The Ain o Salish Kendra (ASK) has expressed deep concern over the incident in Gopalganj where four people were killed during a clash at a National Citizens’ Party (NCP) rally. The organization stated that protecting citizens’ lives is a fundamental responsibility of the state, which was grossly violated in this case.
In a statement sent to the media on Thursday, ASK’s Senior Coordinator Abu Ahmed Faizul Kabir conveyed this concern.
According to the statement, on Wednesday (July 16), a pre-announced NCP rally at Gopalganj Municipal Park came under attack, allegedly by a local faction of the ruling Awami League. Following the attack, law enforcement reportedly used firearms, resulting in the deaths of Dipto Saha, Ramzan Kazi, Sohel Molla, and Iman. Several others were injured, with some still undergoing treatment for gunshot wounds in hospitals.
The statement emphasized that, under the Bangladeshi Constitution and international human rights treaties, every citizen has the fundamental right to express opinions and assemble peacefully. However, in this incident, those rights were suppressed. The use of live ammunition leading to deaths cannot be accepted in any civilized state.
ASK highlighted inconsistencies in the police’s statements and demanded an investigation. While the Inspector General of Police (IGP) claimed no lethal weapons were used, video footage circulating on social media clearly captured gunshots and firearms. ASK questioned: Who fired the shots then? Without a clear answer, public confusion, fear, and distrust in the administration will only grow, the organization warned.
ASK urged all parties involved in the incident to remain calm and restrained. It particularly called on law enforcement agencies to ensure that innocent civilians are not subjected to harassment or violence in such tense situations, and that no further human rights violations occur.
According to ASK, the government cannot avoid responsibility in this incident. The organization demanded the immediate formation of an independent, impartial, and comprehensive investigation committee to thoroughly examine the events leading to the deaths. It stressed the need to identify those who opened fire and carried out the attacks, as well as to probe any negligence on the part of authorities responsible for ensuring public safety.
Additionally, ASK urged that the injured receive proper medical care, and that the families of the deceased be compensated and supported appropriately.
