The interim government has formed a six-member commission of inquiry to investigate the July 16 violence over a rally organised by the National Citizen Party in Gopalganj.
The decision was made following the recommendations of an earlier investigation committee formed after the violence, said a press release issued by the chief adviser鈥檚 press wing on Thursday.
The July 16 clashes between the activists of the Awami League and the members of law enforcement and security agencies left at least five people dead and scores injured.
The commission, led by former justice and freedom fighter Md Abu Tariq, has been tasked with submitting a report containing findings and recommendations within three weeks, the CA鈥檚 press wing release said.
The commission was formed under Section 3 of the Commissions of Inquiry Act, 1956, following the July 16 incident that saw widespread unrest, attacks on public installations, and a breakdown in law and order in the district.
Other members of the commission are Public Security Division additional secretary Md Mahabubur Rahman, Law and Justice Department鈥檚 additional secretary and senior district and sessions judge Md Saiful Islam, 21st Infantry Brigade commander Brigadier General Sahidur Rahman Osmani, additional inspector general of police and Central Police Hospital director Sarder Nurul Amin, Dhaka University鈥檚 Peace and Conflict Studies department chairman Sazzad Siddiqui.
The commission has been tasked with investigating the causes behind the violence, identifying those responsible for the violence, and recommending legal and administrative action.
It will also assess attacks on public properties, including the district jail, and suggest measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.
The commission may appoint additional members if necessary. The home ministry鈥檚 Public Security Division will provide the administrative support, resources, and assistance from government officials.
The release said that the preliminary findings of the earlier probe committee indicated that the NCP rally was attacked by the supporters of Bangladesh Chhatra League, now a banned organisation, and the Bangladesh Awami League, the activities of which are now banned.
In response, the local administration imposed section 144, restricting public gatherings, and later a full curfew.
The police have so far filed 10 cases in connection with the events of July 16.
Around 10,000 Awami League leaders and activists have been accused in the cases. As of now, the authorities have arrested more than 300 individuals for their suspected involvement in the violence.
