Sheba Prokashoni, one of Bangladesh’s most popular publishing houses, has temporarily suspended all operations following allegations of internal financial irregularities and misconduct, the organisation announced on Wednesday.
In an official notice signed by partner Qazi Shahnur Hossain, the publishing house stated that management had recently identified various irregularities within its operations.
To facilitate a fair, impartial and transparent investigation, and to complete necessary audit procedures, the decision was made to suspend all activities with immediate effect.
The move was further clarified in a Facebook post by Masuma Maimur, adviser to Sheba Prokashoni, who confirmed that an independent audit firm has been engaged to conduct a full-scale review of the organisation’s financial affairs.
“At one stage of the investigation, some information and evidence initially came to my hands, which raised serious doubts about the financial irregularities of the organisation,” Masuma said.
Masuma, who has served as adviser since 2020, disclosed that she had faced personal challenges, including her husband Qazi Maimur Hossain’s recent hospitalisation, but remained committed to addressing the governance issues. “Despite the extremely difficult situation, I decided to arrange for his treatment and also take legal action regarding the irregularities of Sheba Prokashoni,” she added.
Founded in Dhaka in May 1963 by writer and publisher Qazi Anwar Hossain, Sheba Prokashoni has played a pivotal role in popularising Bengali paperback culture, making literature affordable and accessible to mass readership. The publishing house is widely recognised for its adventure stories, thrillers, detective fiction and translated popular literature.
In her statement, Masuma offered reassurances to key stakeholders. Authors were assured that all pending royalties would be settled in full, while readers were told that the brand would endure. “Sheba Prokashoni will not disappear as long as I am alive, Insh’Allah,” she affirmed.
Looking ahead, Masuma indicated plans to restructure the organisation as “Sheba Prokashoni Private Limited” under more transparent and professional management. She also hinted at a potential leadership transition, stating, “I may not be in the advisory position anymore… Maybe the position of MD of the company will be mine. I will be able to work with complete independence.”
The adviser cautioned the public against relying on unverified reports, noting that misleading propaganda and rumours may circulate during the investigation. “We will take action against those responsible through legal process and will quickly come back to the readers by reorganising the management of Sheba Prokashoni anew,” she said.
Masuma announced that she would address the matter in greater detail via Facebook Live in the coming days.
Industry observers note that the temporary suspension marks a significant moment for Bangladesh’s publishing sector, given Sheba Prokashoni’s longstanding cultural influence. The outcome of the independent audit is expected to shape the future governance and operational framework of the institution.
