Curfew and Section 144 lifted in Gopalganj

The curfew and Section 144 restrictions imposed in Gopalganj district following recent political unrest have been officially lifted, according to a statement from the district administration on Sunday evening.

The measures were initially enforced after violent clashes erupted during a rally organized by the National Citizen Party (NCP), leading to multiple fatalities and injuries. In response to the unrest, authorities imposed a strict curfew to restore order.

The district administration confirmed in a press release that both the curfew and Section 144 would no longer be in effect starting at 8:00 PM on Sunday. However, law enforcement operations to apprehend those responsible for the violence will continue.

"The overall situation remains under close observation. Further decisions will be made based on ongoing assessments," the statement said.

The violence began on Wednesday, July 16, when NCP supporters were attacked, allegedly by activists from the banned Chhatra League and members of the Awami League. The day-long clashes resulted in several deaths and widespread panic.

In the immediate aftermath, a curfew was imposed from 8:00 PM Wednesday until 6:00 PM Thursday. The curfew was subsequently extended in phases, with intermittent breaks, until Sunday morning. Section 144 was then enforced from 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM on Sunday before being fully withdrawn later in the evening.

Authorities have urged residents to remain calm and cooperate with ongoing investigations as normalcy gradually returns to the district.