Crude bomb explodes near venue of Sarjis Alam's NCP event in Bogura
NCP leaders allege police negligence
A crude bomb exploded outside the venue of a programme attended by Sarjis Alam, chief organiser (North) of the National Citizen Party (NCP), in Bogura this afternoon (20 October).
The explosion occurred around 3:30pm in front of the District Council Office, shortly before the start of NCP's district coordination meeting inside the council auditorium at 4pm, where Sarjis Alam was present.
Confirming the incident, Bogura Additional Superintendent of Police (Crime) Hossain Mohammad Raihan said, "Police rushed to the spot immediately. No casualties have been reported so far. The matter is being taken seriously."
Speaking to reporters, Sarjis said, "We are witnessing the arrogance of fascists and their collaborators who are conspiring against Bangladesh. When a crude bomb can explode outside an auditorium where an internal organisational meeting is being held, it raises serious concerns about whether those responsible for ensuring the country's security are being as active as they should be. If these fascist forces can be so bold now, they may try to create instability ahead of the elections."
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Earlier around 3pm, Sarjis inaugurated the NCP's temporary office near Altafunnesa playground.
Sultan Mahmud, a coordination member of NCP's Bogura district unit, said, "We had a scheduled coordination meeting attended by Sarjis Alam, Sakib Mahdi, and other senior leaders.
"After finishing our press conference at Altafunnesa playground and reaching the district council premises, some miscreants threw two crude bombs from a four-storey building. One of them exploded. Fortunately, everyone is safe."
Another district coordination member, Shawkat Imran, alleged that police failed to ensure adequate security for their leaders.
"Police arrived only after the incident. We believe this reflects their negligence. No preventive measures were taken. Though Awami League leaders may have fled, their allies and agents remain active in the country. Those responsible for rehabilitating them are behind this attack," he said.
