At least four people have been killed, nine have sustained gunshot wounds, and over fifty have been injured in repeated clashes in Gopalganj centering on the National Citizens` Party (NCP)`s announced `July March` program.
Due to the escalating violence, the local administration imposed a curfew in the district from 8 PM Wednesday until 6 PM Thursday.
The NCP organized a march program titled `March to Gopalganj` in Gopalganj city on Wednesday (July 16) morning. However, the situation in various parts of the city became tense after 9 AM. NCP activists allege that Awami League and Chhatra League members obstructed their processions and rallies and launched attacks.
Incidents of vandalism and arson occurred in Kangshur of Sadar Upazila, targeting police vehicles, the UNO`s convoy, the municipal park rally venue, the District Commissioner`s residence, and even around the district jail.
NCP top leaders arrived at the rally venue shortly after 2 PM. They were attacked again while returning after the rally. At one point, they took refuge in the District Police Office.
The army, RAB, and BGB were deployed to control the situation. Armored vehicles of the army were used to transport NCP leaders from Gopalganj to Khulna in the evening.
The NCP claimed that attackers entered various mosques and used loudspeakers to deliver provocative speeches. They also questioned the passive role of the local administration and police.
In protest of the incidents, NCP and anti-discrimination student movement activists blocked roads in Shahbagh, Dhaka, and various other districts. Reports of protests near the Padma Bridge toll plaza also emerged.
Condemning the incident, the interim government stated in a press release that the culprits would be swiftly identified and brought to justice.
Meanwhile, a source from Police Headquarters stated that based on the night`s situation, an additional 1,500 police personnel have been decided to be deployed in Gopalganj.
However, many police members could not enter the city due to trees being felled and blocking the roads leading into the city.
Comment :