Curfew underway for second day in Gopalganj after violent clashes

A curfew is underway for the second consecutive day in Gopalganj as tensions remain high following violent clashes centring the NCP's rally on 16 July.

Authorities imposed the curfew in phases since Wednesday. 

Today, (18 July), a three-hour break was given from 11am to 2pm. However, an indefinite curfew will be resumed across the district from 2pm onwards.

Shops in the city have remained closed since morning, and streets are largely deserted. 

Emergency services remain operational, and a limited number of vehicles are seen plying the main roads. Despite the restrictions, there was little visible presence of law enforcement personnel in the city during the morning hours.

So far, 45 people have been detained by the joint forces in connection with the unrest.

The violence erupted on 16 July when members and supporters of the banned Awami League and its student wing, the Chhatra League, attacked and vandalised the NCP's "March to Gopalganj" programme.

According to police sources, a police vehicle was torched, and several officers were physically assaulted during the incident. 

The situation worsened when NCP activists returning from the rally were reportedly ambushed by Chhatra League members, leading to a prolonged and intense clash with law enforcement. Witnesses described the scene as a "war zone."

In response, both police and army personnel opened fire on the attackers in a bid to restore control, leaving 4 dead. 

Last night (17 July), Gopalganj police inspector Ahmed Ali filed a case naming 75 individuals, including District Chhatra League President Newton Molla and General Secretary Ataur Pial, as accused. The case also includes 450 to 500 unnamed individuals.