A torch procession was held at Dhaka University on Monday evening, demanding justice for recent attacks on baul singers and artistes in Manikganj and calling for the release of baul singer Abul Sarkar.
Organised by the Gonotantrik Chhatra Jote, the rally began at the TSC and moved through Shahbagh, concluding with a brief anti-terrorism gathering near the Raju Sculpture.
The event was moderated by Nuzia Hasin Rasha, president of Dhaka University’s branch of Biplobi Chhatra Maitree, and presided over by Shayedul Haq Nishan, president of the Gonotantrik Chhatra Council.
Singer Farzana Wahid Shayan and Dhaka University Central Student Union (Ducsu) member Hema Chakma also addressed the gathering.
Farzana Wahid Shayan criticised the government for failing to ensure the safety of every citizen. “The failures of every system ultimately lie with the government.
As a society, we must safeguard institutions in every district and neighborhood,” she said. She stressed that the people of Bangladesh have always protected their country and urged citizens to stay vigilant rather than rely solely on authorities.
Ducsu member Hema Chakma underscored the importance of freedom of expression for all communities. “Just as bauls have the right to perform in public, every citizen—regardless of religion or ethnicity—must have the right to speak, sing, and dance freely in Bangladesh,” she said.
The rally highlights growing public concern over attacks on cultural figures and reinforces calls for accountability and the protection of artistic freedom.
