Chhatra League Attacks NCP Program in Gopalganj; Army Deployed Amid Escalating Tensions

Violence and clashes erupted in Gopalganj on Wednesday (July 16) surrounding the central program of the National Citizens’ Party (NCP) titled "March to Gopalganj", part of their month-long "July March" campaign. A bomb attack and vandalism occurred at the rally venue in Gopalganj Sadar in the afternoon, allegedly carried out by activists of the ruling party’s student wing, Chhatra League.

At around 12:45 PM, assailants crossed a canal and launched the attack while chanting slogans. Crude bombs and bricks were thrown, spreading panic at the rally site and injuring several people. According to PNN’s on-site correspondent, the attack was not sudden — it occurred in the presence of police personnel. As a result, NCP leaders and even some police officers were forced to flee the rally ground.

However, within a short time, the situation was brought under control with the deployment of additional police forces, the army, and members of the Armed Police Battalion (APBN). NCP leaders and activists returned to the venue around 2:00 PM and resumed the program.

Earlier in the morning, leaders and activists of the Awami League and Chhatra League had blocked the Ghona Para–Tekerhat regional road in Gandhiyashur area of Sadar upazila by cutting down trees. When the Upazila Nirbahi Officer’s (UNO) motorcade approached the scene, it came under attack.

On the same day, police vehicles in Ulipur, Gopalganj Sadar, were also attacked, vandalized, and set on fire, resulting in injuries to at least three police personnel.

In response to the escalating violence, the army has deployed Armored Personnel Carriers (APCs) and taken up positions in key areas including Gopalganj Sadar, Tekerhat Road, Kotalipara, and Tungipara. So far, seven individuals have been arrested, although their identities have not been disclosed yet.

Officer-in-Charge (OC) of Gopalganj Sadar Police Station, Mir Md. Sajedur Rahman, said, “Multiple violent incidents have occurred throughout July centering on NCP’s march. There have been attacks on police vehicles, arson, and even assaults on government officials.”

It is worth noting that the NCP has been organizing rallies and marches across the country as part of its "July March" campaign. Wednesday’s program in Gopalganj was a key event in that series. However, opposition from local Awami League and its affiliated organizations has led to growing tension and unrest throughout the district.

The situation has now escalated political tensions nationwide, and law enforcement agencies are actively monitoring and working to maintain order.