Two Baul musicians were injured in Thakurgaon on Wednesday while preparing for a human chain to demand justice for attacks on Baul artists in Manikganj and the release of Baul musician Abul Sarker. The incident occurred near the city court premises, local witnesses reported.
According to eyewitnesses, the Baul performers had gathered at Chourasta Square under the banner “Unity for Harmony, Thakurgaon” to organise the peaceful demonstration. However, before the event could commence, around 1:30 pm, a group of 40 to 50 young men allegedly affiliated with the so-called “Tawhidi Janta” suddenly confronted two musicians, identified as Shamsul Chishti from Panchbibi, Joypurhat, and Mokles Pagla from Hothapara, Thakurgaon. The group reportedly attacked them violently.
Thakurgaon Sadar Police Officer-in-Charge Sarwar Alam Khan stated that the police had deployed additional personnel in anticipation of the protest. Despite these precautions, the Baul musicians were assaulted before the human chain could begin. The injured performers have been advised to file written complaints, after which legal action will be pursued.
Rejwanul Haque, General Secretary of the Thakurgaon branch of Udichi Shilpi Goshti, condemned the attack. “Every individual has the right to express their views peacefully. It is deeply regrettable that the Baul artists, who were assembling for a lawful demonstration, were subjected to such violence,” he said.
Observers note that this incident highlights the vulnerability of cultural practitioners in the region and the challenges they face in exercising their right to peaceful assembly. The attack also reflects the growing tension between cultural groups and certain local political factions, underscoring the need for stronger protection of artistic freedom in Bangladesh.