Attack on Bauls in Manikganj by Tohidi Janta, 4 Injured

Manikganj town became tense following allegations of derogatory remarks about Islam and Allah by Baul artist Abul Kashem. Yesterday morning, Tohidi Janta held a protest march and assembly demanding Abul Kashem’s execution. Meanwhile, his followers prepared demonstrations and human chains for his release, which were disrupted by the Tohidi Janta’s attack. Three Baul artists and one member of Tohidi Janta were injured. The injured are Abdul Alim (25) from Shakrail village, Shibaloy Upazila; Ariful Islam (29) from Talebpur village, Singair; Jahirul Islam (32) from Kamarghona village, Harirampur; and Abdul Alim (27) from Borongakhola village, Sadar Upazila. The incident occurred around 10:30 am.

The police later rescued the injured and admitted them to Manikganj General Hospital. The city was gripped by a frightening situation. Tohidi Janta entered the town from Manikganj Bus Stand around 9 am with thousands of Ulema, holding a protest march. When Baul followers were positioned near the Stadium Mor area, over a hundred from the Tohidi Janta’s march chased the Bauls. During the chase, three Baul artists were seriously injured, and some jumped into a pond.

Tohidi Janta submitted a memorandum to the Deputy Commissioner demanding the death penalty for Abul Kashem and a halt to all anti-Islamic activities. They had previously held protest gatherings.

Kamal Hossain, Officer-in-Charge of Manikganj Sadar Police Station, said, “The Tohidi Janta’s march was peaceful until a few individuals suddenly chased the Bauls. The situation quickly went out of control, injuring three Baul artists. Legal action will be taken if a complaint is filed.”

It is noted that on 1 November, Abul Kashem, president of the Bangladesh Baul Samity, allegedly made derogatory remarks about Allah during a song performance in Jabra, Ghior. Following complaints, he was arrested by Manikganj Detective Police last Thursday. Subsequently, Mufti Abdullah filed a religious defamation case at Ghior Police Station.

Khaborwala/TSN