Bangladesh artistes protest arrest of Baul singer Abul Sarkar, condemn attack on supporters

DHAKA: Several singers and artistes in Bangladesh staged a protest in Dhaka on Monday, condemning the arrest of renowned Baul singer Abul Sarkar and the subsequent attack on artists in Manikganj district, local media reported.

The protest rally organized under the banner 'Sadhuguru Bhakta and Oli-Awlia Ashekan Parishad' in front of Jatiya Press Club in the capital, demanded the immediate release of Sarkar and the arrest of those responsible for the attack on his followers.

Abul Sarkar, president of the Bangladesh Baul Samity, was taken into custody on November 20 in Madaripur district over allegations of hurting religious sentiments, Bangladesh's leading newspaper, The Daily Star, reported.

Earlier on Sunday, tensions flared in Manikganj as followers of Baul artist Sarkar were attacked during demo nstrations over his recent arrest. Reports suggest that a separate group under the banner of 'All-Section Alem-Ulama and Towhidi Janata of Manikganj District' held a simultaneous protest march calling for Sarkar's punishment.

Citing witnesses, leading Bangladeshi daily Dhaka Tribune reported that members of the Towhidi Janata attacked Baul supporters with sticks and bricks, causing panic among the small group advocating for Sarkar.

The violence left four people injured and raised concerns about the increasing vulnerability of Baul practitioners, who represent one of Bangladesh's oldest and most distinctive cultural traditions.

Three Baul supporters, including Abdul Alim, Ariful Islam and Zahirul Islam, were injured during the incident.

As the confrontation intensified, another man also reportedly sustained injuries. All four injured were taken to Manikganj District Sadar Hospital, where doctors confirmed that several required stitches for serious head injuries.

Confirming the incident, Manikganj Additional Superintendent of Police (Crime and Operations) Md Abdullah Al Mamun said, "One group was demanding his punishment, another demanding his release. A section of the Towhidi Janata attacked the supporters. We intervened immediately."

He further mentioned that legal proceedings have been initiated. (IANS)

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