Ganatantrik Odhikar Committee demands speedy probe into Gopalganj incident, deaths of 4

Ganatantrik Odhikar Committee, a platform advocating democratic rights, has demanded a speedy and fair investigation into yesterday's attack on the NCP rally in Gopalganj.

"A prompt, impartial and transparent investigation into the 'terrorist attack' on the NCP rally must be conducted to identify and punish those responsible. At the same time, strict monitoring must be carried out to ensure that no trumped-up cases, arbitrary arrests or political harassment are resorted to in the name of investigation," the platform said in a statement today (17 July).

In addition, the rights body also called for an independent investigation into the deaths of four people, during clashes between local Awami League activists and law enforcers following the attack on an NCP rally in Goapalganj.

"A high-level independent investigation must be conducted into the deaths of four people in police firing in Gopalganj and those responsible must be held accountable," reads the statement.

While pressing for investigations into the incident, the platform also demanded that those responsible for all mob violence post-mass uprising as well as its instigators must be brought to justice.

In addition, it also demanded the immediate resignation of the home adviser in this connection. The platforms stated that they are deeply concerned by the state's approach after the incident in Gopalganj.

"While the government and police have been proactive in investigating the attack on the NCP rally, there has been no high-level investigation, accountability or even a minimal humanitarian response to the deaths of four citizens killed in police firing. This one-sided approach is not only a sign of state irresponsibility – it also conveys an appalling message about the dignity and security of civilian life," reads the statement 

The platform said it observed that the NCP has not taken a clear moral stand against the mob violence and violent incidents that have been prevailing in the country after last year's mass uprising.

Additionally, it also noted that the Gopalganj incident demonstrated the NCP's lack of political wisdom. Furthermore, the platform insisted that the process of constitutional and institutional reform be initiated without delay to ensure that law enforcement agencies are free from political interference.