A large-scale demonstration and human chain were held outside the National Parliament building on Friday afternoon, demanding the unconditional release of renowned Baul singer Abul Sarkar. The event was organised by the civic platform ‘Sampriti Jatra’ and attracted a diverse range of participants, including members of Baul and Sufi groups, cultural organisations, social activists, and political figures.
Participants carried placards and banners with slogans such as “Free Abul Sarkar,” “Protect Music, Knowledge, and Devotion,” “Preserve Shrines and Dargahs,” and “One Day the World Will Belong to the Bauls.” The slogans highlighted widespread concerns about the treatment of cultural activists and the increasing pressures on traditional performers in Bangladesh.
Speaking at the demonstration, Rafiqul Islam, Chairman of the Bangladesh Sufi Awakening Council, said, “Sufi and Baul artists have always played a leading role in movements against inequality in this country. The arrest of Abul Sarkar appears to be a deliberate act. If he is not released immediately, a larger movement will be launched.” Jamshed Anwar, General Secretary of the Bangladesh Udichi Artists’ Association, echoed the sentiment, adding, “Attacking or arresting artists violates basic human rights, and it will not be tolerated.”
Mēghmallār Bosu, President of a faction of the Dhaka University Student Union, criticised the government’s contradictory stance, noting, “On one hand, it celebrates Lalon’s legacy, while on the other, it persecutes Bauls and Fakirs. Everyone must unite to resist fascism.” Additionally, Maulana Nure Alam Saeed, President of Ahle Sunnat Jamaat, issued a three-day ultimatum for Sarkar’s release, warning that all Baul and Fakir communities would take to the streets if their demand is not met. Rafik Sarkar, General Secretary of the Baul Association, said that over two million Bauls and Fakirs are prepared to protest.
The human chain concluded with a peaceful procession, beginning at the south plaza of the Parliament, circling the Khejurbagan intersection, and returning to the starting point. Participants reiterated their demand for the immediate release of Abul Sarkar, as well as an end to discrimination and harassment against cultural practitioners.
