A case has been filed against 15 named and 35-40 unnamed leaders and activists of Awami League and its associate bodies in Khulna on charges of conspiring against the government and carrying out anti-state activities.

Sub-Inspector Tapan Kumar Pal of Sadar Police Station filed the case on Thursday night, said its Inspector (Investigation) Md Mizanur Rahman.

The accused include Khulna district Jubo League Office Secretary Asaduzzaman Khan Riaz and Joint General Secretary of Khulna city unit of banned Bangladesh Chhatra League (BCL) Tayeful Islam Taj. The other named accused are Ranbir Baroi Sajal, Anup Sarkar, Mridul, Prosenjit, Md Shahidul Islam, Rahat Ali Morol, Anik Hasan Parvez, Gautam Sarkar Kakon, Asafur Dhali, Gopal Chandra Saha, Md Akhter Sikder, Monirul Islam Moni and Md Rafiqul Islam Pintu.

According to the case statement, the accused allegedly gathered on Wednesday between 4:45am and 5:55am in front of Islami Bank Hospital near Tare Pukur in the city.

They reportedly threw bricks and vandalise vehicles in a bid to topple the democratic government, disrupt public order and sever communication between Khulna and other districts.

It was also alleged that they shouted slogans supporting the banned BCL and Awami League, which faces a ban on its activities, creating panic among people.

The accused fled the scene before police arrived after receiving information.

Later, police identified the suspects analysing CCTV footage and through local information.

It was further alleged the group was involved in secret meetings, collecting funds, recruiting members to reorganise banned organisations, and engaging in activities aimed at destabilising law and order.

Inspector Mizanur Rahman said police operations were ongoing to arrest the accused.