GSTU Suspends Activities Amid Gopalganj Curfew and Clashes
Gopalganj Science and Technology University (GSTU) has announced a temporary closure of all academic activities, including classes and examinations, for Thursday, July 17, in light of the ongoing unrest and a government-imposed curfew in the city. The decision was officially announced through a notice from the office of the Vice-Chancellor at around 10:00 p.m. on Wednesday, July 16.
University authorities stated that “all classes and examinations will remain suspended tomorrow considering the deteriorating law and order situation in Gopalganj and to ensure the safety of the students.”
A senior official of the university remarked, “The situation across Gopalganj city is currently extremely concerning. Section 144 has been enforced throughout the city, and a curfew was formally implemented from the evening. Under such circumstances, it is imperative to suspend university operations to ensure student safety.”
Earlier in the day, four individuals were killed and many others, including police personnel, injured during a violent clash between the fallen Awami League's student wing, Chhatra League- which has been declared as a banned organisation and the National Citizen Party (NCP). The clash broke out following an attack during an NCP rally in Gopalganj.
The deceased have been identified as Dipto Saha (25) of Udayan Road in Gopalganj town, Ramjan Kazi (18) of Kotalipara, Sohel Rana (30) of Tungipara, and Imon (24) of Gopalganj Sadar. The information was confirmed by the Residential Medical Officer (RMO) of the District Sadar Hospital.
According to eyewitnesses, the violence erupted around noon near Gopalganj’s Poura Park, where NCP was holding a rally as part of its “July March” campaign. Chhatra League activists reportedly stormed the stage chanting “Joy Bangla,” vandalized sound equipment and chairs, and assaulted participants. Several crude bombs were also allegedly detonated by the attackers.
NCP leaders sought refuge at the office of the Superintendent of Police, while law enforcement attempted to regain control by firing blank rounds and deploying sound grenades. In retaliation, Chhatra League activists came under attack with bricks and stones, and several vehicles in their motorcade were vandalized.
As the situation intensified, the local administration imposed Section 144 across Gopalganj and declared a curfew from 8:00 p.m. on Wednesday until 6:00 p.m. Thursday, according to a statement from the Office of the Chief Adviser.
The NCP rally was organized as part of its “July March” program to demand state reform, justice for the July massacre, and the establishment of a discrimination-free Bangladesh.
