The National Citizen Party (NCP) has issued a 24-hour ultimatum to the government following a deadly attack on its leaders and supporters during a rally in Gopalganj on Tuesday.
Four people were reported dead and dozens injured as violence broke out in the area. NCP claims the attack was carried out by activists of the banned Awami League and its student wing, Chhatra League.
At a press conference in Khulna on Wednesday evening, NCP Convenor Nahid Islam demanded immediate arrests.
“Those who attacked our leaders, tried to kill them, and destroyed our rally stage must be arrested within the next 24 hours,” Nahid said. “Investigations must begin without delay to ensure justice.”
Nahid criticized the police for failing to act.
“We always seek clearance before visiting any district. Gopalganj was no exception,” he said. “Still, the police response was weak. They should have acted more responsibly.”
Other central leaders, including Akhtar Hossain, Sarjis Alam, Hasnat Abdullah, and Dr Tasnim Jara, were present. Local party workers also attended the event.
According to Nahid, the attack in Gopalganj was “premeditated.” He said armed men targeted the NCP rally with the intention to kill.
“Three of our members were injured. Six vehicles were destroyed. The administration’s inaction raises serious questions,” he said.
He described the assault as “militant-style” and announced nationwide protest marches to begin on Thursday.
Due to the situation, NCP rallies in Madaripur and Shariatpur were called off. A planned march through Faridpur will continue.
After the attack, NCP leaders scattered. Some fled to the Khulna Circuit House, others to nearby hotels. By the afternoon, the army had to get them out of town in armored trucks.
All day, the town was in turmoil as clashes broke out between protesters and police. Buildings were torched. In response, the government has imposed a citywide curfew, in effect until Wednesday evening.
Gopalganj Deputy Commissioner Muhammad Kamruzzaman said law enforcement has regained control. Army troops, police, and four units of Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) have been deployed across the city.
The interim government issued a statement condemning the violence.
“The use of force in Gopalganj is utterly indefensible,” it said. “Let it be made absolutely clear—violence has no place in our nation. Justice must and will prevail.”
Officials called the attack on young demonstrators a “shameful violation” of basic rights.
There have been no confirmed arrests yet. Protesters warn the demonstrations will go on if justice is delayed.
