Abrar condemns attacks on Nalanda, Chhayanaut, Udichi and media outlets

Education Adviser Professor Dr CR Abrar has strongly condemned and protested against the recent attacks and acts of arson targeting cultural institutions, media establishments and journalists, including Chhayanaut, Udichi, The Daily Star and Prothom Alo and the harassment of New Age Editor Nurul Kabir.

He made the remarks in a statement issued on Saturday afternoon, December 20.

In the statement, the education adviser said that while the entire nation is mourning the tragic martyrdom of Sharif Osman Hadi, certain extremist and irresponsible groups are exploiting the situation to create anarchy and lawlessness in different parts of the country.

“These groups attacked the premises of Chhayanaut, a long-standing cultural institution of Bangladesh, and set parts of it on fire, destroying musical instruments and educational materials,” Abrar said. He added that Nalanda School, which operates from the same building under Chhayanaut, was also damaged in the attack.

“I strongly condemn this incident. At the same time, I also condemn the attack and arson on the office of the cultural organisation Udichi,” he said.

Expressing grave concern over attacks on the media and journalists, the adviser said, “I strongly condemn the attacks on the offices of two national dailies – Prothom Alo and The Daily Star – and the despicable act of humiliating veteran journalist and New Age Editor Nurul Kabir.”

In his statement, Abrar warned that such acts by vested quarters are not only attempts to tarnish the spirit of the July Movement, but also pose a serious threat by emboldening conspiracies of anti-Bangladesh and fascist forces.