Govt orders swift arrests in Baul attack cases: Shafiqul

The Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary, Shafiqul Alam, announced on Thursday, November 27, that orders have been issued for the immediate arrest of those responsible for recent attacks on Baul communities in Manikganj and elsewhere in the country.

Speaking at a press conference held at the Foreign Service Academy on Bailey Road in Dhaka, Alam stated, “Those who attacked the Bauls have been ordered to be arrested without delay. The Manikganj police are acting in accordance with these instructions. Additionally, 84 operations are currently underway in other locations where attacks occurred. Results will be made public shortly.”

The statement follows a violent incident in Manikganj last Sunday, when members of the group ‘Tawhidi Janata’ attacked supporters of renowned Baul artist Abul Sarkar, accusing him of blasphemy. The confrontation led to a chase and clash, leaving four people injured – Baul artists Alim, Ariful, and Zahirul, as well as one individual from the Tawhidi Janata side.

Further unrest occurred on Wednesday afternoon in Thakurgaon, where a group ambushed Bauls gathered for a rally calling for the release of Abul Sarkar, who remains in custody. Police intervened and brought the situation under control.

The injured from the Manikganj attack are receiving treatment at a local hospital. Authorities have pledged to ensure the safety of the Baul community and uphold the rule of law.