Renowned yet controversial Baul singer Abul Sarkar has become the subject of a fresh legal complaint in Dhaka over alleged disrespectful remarks targeting religious sentiments. On Monday, Dr. Md. Mahfuzur Rahman, a professor at the Neurotrauma Surgery Department of the National Institute of Neurosciences and Hospital, formally filed the case at the Metropolitan Magistrate Ariful Islam’s court.
The court recorded the complainant’s statement and instructed the Officer-in-Charge of Ramna Police Station to conduct a detailed investigation and submit a comprehensive report. Solaiman Tushar, the complainant’s lawyer, confirmed the development, underlining that legal proceedings were underway.
According to the complaint, during a performance at a fair in Manikganj, Abul Sarkar allegedly made remarks regarding Allah that were deemed derogatory and offensive. The remarks reportedly caused deep offence to the complainant and others, prompting the legal action. The charges have been filed under Sections 295 and 295(A) of the Penal Code 1860, which criminalise religious defamation and hurting religious sentiments.
This recent case follows earlier legal entanglements involving the singer. On 20 November, Abul Sarkar was detained by Manikganj DB police during a musical performance in Madaripur. The following day, Mufti Md. Abdullah, the Imam of Ghior Bandar Mosque, filed a case at Ghior Police Station, leading to his court appearance and remand to prison by the Senior Judicial Magistrate of Manikganj.
The controversy has provoked public demonstrations and counter-protests. On 23 November, supporters of Abul Sarkar staged a human chain at the Manikganj Press Club demanding his release. Simultaneously, a protest rally was organised in the district town under the banner of “Ulama and Tawhidi Citizens of Manikganj District.” During clashes between opposing groups, four individuals, including three of the singer’s supporters, sustained injuries.
Public reaction has been intense, with prominent figures condemning the attacks on his supporters while highlighting the complex balance between artistic freedom and respect for religious beliefs. Analysts have pointed out that the incident underscores the challenges faced by performers operating in a socio-religiously sensitive environment.
The police investigation will involve gathering witness testimonies and evidence before submitting their report to the court. The findings will likely determine whether further charges or legal restrictions are imposed. Observers note that the case could have lasting implications for Baul performers across the country, signalling heightened scrutiny over content that might be perceived as offensive to religious sentiment.
As the situation develops, the controversy surrounding Abul Sarkar has once again ignited debates on the intersection of art, law, and religious sensitivity in Bangladesh, highlighting the delicate task of balancing cultural expression with social and religious norms.