At least two killed in attacks and clashes centering on NCP rally in Gopalganj

At least two people were killed and several others injured during attacks and clashes centering on a National Citizens’ Party (NCP) rally in Gopalganj on Wednesday, according to hospital and family sources.

The victims were identified as Dipto Saha, 25, from Gopalganj town, and Ramzan Kazi, 18, from Kotalipara, Prothom Alo reports.

Gopalganj General Hospital said three people with gunshot wounds were brought in dead. Two were identified by family, but the third’s identity could not be confirmed. Nine others with injuries were admitted and are undergoing surgery.

The Bangla-language daily reported that efforts to reach Gopalganj Superintendent of Police (SP) Md Mizanur Rahman for comment were unsuccessful while Deputy Commissioner Muhammad Kamruzzaman and Additional Deputy Commissioner Md Golam Kabir declined to comment.

According to family accounts, Dipto Saha was shot in the Chourangi area while on his way to his shop after lunch. Ramzan Kazi’s father claimed his son had no involvement in the violence and demanded accountability.

The violence occurred after an NCP rally at the Gopalganj municipal park. Authorities later imposed Section 144 to prevent further unrest.

Eyewitnesses said a group armed with sticks attacked NCP members after the rally ended. Police and military personnel reportedly used sound grenades and blank rounds to disperse the crowd. NCP members left the scene via alternate routes.

NCP Chief Coordinator Nasiruddin Patwari accused Awami League supporters of leading the attack and criticised law enforcement for inaction. He said the party had been assured of safety before the event.

Earlier, around 1:45pm, 200 to 300 people with sticks gathered near the rally site. Police near the stage withdrew to a nearby court compound, and NCP leaders and activists fled. NCP leaders and activists later alleged the attackers were Awami League supporters.

During the disruption, chairs were vandalised, and banners torn down.

Gopalganj SP Mizanur Rahman later visited the scene.

Following a joint chase by NCP members and police, the attackers fled.

By 2:05pm, senior NCP leaders had arrived and held the scheduled rally.

However, following the rally, clashes resumed as Awami League men launched attacks on NCP leaders and activists.