Islamist Attacks on Mystic Singers Prompt Strong Condemnation from Bangladeshi Civil Society

Eminent Bangladeshi civil society figures have condemned recent Islamist attacks on mystic singers, citing a rise in religious extremism since the government change. The statement highlights the ongoing threat to cultural practices and public sentiment.

Several prominent figures in Bangladesh's civil society have criticised the arrest of a baul singer, citing concerns over rising religious tensions. They argue that religious conflict has intensified following the removal of Sheikh Hasina's government. A statement signed by 250 notable citizens highlighted a surge in religious extremism since the Awami League regime was overthrown in July 2024.

Religious Extremism and Cultural Attacks

The statement accused a specific group of acting as Islam's sole representative, launching a nationwide purge. This group has reportedly demolished over 200 shrines and labelled many as apostates. They have also disrupted cultural events and harassed individuals over their appearance and beliefs. The signatories, including academics like Professor Anu Mohammad and Prof Salimullah Khan, criticised law enforcement for failing to curb mob violence.

Rights group Ain o Salish Kendra (ASK) expressed deep concern over attacks on Sarkar's followers after his arrest. Transparency International's Bangladesh chapter noted a troubling rise in hostility towards religious harmony. Poet and activist Farhad Mazhar warned of emerging religious fascism in Bangladesh during a protest rally in the capital.

Arrest and Subsequent Violence

Abul Sarkar, a popular baul singer, was arrested by the detective branch of the police at a music show in Madaripur. He faced charges of inciting violence and offending religious sentiments. Following his arrest, Islamists under the Tawhidi Janata banner attacked fellow singers during a rally for Sarkar's release, injuring four people near Dhaka.

Bauls, known for their liberal worldview, have existed in Bangladesh longer than puritan movements like Tawhidi Janata. Left-leaning student groups and cultural activists held torch marches in Dhaka and Jahangirnagar University to condemn the attacks on singers. Baul singers also protested outside Dhaka's National Press Club against Sarkar's arrest.

Government Response and Public Reaction

Since last year, mobs under Tawhidi Janata have disrupted cultural gatherings and destroyed shrines of Muslim Sufi saints who preached moderate Islam. Lawyer Sara Hossain questioned why such cases are accepted easily and emphasised the importance of freedom of expression. She criticised the government's stance on violence against others.

Cultural affairs adviser Mostofa Sarwar Farooki stated that the Ministry of Home Affairs is handling this sensitive issue responsibly. However, he acknowledged that baul repression isn't new, citing past attacks on them under various governments, including the Awami League era. Yunus's press secretary Shafiqul Alam condemned the attack and said efforts are underway to identify those responsible.

The Business Standard newspaper commented that condemnation without action is ineffective, especially when attackers act publicly with impunity. It criticised Farooki's statement as inadequate for a government promising to rectify Awami League's wrongs. The situation remains tense as calls for justice continue amidst ongoing religious strife in Bangladesh.

With inputs from PTI