Is NCP’s Cocktail Drama Staged to Grab Political Attention?

Staff Reporter

Two consecutive cocktail explosions occurred today at noon during NCP’s July program at Shahbagh intersection in the capital. While the party blamed “miscreants” for the incident, political circles have begun buzzing with counter-allegations and speculations.

NCP sources reported that while party activists were carrying out their program at Shahbagh intersection on Thursday, two consecutive explosions were suddenly heard. Though no casualties were reported, a panic-stricken atmosphere was created. The party claimed it was a premeditated attack aimed at terrorizing their political activities.

Additionally, NCP alleged that an explosion occurred last night near a procession vehicle parked in front of their central office. Earlier, the party had accused unidentified assailants of hurling cocktails targeting NCP Member Secretary Akhtar Hossain at the same location a few days ago.

However, rival political forces suspect a “political drama” behind these incidents.

Several top BNP leaders, speaking anonymously, suggested that NCP might be staging these events to amplify their political relevance and gain media spotlight, calling the circumstances suspicious. No official statement from the party has been issued yet.

Previously, NCP had accused BNP activists of throwing cocktails near their Banglamotor office, linking the incident to clashes between Chhatra Dal and NCP at Dhaka University. Chhatra Dal, however, dismissed it as NCP’s theatrics.

Similar allegations came from Awami League. A joint general secretary of the party remarked, “There is no political vacuum in the country. NCP hasn’t emerged as a significant force yet. They are orchestrating these explosions to gain political mileage.”

Meanwhile, NCP’s recent activities hint at more alarming developments.

During yesterday’s siege of Patiya Police Station, NCP activists were seen openly assembling petrol bombs on the streets. Photos and videos of this circulated on social media, drawing sharp criticism. Some even interpreted these images as displays of strength to intimidate rivals.

In a statement, NCP Member Secretary Akhtar Hossain said, “A certain faction, threatened by our street movements, is attacking us systematically. Let us be clear—the people’s movement cannot be suppressed.”

The OC of Shahbagh Police Station stated, “We rushed to the scene upon receiving reports of explosions. Preliminary evidence confirms two cocktail blasts. Investigations are ongoing—we can’t blame anyone yet.”

Political analysts believe such “explosions” in the current tense climate are not only escalating fear but also muddying the political landscape further.

Whether NCP is genuinely under attack or orchestrating a strategic political stunt may only become clear after investigations. Regardless, fresh debates have already ignited in the political arena.