The government has formally responded to two key questions raised by journalist and human rights advocate David Bergman regarding the deaths in violent clashes in Gopalganj on July 16.
In a statement issued via the verified Facebook page of Shafiqul Alam, Press Secretary to the Chief Adviser, the government announced the formation of a formal investigative committee. The committee has been instructed to carry out a thorough probe into the incident and submit its report to the Chief Adviser’s Office within two weeks.
According to the statement, the committee is tasked with determining the full facts of the incident, identifying those responsible, and ensuring accountability. Officials expressed confidence that the process will help establish the truth and deliver justice to the victims’ families.
The statement also addressed concerns over the lack of post-mortem examinations. It confirmed that the families of the four deceased forcibly removed the bodies from Gopalganj General Hospital before autopsies could be performed, disrupting standard legal and medical procedures.
Authorities have said that Gopalganj Police are preparing to seek a court order this Sunday to exhume three of the bodies for forensic examination. Unfortunately, the body of one Hindu victim was cremated by his family shortly after the incident, making a post-mortem no longer possible.
The government acknowledged this as a serious procedural breach and noted that the matter is under review. Measures will be introduced to prevent similar disruptions in future cases.
The government reiterated its commitment to transparency, justice, and the rule of law as the investigation continues.