GOPALGANJ, July 16, (V7N) – Abdul Hannan Masud, Senior Joint Chief Coordinator of the National Citizens Party (NCP), has issued a sharp warning to the government following violent attacks on NCP leaders and activists during their July March rally in Gopalganj.

In a post from his verified Facebook account at around 4:30 PM Wednesday, Masud expressed deep anger over the assault, stating:

“You will have to pay a heavy price for this — the government too. They cannot provide security to national leaders in a single district, and they dream of holding elections? First, control the country!”

The NCP’s rally in Gopalganj earlier in the day descended into violence when activists of the banned Chhatra League and Awami League allegedly launched coordinated attacks. Protesters ambushed NCP supporters, vandalized the stage and chairs, and set fire to various rally installations.

As central leaders including Nahid Islam, Hasnat Abdullah, and Sarjis Alam were leaving the rally venue, a group of armed men surrounded their convoy. The police and army attempted to disperse the attackers using sound grenades and blank bullets, allowing NCP leaders to flee the scene.

Earlier in the day, trees were cut down and roads blocked by AL and Chhatra League activists in Gandhiyashur area, halting the Ghonapara-Tekerhat regional road. The UNO convoy was also reportedly attacked in the chaos. A police vehicle was torched in Ulpur, leaving several officers injured.

The overall security situation in Gopalganj has deteriorated rapidly, prompting the local administration to impose Section 144 and deploy BGB, army, and additional police forces to restore order.

Masud’s post adds to growing political tensions nationwide, especially following the announcement of countrywide blockades by the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement in solidarity with the NCP.

Further responses from the interim government and law enforcement agencies are awaited.

END/RH/AJ