A cocktail exploded and the stage was vandalized at National Citizen Party (NCP) rally in Gopalganj on Wednesday afternoon, creating panic among attendees.
The explosion occurred shortly after 1:30 PM, just as NCP leaders and activists were gathering for a scheduled program. According to eyewitnesses, the blast took place a short distance from the rally venue. No injuries or fatalities have been reported so far.
Law enforcement officials quickly cordoned off the area and launched an investigation. Seven individuals have been detained in connection with the incident, though their identities and affiliations have not yet been disclosed.
Eyewitnesses claim that the attackers, reportedly chanting “Joy Bangla,” were members of the banned student wing, Chhatra League. The group allegedly stormed the rally grounds ahead of the event and fled shortly after.
Despite the disruption, the public gathering eventually commenced at around 2:00 PM with the arrival of NCP’s central leadership. The event was part of the party’s ongoing “July March to Rebuild the Nation” campaign, which includes rallies across Gopalganj, Madaripur, and Shariatpur.
The situation in Gopalganj remained tense throughout the day, especially after a police vehicle was reportedly set on fire the night before. In the city center, streets were noticeably less busy than usual, with many shops remaining closed and pedestrian movement limited.
The rally was initially scheduled to begin at 10:00 AM at Gopalganj Municipal Park but was delayed due to the early disturbances. Local NCP leaders had announced a revised time of 12:00 PM, stating that the central leadership was en route from Barishal.
According to party sources, key figures expected to address the rally included NCP Convenor Nahid Islam, Member Secretary Akhtar Hossain, Chief Organizer (South) Hasnat Abdullah, Chief Organizer (North) Sarjis Alam, Chief Coordinator Nasir Uddin Patwari, as well as central leaders Samanta Sharmin, Dr. Tasnim Zara, and Nahida Sarwar Nibas.
Speaking anonymously, a local Awami League supporter reflected on the growing political momentum among youth. “I’ve supported the Awami League all my life, but my children joined the protests. We too were once student activists—I understand their patriotism. These young people will go far,” he said. “But since the fall of the Awami League, business in Gopalganj hasn’t been the same. My transport business is now running at half capacity.”
As the political landscape continues to shift, observers note that the presence of new movements like the NCP may signal deeper transformations ahead of upcoming elections.