Udichi alleges ‘deliberate’ arson at central headquarters

It says musical instruments and other assets worth around Tk 5 million were destroyed, while police say no arrests have yet been made

The Udichi Shilpigosthi has said the attack, vandalism, and arson at its central office following the death of Sharif Osman bin Hadi was “pre-planned”.

The case, filed with Shahbagh Police by Jamshed Anwar, general secretary of one faction of the cultural organisation, names 10–15 unknown individuals as suspects.

It alleged the attack on the Topkhana Road headquarters of the organisation was part of a larger conspiracy to create unrest in the country.

Shahbagh Police chief Moniruzzaman said no arrests have been made in connection with the case, filed on Sunday afternoon. The FIR alleges that 10–15 miscreants conspired to launch the attack.

“It was a destructive act aimed at damaging the nation’s cultural heritage, creating chaos, and destabilising the country,” the FIR states.

According to the complaint, around 7:30pm on Friday, Dec 19, the unidentified assailants forcibly entered the office, vandalising property and setting fire.

Over 3,500 books, musical instruments, and 57 years’ worth of publications and records were destroyed. The total estimated loss is Tk 5.02 million.

Jamshed said several historic records and artefacts destroyed in the fire have no financial value. An itemised list of musical instruments, office furniture, computers, and other equipment has been submitted to the police.