A controversial incident at a public fair in Tangail has drawn widespread criticism after ropes used for constructing stalls were reportedly tied around the necks of busts commemorating seven Bir Shrestho—Bangladesh’s highest wartime gallantry award recipients—installed at the Shahid Smriti Municipal Park.
The incident occurred during a nine-day small and cottage industry fair organised by the Bangladesh Small and Cottage Industries Corporation (BSCIC). The fair, which aimed to promote local entrepreneurs, had stalls erected across the park, including in close proximity to the memorial sculptures.
According to local accounts, the fair was inaugurated on 24 April by State Minister for Fisheries and Livestock Sultan Salahuddin Tuku. On the final night of the event, an image circulated widely on Facebook showing support ropes from temporary stalls passing directly around the neck area of the busts of the seven Bir Shrestho figures. The image quickly triggered strong reactions across social media platforms, with many users describing the scene as disrespectful and deeply insensitive.
Public criticism intensified as several commentators highlighted not only the placement of the ropes but also the broader condition of the area during the fair. Some posts alleged that waste had accumulated nearby, further fuelling concerns about mismanagement of the site during the event.
A number of individuals, including activists and educators, expressed anger over the incident. They argued that the memorial, dedicated to those who sacrificed their lives during the Liberation War, should have been protected from any form of commercial interference. Calls were made for accountability and stricter oversight in the future to prevent similar occurrences.
Key Details of the Incident
| Category |
Information |
| Location |
Shahid Smriti Municipal Park, Tangail |
| Event |
BSCIC nine-day industrial fair |
| Inauguration Date |
24 April |
| Incident Date |
Final night of the fair (Sunday) |
| Issue |
Stall support ropes reportedly tied around busts of seven Bir Shrestho |
| Public Reaction |
Widespread criticism on social media |
| Official Response |
Ropes removed after issue raised |
Former principal of Government MM Ali College and veteran educationist Shamsul Huda stated that obstructing the visibility of the memorials through stall construction was inappropriate. He further remarked that the use of ropes around the busts was condemnable and stressed the need for responsible planning in future public events.
In response to the controversy, Shahnoor Begum, Assistant General Manager of BSCIC in Tangail, said she was unaware of who had tied the ropes in such a manner. She added that once the matter came to the attention of the authorities, the ropes were immediately removed.
The incident has since prompted renewed debate over the balance between commercial fairs and the preservation of national memorial spaces, with many urging stricter guidelines for events held in historically significant public areas.
Comments