Joint forces launch crackdown after violent clashes in Gopalganj

Tensions erupted in Gopalganj on Wednesday as a rally organized by the National Citizen Party (NCP) descended into violence. Alleged attacks by members of the banned student group Chhatra League and local Awami League activists led to fierce clashes with law enforcement. In response, joint forces comprising the police, Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB), and the army—launched an operation to restore order and detain those responsible.

Earlier in the day, the district administration imposed Section 144 in Gopalganj to prevent large gatherings and further unrest. The directive came shortly after violence broke out near Poura Park, where the NCP was holding a rally as part of its "July March" program—an initiative advocating for state reforms, justice for the July massacre, and an end to discrimination in Bangladesh.

According to NCP leaders, activists of the banned Chhatra League stormed the stage around noon, chanting "Joy Bangla" slogans. They allegedly arrived in a sudden procession, vandalized sound systems, microphones, and chairs, and physically assaulted NCP members present at the rally. Several crude bombs (locally known as cocktails) were also detonated during the attack.

Fearing further violence, senior NCP leaders took shelter at the Gopalganj Superintendent of Police’s office. “A portion of our convoy was headed to Madaripur, but we feared it would be attacked. The rest couldn't move due to the situation. We had no choice but to seek police protection,” one NCP leader said.

As violence intensified, police were seen firing rubber bullets and using sound grenades to disperse the crowd. Awami League and Chhatra League supporters retaliated by pelting stones and bricks at the NCP convoy. Multiple vehicles were damaged in the unrest.

The joint forces operation began shortly after the clashes, targeting those involved in the attack. Authorities say efforts are ongoing to stabilize the situation and prevent further violence.

The Gopalganj district administration has called on all political parties to exercise restraint and cooperate with law enforcement to maintain peace and order.