The Bangladesh Short Film Forum has strongly condemned a series of attacks on Baul artists, folk singers and cultural activists across the country. The organisation says these attacks are not merely directed at individual artists, but represent a direct assault on Bangladesh’s cultural freedom and humanistic spirit.
In a statement, the Forum noted a recent rise in planned disruptions of Baul performances, stage occupations, threats to artists and undeclared bans imposed by fundamentalist groups. According to them, these attacks amount to a “declaration of war” on the nation’s culture, constitution and civil rights.
The Forum emphasised that Baul, Lalon and folk music embody the values of freedom, diversity and equality in Bangladesh. Attacks on these traditions, they argue, are attempts to destroy the country’s cultural existence.
The organisation demands that every incident targeting Baul artists be formally treated as a criminal case, rather than dismissed as an “unwanted incident.” They also called for the prompt arrest of all perpetrators and for them to be brought to justice.
Furthermore, the Forum urged clear directives to law enforcement agencies to prevent extremist interference in cultural events, to ensure accountability among district administrations and local authorities, and to develop a permanent national policy safeguarding the safety of artists and cultural workers. They also proposed that strict penalties be imposed on anyone obstructing Baul, Lalon, or folk music, suggesting the state formally recognise these traditions as part of the national heritage.
The Forum further stated that they stand by every artist in the country against attacks on culture. They stressed that protecting cultural heritage is a shared responsibility of both the state and the nation. They warned that extremist forces will never be able to uproot Bangladesh and future generations will not forgive any indifference if decisive action is not taken now.
