Critically injured Kazi Rubel, nephew of Amjad's rival and alliance ticket aspirant Mahfuzur Rahman, died at Rangpur Medical College Hospital (RMCH) soon after he was taken there. Seven of the injured are being treated at RMCH and the rest at local clinics.

Mahfuzur Rahman is a member of Public Service Commission (PSC).

At least 25 motorcycles, used in a showdown by Amjad were burnt during the clashes. Amjad was a lawmaker from Syedpur-Kishoreganj constituency.

Protesting the murder and violence, several thousand people from adjoining villages brought out a big procession and paraded the streets of Syedpur town yesterday carrying the body of Rubel. They demanded Amjad's trial for inciting the clash.

Police and eyewitness said that Amjad Hossain Sarker attended a public meeting at Hazari Haat (a market) in Syedpur Monday evening. After the meeting, Amjad came to Sipaiganj market with a procession of about 100 motorcycles.

He delivered a fiery speech at Sipaiganj market, bitterly criticising his political rival Mahfuzur Rahman, an aspirant for BNP-led alliance ticket from the same constituency.

Locals said Mahfuzur Rahman has many relatives and supporters living in Sipaiganj and surrounding villages, who are influential in the area.

The locals claimed that the clashes ensued when Amjad's supporters attacked some villagers.

Amjad's brother and Syedpur Jubo Dal president RashidulAlam Sarker was also injured in the clashes. The villagers also detained Amjad Sipaiganj in the market but he managed to escape, locals said.

Rubel's uncle Kazi Motahar Hossain alleged that Amzad Hossain Sarker and his men are responsible for the death of his son.

Rubel's relatives were preparing to file a murder case accusing Amjad, his brother Rashidul Alam and others, sources said.

This correspondent could not contact Amjad over cell phone despite repeated attempts.