Attack by Banned Chhatra League at NCP Rally Venue: Cocktail Explosion Reported

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News Desk: Violence erupted at the rally venue of the National Citizen Party (NCP) in Gopalganj as acts of vandalism were carried out by members of the banned student organization Chhatra League and the suspended Awami League.

The incident occurred around 1:35 PM on Wednesday (July 16) at the Municipal Park area in Gopalganj town. Officer-in-Charge of Gopalganj Sadar Police Station, Mir Md. Sajedur Rahman, confirmed the incident. Alongside the vandalism, there were reports of cocktail explosions and chase-and-counter-chase clashes.

According to locals, members of the banned Chhatra League and Awami League armed with sticks and rods launched the attack from various streets surrounding the Municipal Park. They also confirmed hearing the loud blasts of homemade explosives (cocktails) during the assault.

Prior to this, the same group reportedly set fire to a police vehicle and attacked the car of the Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO).

Since July 1, the National Citizen Party has been carrying out a countrywide campaign titled “March for Nation-Building in July.” As part of this month-long program, today’s rally in Gopalganj was scheduled.

Just a day earlier, on Tuesday, the party’s verified Facebook page officially announced today’s event under the title “March to Gopalganj – July 16.”

Superintendent of Police (SP) Mizanur Rahman stated, “We have taken adequate security measures. Over 600 members of police and law enforcement have been deployed. We are alert to prevent any untoward incident.”