An alleged attack on Baul singers at the court premises in Thakurgaon town has left two artists injured. The incident occurred on Wednesday (26 November) at noon.
The Baul artists had earlier announced a human chain and protest rally at the Chowrasta intersection under the banner of ‘Sampriti’s Unity, Thakurgaon’, demanding the release of Baul Abul Sarkar. At the same time, a group under the banner of Touhidi Janata also arrived at the site with their programme. Due to the growing crowd, police remained alert from the beginning.
According to local sources, around midday, a group of people under the banner of Touhidi Janata marched peacefully from Chowrasta towards the court area. Upon reaching the court premises, they found several Baul singers preparing for their programme.
The presence of the Baul artists reportedly angered some locals, causing the situation to escalate quickly. A group among the Touhidi Janata attacked the Baul singers, leading to a scuffle. Two Baul artists were injured and were rushed to hospital by bystanders.
Thakurgaon Sadar Police Station’s Officer-in-Charge (OC) Sarwar Alam Khan said the Baul artists were meant to hold their human chain at Chowrasta, and a large police presence was deployed in advance. However, no human chain took place, nor were any groups found at the location. Upon receiving information, police reached the court premises but found both sides had already dispersed. The area was then secured.
Police further stated they would investigate the matter if the Baul artists submit a written complaint. However, tension arising ahead of the announced programme made the situation increasingly complex.
SS