consequently increased in recent days.
New York has also increased security measures around the United Nations General Assembly. Traffic restrictions have been imposed on several roads around the UN headquarters, while the New York Police Department has increased security arrangements for the visits and programs of heads of state and government.
No major casualties or serious clashes have been reported in connection with the recent incidents in Jackson Heights. However, the rival programs and face-to-face presence of supporters from the two political camps have created local tensions, prompting increased law-enforcement presence in the area.
