Bangladesh Blast Hits NCP Student Rally Near Dhaka

Three people were injured Sunday when an explosive device went off at a student-led Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) rally on the outskirts of Dhaka, local reports said. The injured were taken to a nearby hospital. Police said they were reviewing security footage and examining the device. No group claimed responsibility.

The NCP draws much of its support from university campuses. It has been a vocal critic of the interim government's pace of electoral reforms since the 2024 student movement toppled the previous administration. Sunday's rally was part of a series of events demanding a faster timeline for parliamentary elections.

Bangladesh's security forces have been on alert for political violence as the country approaches a promised election window. The interim government, led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, has pledged to hold elections by late 2026 or early 2027. Student groups have accused the administration of dragging its feet.

"This is an attempt to silence student voices," an NCP spokesperson said, speaking on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to brief the media. The party called for a full investigation and urged supporters to remain peaceful.

Violence at political rallies has been relatively contained since the 2024 transition. Sporadic incidents have occurred. Sunday's blast was the first reported attack on a student-led political event in months.

Police cordoned off the area and said they were questioning witnesses. No arrests have been made.