Bangladesh Student Federation (BSF) has issued a sharp condemnation of the cancellation of a scheduled film screening in Brahmanbaria, accusing the government of failing to protect the democratic rights of its citizens.
In a joint statement released on Saturday, BSF Central President Mashiur Rahman Khan Richard and General Secretary Saikat Arif expressed deep concern over the suspension of the film ‘Bonalata Express’, which was organised by the Brahmanbaria Film Society. The screening was reportedly called off following threats from Kawmi Madrasa Chatra Oikya and Hefazat-e-Islam.
The student leaders highlighted a lack of effective action from the Brahmanbaria district administration and the government in response to these threats.
Instead of providing necessary security and cooperation for the event, the authorities allegedly applied various forms of pressure on the organisers to stop the exhibition. Furthermore, the permission previously granted for the use of a school venue for the screening was revoked.
“The local administration and the government had a responsibility to arrange the necessary cooperation and security for the film exhibition,” the statement read. “By failing to do so and instead aligning with this fascist behaviour, the government has effectively demonstrated its failure to preserve the democratic rights of the people”.
The BSF leaders demanded that the authorities immediately provide adequate security to the Brahmanbaria Film Society to ensure the screening of the film can take place.
Additionally, the Federation called for a thorough investigation and trial regarding attacks on shrines (mazars and khankas), as well as cultural and media offices, that have occurred in the period following the recent mass uprising.
