The Uttara Sector-4 Homeowners Association has issued a letter demanding the closure of shooting houses in the area, sparking protests from television drama production groups. The issue has since the gone viral on social media.
In the letter signed by the president and general secretary of Uttara Kalyan Samity Sector-4, it was stated: “Shooting activities cause public gatherings on roads, disrupt traffic, and create problems for residents’ daily lives.”
The July 20 letter urged homeowners not to rent out properties as shooting houses, stating: “Such commercial activities in residential areas violate policies. House owners are expected to act responsibly to protect the sector’s environment and reputation.”
The association’s general secretary, Mortuza Ali, confirmed the letter to Times of Bangladesh and shared a video of a torch-lit protest via WhatsApp, saying: “This is from last week’s shooting. Such activities compromise residential security, prompting continuous complaints. The decision was made after discussions within our group.”
He added: “There are three shooting houses here: Laboni-4, Laboni-5, and Apon Ghor-2. Shooting units often block roads and operate late at night. This is a residential area, and such disruptions affect our safety.”
When asked for specifics, he replied: “I’m currently outside Dhaka for a family matter. We have a meeting tomorrow where I’ll elaborate officially.”
Producers and artists have condemned the letter as a threat to arts and culture. Actors’ Equity Association General Secretary Rashed Mamun Apu said: “We strongly protest this decision. It’s part of a targeted attack on Bangladesh’s cultural sphere. Their claims are false – shooting units prioritise quiet environments. The 25-year-old house in question is at the sector’s edge, with no road-blocking issues.”
Directors’ Guild General Secretary Faridul Hasan stated: “We’ve issued a protest statement. This action is unjust—the society lacks authority. They should’ve informed the Public Works Ministry instead.”
Shooting House Association adviser Khalilur Rahman acknowledged some complaints: “Late-night noises do disturb residents, but cooperation ensures no major issues. We’ve worked here for 30 years with local support.”
Former TelePAB General Secretary Saju Muntasir admitted industry faults: “Our heavy lighting disrupts neighbors’ sleep. Similar issues arose two years ago – we set rules, but violations occurred. Still, their letter was unnecessary. Clubs and shops operate here – why single out shooting houses?”
A meeting with the association is scheduled for Saturday evening. Muntasir expressed hope: “Face-to-face talks will resolve this. The government hasn’t allocated shooting spaces, and our industry can’t afford commercial venues. We’ll propose collaborative guidelines.”