A planned cultural programme in Chattogram highlighting solidarity through music was postponed on Saturday after organisers said they faced administrative restrictions.
The event, titled ‘Gaane Gaane Sanghati’, was scheduled to take place outside the Chattogram Shilpakala Academy in the afternoon. It was intended as a peaceful cultural response to recent attacks on artistes, cultural organisations, media institutions and journalists.
Organisers said the programme was meant to defend Bangla cultural traditions and the values of the Liberation War through song and collective performance. However, shortly before the scheduled start time of 3:30pm, they announced that the event would not go ahead.
According to organisers, police advised them not to proceed, citing possible security concerns. One organiser said they were informed that the gathering could create complications and were therefore asked to postpone it.
Law enforcement authorities offered a different explanation, stating that the programme lacked official permission. A police official said public events require prior approval and the organisers had not completed the necessary process.
No disturbances were reported at the venue, and the area remained calm after the postponement. Organisers said a new date for the programme would be announced following discussions with the authorities.
