In protest of a violent attack on leaders and activists of the National Citizen Party (NCP) in Gopalganj, members of the NCP and the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement organized a road blockade and demonstration in Manikganj. The protest took place around 6 p.m. on Wednesday (July 16) at Zakir area of the Dhaka-Aricha Highway in Sadar Upazila, where over a hundred demonstrators participated.

As the protest escalated, vehicular movement on the highway was halted for nearly 20 minutes, causing significant traffic congestion on both sides. The demonstrators alleged that the attackers responsible for the assault on the peaceful NCP rally in Gopalganj had yet to be arrested.

Demanding swift justice and an impartial investigation, protesters stated that they had been pushed to the edge and were compelled to take to the streets. They warned that if justice is not served, the movement will expand nationwide.

Jahidur Rahman Talukder, chief coordinator of the NCP’s Manikganj district committee, claimed the attack was premeditated and that several members were still missing. He warned of launching a large-scale movement if the authorities failed to take prompt action.

The blockade was eventually lifted following assurances from the local administration, and traffic flow on the highway was restored to normal.