Protesters Attack Taslima Nasrin’s Stall at Dhaka Fair, Probe Ordered

International International News

Posted by NewAdmin on 2025-02-12 08:56:27 |

Share: Facebook | Twitter | Whatsapp | Linkedin Visits: 87

---

Protesters Disrupt Book Stall at Dhaka Fair Over Taslima Nasrin's Works

A group of protesters stormed a book stall at the Amar Ekushey Book Fair in Dhaka on Monday, objecting to the display of works by Taslima Nasrin, the exiled Bangladeshi author. The protest took place at the stall of the publishing house Sabyasachi Prokashoni, which was showcasing Nasrin’s books. The protesters, operating under the banner of Towhidi Janata, surrounded the stall and chanted slogans in protest, arguing against the presence of Nasrin’s controversial writings.

Police Intervention and Tensions Escalate

The protest escalated quickly, prompting police to intervene. They took Shatabdi Vobo, the publisher of Sabyasachi Prokashoni, to a nearby police control room for safety and to restore order. Despite the intervention, the protesters encircled the police control room, further intensifying the tension in the area. The incident caused a disturbance at the fair, which is an important cultural event in Bangladesh, drawing attention to the broader issues of censorship and freedom of expression.

Yunus Orders Investigation into the Incident

Following widespread criticism of the protesters’ actions, Bangladesh’s Chief Adviser, Muhammad Yunus, stepped in to address the situation. He ordered authorities to launch a probe into the incident, condemning the "disorderly behaviour" and vowing to hold those responsible accountable. The decision to investigate the protest reflects a commitment to maintaining peace and upholding freedom of expression, especially within the context of Bangladesh’s literary scene.

Ongoing Debate Over Nasrin’s Legacy and Freedom of Speech

The protest against Nasrin's books highlights the ongoing debate over her legacy and the limits of freedom of speech in Bangladesh. Nasrin has been living in exile for years due to her controversial views on religion and social issues, and her works continue to provoke strong reactions. The incident at the Amar Ekushey Book Fair adds to the growing concerns about censorship and the challenges faced by writers in Bangladesh, particularly those with dissenting views.

Go!