Massive unrest erupted in Gopalganj after National Citizens’ Party (NCP) leader Hasnat Abdullah allegedly chanted “Down with Mujibism” (“Mujibbad Murdabad”) during a political program, sparking widespread anger. As outraged citizens flooded the streets in protest, the army opened fire to control the situation, killing at least four civilians, according to multiple confirmed sources.
The incident occurred Wednesday afternoon during NCP’s central program, the “July March,” held at Gopalganj Municipal Park. The alleged provocative chant by Hasnat Abdullah — made in the birthplace of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman — quickly triggered an emotional backlash across the town. Awami League supporters, members of the Chhatra League and Jubo League, along with the general public, took to the streets in outrage.
Protesters marched from various areas including Gandhiyashur, Ulpur, Gopalganj Chourasta, and the Old Bus Stand towards the rally site. As tensions escalated and clashes broke out, the army was deployed to restore order.
Eyewitnesses reported that the soldiers used excessive force and opened live fire on the protesters, leading to the deaths of at least four unarmed civilians on the spot.
NCP leader Hasnat Abdullah and other central leaders became trapped at the rally site and were unable to leave the area. Joint forces have launched raids in several parts of the city. Law enforcement authorities have said that security has been tightened throughout Gopalganj.
Earlier that morning, clashes between NCP activists and Awami League supporters resulted in scuffles with police, gunfire, vandalism of vehicles, and an attack on the motorcade of the Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO). In retaliation, Chhatra League activists set a police vehicle on fire.
Injured police officers include Gopinathpur Outpost Officer-in-Charge Ahmed Biswas, and constables Kawser and Minhaj. All three were admitted to Gopalganj 250-bed General Hospital.
Gopalganj Superintendent of Police Md. Mizanur Rahman stated that army and joint forces were working to bring the situation under control. He declined to comment on the number of fatalities, saying that a full investigation would reveal further details.
