According to sources, AL leaders and activists thronged to Aswani Kumar Hall premises after Asar prayers for the service, but supporters of Sramik Dal, workers' front of the ruling BNP, prevented AL adherents to hold their pre-scheduled programme.

A large police contingent deployed in the area also chased the opposition leaders away, sources added.

AL supporters moved to Khulna AL office at Shahid Sohel Square after the incident and then to Sadar Road to perform the religious rite, but police again blocked their way and forced them to leave the areas, locals said.

Local AL leaders condemned such activities of police and ruling party cadres at a press briefing in the evening.

Alleged ruling party activists also obstructed opposition leaders and supporters to hold similar programme at Harinathpur union of Hizla upazila in Khulna and ransacked local AL office.

Ivy, women affairs secretary of AL's central body, died early Tuesday following a three-day fight for life after she was critically wounded in the Saturday's grenade attack on AL rally in the capital.