Scuffle breaks out at Shahbagh protest demanding justice for attacks on bauls, Abul Sarkar's release
Protesters accused 'July Mancha' supporters of attacking them, but they denied the allegation.
A protest rally demanding the unconditional release of Baul artiste Abul Sarker and justice for recent attacks on Baul musicians was reportedly obstructed and attacked in the capital's Shahbagh this afternoon (28 November), resulting in a scuffle between July Mancha activists and participants of the rally.
According to witnesses, several Baul artists, cultural activists, and rights campaigners gathered in front of the National Museum to express solidarity with Bauls at a programme titled 'Gaaner Atornad', organised by Sampriti Jatra.
During the event, a group of individuals under the banner of 'July Mancha' allegedly attacked the participants, vandalised banners and engaged in scuffles, triggering chaos and briefly disrupting the programme. Despite the obstruction, organisers continued the event.
Keep updated, follow The Business Standard's Google news channel
Speaking to the Business Standard, Mozammel Haque, president of the Dhaka University unit of the Samajtantrik Chhatra Front (Marxist), said, "Activists led by July Mancha convener Ariful Islam Talukder carried out the attack, leaving several protesters with minor injuries."
"We saw the Awami League behave this way in the past -- attacking dissenting voices. Even after the July Uprising, these assaults on differing opinions continue," he added.
However, denying the allegations, July Mancha Member Secretary Sakib Hossain said, "We were heading toward Raju Memorial Sculpture for a pre-scheduled rally demanding punishment for those who insult religion and for protecting national values.
"On the way, we saw a concert demanding Abul Sarker's release. Some of our members said they oppose this demand. Having the demand for his release displayed on banners is objectionable."
He added, "We did not attack anyone. They attacked us. I reject this attempt to hold July Mancha responsible through a media trial."
When asked about the incident, Shahbagh Police Station Officer-in-Charge Khalid Mansur told TBS, "I've heard there was some scuffling between two groups. However, we have not received any written complaint so far."
