Government Ignoring Our Protest: Farhad Mazhar

Prominent writer, poet, and philosopher Farhad Mazhar has stated that despite a long struggle against the destruction of mazars, the government is not paying attention to their protests. He expressed this in a Facebook post on Monday.

Farhad Mazhar said that the ‘Sadhugurubhakt o Oli-Awlia Ashekan Parishad’ has called a protest rally at 11 am in front of the National Press Club in Dhaka to demand the release of the famous Palakar and Bayati Maharaj Abul Sarkar, and to protest the attacks on devotees in Manikganj.

He further stated that this protest and gathering is for those who have faith in the unseen according to the instructions of the Holy Quran, who are free from personal desires, greed, violence, or harming others, and who unconditionally submit to Allah and His Messenger as the sole guide in life.

Farhad Mazhar expressed hope that everyone will attend the rally and submit memorandums to the government. He added that the gathering is also for those who advance society through intelligence, conscience, and social skills, regardless of religion or belief.

He said that the meeting would decide future duties and programmes. The struggle against the destruction of mazars has been ongoing for a long time, promoting discipline in society through devotion, Ashekan teachings, and compassion. However, the government remains indifferent to the protests. This cannot continue.

He also wrote that Maharaj Abul Sarkar, following the July popular uprising, emerged as a leading saint promoting mazars as public spaces. When he was arrested, the law enforcement agencies were requested not to file a case against him, yet a case was filed.

The attack on Bauls in Manikganj, forcing some to jump into ponds out of fear for their lives, has damaged the government’s international image. According to him, relying on law enforcement and suppression instead of dialogue and social dispute resolution is responsible for such situations.

Khaborwala/TSN