A religiously sensitive incident on Friday night at Jahangirnagar University’s Him Festival sparked tension among students and prompted immediate administrative attention. The event, held in the Sculpture Courtyard, featured a performance by singer Eshok Sarker, which some students perceived as offensive to their religious sentiments. The occurrence generated concern across both the student body and university authorities.
Eyewitnesses reported that during Sarker’s performance, student Fazle Rabbi expressed dissatisfaction with elements of the presentation. Rabbi approached the stage mid-performance, vocally objecting via a microphone. A brief verbal confrontation ensued between Rabbi, a few students, and the event organisers. Other students intervened to escort Rabbi from the stage, restoring order temporarily.
Despite the initial disruption, the programme continued for some time without further incident. However, later in the evening, a group of students gathered at the Shaheed Minar premises, chanting slogans related to “religious disrespect.” Around 2 a.m., the students proceeded to the residence of Vice-Chancellor Professor Mohammad Kamrul Ahsan. The Vice-Chancellor assured the students that preliminary findings by the proctorial team would lead to appropriate action. Following this reassurance, the students dispersed peacefully.
The university administration has confirmed the incident and emphasised its commitment to addressing student concerns. Assistant Proctor Professor Abdur Razzak explained: “Some students initially raised objections regarding the recitation of Surah An-Nas. When one student protested on stage, the situation became momentarily tense. We intervened, calmed the students, and they subsequently left the area. Singer Eshok Sarker has expressed regret over the incident.”
Authorities have pledged stricter oversight of future events to prevent similar occurrences. Analysts note that the episode reflects the student body’s heightened moral awareness and sensitivity towards religious matters. It has also sparked a broader discussion on balancing cultural expression with respect for religious sentiments within the university community.
Key details of the incident are summarised below:
| Subject | Details |
|---|---|
| Incident | Religious dispute during Him Festival performance |
| Date & Time | Friday night, approximately 9 p.m. to 2 a.m. |
| Location | Jahangirnagar University, Sculpture Courtyard |
| Key Individuals | Eshok Sarker (Performer), Fazle Rabbi (Student), VC Prof. Mohammad Kamrul Ahsan |
| Protest Activities | Stage protest, gathering at Shaheed Minar, student visit to VC residence |
| Administrative Response | Preliminary proctorial report, peaceful dispersal, performer’s apology |
Following the event, the university community has called for a careful re-evaluation of cultural events to ensure freedom of artistic expression while safeguarding religious sensitivities. Event organisers have pledged to implement more structured and closely supervised programmes in the future.