15 Injured Including Udichi Branch Secretary Saiful Islam
Sreemangal, April 14 – A violent attack disrupted the Bengali New Year celebrations organized by Bangladesh Udichi Shilpigoshthi’s Sreemangal branch, leaving at least 15 people injured. The assault took place during the morning cultural program on Pahela Baishakh, as a group of armed assailants stormed the event with sticks, machetes, and other traditional weapons.
Among the injured is Mohammad Saiful Islam, the branch’s secretary, who was critically wounded. Others injured include Ejaz Ahmed, Topu Islam, Sajib Mia, Salman Chowdhury, and Habibur Rahman. The attack triggered panic, causing spectators to flee the venue.
Eyewitnesses reported that the assailants forcibly entered the venue and demanded the program be stopped. When Udichi members attempted to engage in dialogue, the attackers launched a brutal assault and vandalized the stage. The event, which draws large crowds annually regardless of political affiliation, was brought to an abrupt end.
Neelkantha Deb, president of Udichi Sreemangal branch, condemned the attack and alleged that both he and Saiful Islam received death threats. “This wasn’t just an attack on culture, but on our lives. The threats against us indicate this may be driven by personal vendetta,” he stated.
Saiful Islam, speaking to reporters, said, “This attack is the continuation of a long-standing campaign against us by anti-progressive elements. In April 2023, they attempted to vandalize our office. When we resisted, I was targeted and later threatened with death.”
He added that during his employment abroad with a Japanese shipping company through Haq & Sons Shipping, his family was also subjected to regular threats. “In my absence, my family was so fearful that they had to take refuge at my in-laws’ home. Now, after returning in 2024, I’ve been attacked again,” he said.
Bangladesh Udichi Shilpigoshthi is the country’s largest cultural organization, known for promoting progressive values, social awareness, and freedom of expression through music, drama, and art. Over the years, it has faced multiple attacks, some of which have resulted in fatalities.
