How do security analysts view the violence in Gopalganj?

The National Citizens Party (NCP) had announced a program in advance, but the attacks, clashes, and violence in Gopalganj could not be prevented. The central leaders of the NCP have blamed the failure of the law enforcement agencies. On the other hand, there have been mixed reactions as to why the clashes could not be avoided despite intelligence information. Security analysts are questioning whether there was a third party behind the incident, in addition to the banned Chhatra League and Awami League. On July 16, Gopalganj turned into a battlefield due to attacks and clashes between Awami League supporters and banned Chhatra League supporters who had fallen victim to the NCP program. Clashes broke out with the police and the army. Five people died. Many people were injured. Public life in Gopalganj has not yet fully returned to normal. In such a situation, the NCP leaders were somehow brought out. The next day, the Home Affairs Advisor spoke out. He said that there was already a security concern, and there was intelligence information about this. Home Affairs Advisor Lieutenant General (Retd.) Md. Jahangir Alam Chowdhury said, “There was intelligence information about the security threat, but there was no information that it would be so large.” In addition, law enforcement agencies reported that Awami League supporters and activists of the banned Chhatra League came from outside Gopalganj and took up positions in Gopalganj in advance. Gopalganj Deputy Commissioner Muhammad Kamruzzaman said, “Leaders and activists of Awami League affiliates also came to Gopalganj from outside. We have intelligence information that they are still staying in various places in Gopalganj.” So much preparation, so much security. Police patrols in the district since the previous day. Yet how did the troublemakers come from outside? Despite having intelligence information, why did the administration fail to provide security to the rally site? On what basis was the police clearance given? Security analysts say that an investigation should be conducted to find out the reason for this failure. Security analyst Dr. Touhidul Haque said, “If there is a suspicion, if the government knows in advance; knowing the Home Affairs Advisor means that the government knows. So how did the government give that clearance? There needs to be an impartial investigation into whether there is any political fuel or any third-party contact.” Security experts are reluctant to call the entire police department a complete failure in the Gopalganj incident. Stating that this is only the failure of the administration in charge there on the day of the clash, he said, “We must learn from this incident and be prepared for the next national elections.” This security analyst advised the parties to be more aware and coordinate with the law enforcement agencies before holding political programs.