Gopalganj, July 17 (V7N) - On Wednesday, Gopalganj town turned into a battleground as clashes and violent attacks erupted surrounding the National Citizens Party (NCP) rally. Four people were killed and over one hundred injured, including nine who sustained gunshot wounds. The violence was accompanied by widespread arson and vandalism carried out by activists affiliated with the ruling Awami League and the banned student wing, Chhatra League.
 
The deceased include Ramzan Kazi (19) from Horinahati village in Kotalipara, Sohel Rana (35) from Shanapara, Dipto Saha (30) from Udayan Road, and Imon Talukdar (24) from Bherar Bazar. Their families allege they were shot by law enforcement personnel. Hospital officials confirmed gunshot wounds on the bodies.
 
Gopalganj General Hospital’s chief medical officer, Dr. Jibitesh Biswas, reported that four bodies were received, with three seriously injured patients transferred to Dhaka. Among the wounded is a young driver, Suman Biswas, admitted to Dhaka Medical College Hospital with gunshot injuries to his abdomen and fingers.
 
NCP has accused the Awami League and banned Chhatra League activists of orchestrating a premeditated terrorist-style attack aimed at killing NCP and Ganobhobothan leaders. The unrest began early Wednesday with attacks on police vehicles and vandalism of the Upazila Nirbahi Officer’s (UNO) car. Clashes between law enforcement and attackers escalated throughout the day, with hundreds, including police personnel, injured.
 
In response to the deteriorating security situation, a curfew was imposed in Gopalganj from 8 pm Wednesday, remaining in effect until 6 pm Thursday. The district also saw the deployment of Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) forces. This marks the first curfew since the interim government took office, previously last seen during the student protests under the former Awami League government.
 
The violence stemmed from tensions surrounding the NCP’s “March to Gopalganj” campaign. Prior to the rally, social media campaigns had heightened agitation, and clashes began when activists set fire to a police vehicle and later attacked the UNO’s car. Armed groups carrying sticks and shouting slogans attacked the NCP rally venue at the Municipal Park, damaging property and creating chaos.
 
NCP leaders and security forces managed to disperse the attackers temporarily, but as the NCP convoy moved towards Madaripur, they faced further assaults at the Launchghat area. Stones and crude explosives were thrown at the vehicles, sparking violent confrontations between activists and security forces.
 
Multiple political parties, including BNP and Jamaat, condemned the violence and demanded a transparent investigation and punishment for those responsible. The government pledged strict action against the perpetrators.
 
Following the unrest, NCP has called for nationwide protests and human chains at police stations in the capital to protest the attacks.
 
In addition to the clashes, significant damage occurred to government facilities, including attacks on the Gopalganj District Jail and the Deputy Commissioner’s residence. Fires were set, and several security personnel injured during these incidents.
 
Due to the unrest, the Higher Secondary Certificate (HSC) exams scheduled in Gopalganj were postponed, while exams in other districts proceeded as planned.
 
The government and police command have increased security presence and vowed to dismantle banned terrorist groups involved in the violence. Local authorities have urged citizens to remain indoors during the curfew period to maintain peace.
 
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