Members of Udichi Shilpigoshthi in Sunamganj have alleged that they were denied permission to hold their Pohela Baishakh celebration at the Heritage Museum grounds, where the organization has hosted the event for over a decade. The incident led to a protest and a scaled-down celebration in the town.
According to a press release signed by Udichi President Sheila Roy and General Secretary Jahir Uddin, the organization had applied on April 8 to hold the event at the Heritage Museum. They were later asked by the Deputy Commissioner to submit a list of songs and performances planned for the program. Udichi stated that, as an independent cultural organization, they do not consider themselves obligated to provide such details.
After this, Udichi attempted to organize the event at an alternative location near the River View area in Ukilpara. However, they were informed by the Additional Deputy Commissioner (General) on the eve of Pohela Baishakh that separate events would not be permitted, as all organizations were expected to participate in the official government program.
Deputy Commissioner Mohammad Ilias Mia stated that permission had only been denied for the Heritage Museum premises and denied allegations of broader obstruction. He said Udichi had been invited to join the official celebration and that there were no restrictions on organizing separate programs.
In response, Udichi held a protest rally and a limited-scale New Year’s celebration at Hussain Bakht Square on April 14, expressing opposition to the administrative decision and raising concerns over restrictions on independent cultural activities.
Source: Prothom Alo
Bangladesh Feminist Archives 