Mob Attack at Amar Ekushey Book Fair Condemned by Bangladesh's Interim Government

In Dhaka, a violent incident at the Amar Ekushey Book Fair drew harsh criticism from Interim Government Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus, who described the mob attack as a blatant disregard for both citizens' rights and the country's laws. The disturbance began when a group of madrasa students targeted a stall displaying a book by Taslima Nasreen, a writer currently in exile, leading to an attack that involved vandalism and the forced removal of the controversial book.

Government officials have reacted swiftly, directing the police and the Bangla Academy to thoroughly investigate the incident. Security agencies were also ordered to implement strong preventive measures against any further mob violence, ensuring that the historic and beloved book fair—a symbol of cultural exchange and remembrance of the language martyrs of 1952—remains a safe space for intellectual discourse and literary celebration.

Eyewitnesses noted that the agitation started at the stall of Sabyasachi Publication, with the assailants questioning the presence of Nasreen's book before attacking the publisher and discarding the book. Local police managed to regain control of the situation by apprehending both the publisher and the agitators, and further reinforcements were deployed to prevent any spike in tensions.

The incident quickly gained attention on social media, with videos of the attack circulating widely. Taslima Nasreen herself expressed dismay at the events on her social media platform, labeling the attackers as extremist and accusing the authorities of complicity by removing her book prior to the assault. The attack and subsequent reactions underline the deep-seated divisions and challenges faced by the nation in upholding freedom of expression.