Published : 28 Nov 2025, 12:51 AM
Updated : 21 Aug 2026, 02:48 PM
A sweeping operation is under way to arrest those involved in recent attacks on Baul artistes across several districts, Chief Advisor’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam has said.
On Thursday, he told reporters that results would be visible soon.
Manikganj Police are already on the hunt with other districts launching parallel drives, he said during a press conference at the Foreign Service Academy.
Shafiqul appeared before the media to brief on the day’s Advisory Council meeting.
The tension escalated after police arrested Baul singer Abul Sarkar in Manikganj on accusations of hurting religious sentiments through a performance.
When fellow Baul artistes gathered in town demanding his release, local worshippers announced a counter-protest. Several Bauls were injured in the ensuing attack on Wednesday, with some fleeing into nearby water bodies to escape.
The incidents sparked widespread condemnation nationwide. Human chains were organised to protest the assaults on Bauls, who came under attack in multiple locations.
One victim has since filed a case in Manikganj against unidentified assailants. No arrests have yet been made.
Asked whether the Advisory Council had discussed the matter, Shafiqul said the topic did not come up.
He added that instructions had been issued to arrest the attackers swiftly and updates would come soon.
