Cultural ministry faces backlash from writers, publishers over postponing Ekushey Book Fair

The Ministry of Cultural Affairs is facing criticism for causing "extreme disorder" in organising national events after changing the dates of the Amar Ekushey Book Fair.

The writer-publisher-cultural activist group, Ekushey Boimela Sangram Parishad, expressed strong dissatisfaction, saying the ministry's decision is "not only short-sighted but also shows a serious disregard for national history, tradition, and the feelings of the people."

Speaking at a press conference this afternoon at the Kobi Al Mahmud Writers' Corner in Bangla Academy, the parishad's leaders highlighted the lack of consultation in the ministry's decision-making process. "Before changing the dates of a major cultural event like the Amar Ekushey Book Fair, there was no discussion with publishers, writers, readers, or cultural workers," the parishad said. "This has created confusion and uncertainty around a historic festival of the people."

The statement added, "The Ministry of Cultural Affairs has reduced national events and other programs to a makeshift, disorganised state. Their methods, intentions, and scheduling have already raised numerous questions among the public."

In response, the organisation announced it would hold a symbolic one-day Ekushey Book Fair on 1 February at the Bangla Academy grounds, reaffirming its commitment to the spirit of Ekushey and the Liberation War.

Sayeed Bari, joint convener of the parishad, said, "There is no valid reason to postpone the book fair from 1 February. Elections are conducted all over the world, and yet everything else continues as it should. Using the election as an excuse to suspend a national festival is unacceptable."

Publisher Delwar Hossain added, "The joyous atmosphere that coincided with the spring festival will not happen this year. The new date of the 20th seems like a deliberate disregard for Bengali traditions."

The parishad further criticised the rationale of national elections and security for delaying the fair, noting that in the past, the book fair has been organised even during elections and the month of Ramadan. "If necessary, it could be closed on specific days, but postponing the entire event contradicts the spirit of Ekushey," the leaders said.

The press conference also raised concerns over the role of the ministry's adviser. Parishad leaders claimed that since taking office, the adviser has not engaged in dialogue with cultural organisations and workers who were at the forefront of anti-fascist movements, observing "a deliberate tendency to avoid them."