Attack and Vandalism at Baul Music Gathering in Sherpur

An atmosphere of fear prevails among local residents following an attack and vandalism at a Baul music gathering in Ganevruyapara village of Pakuria Union in Sherpur Sadar Upazila. The Baul music programme, organised in a freshly harvested paddy field beside the house of Shamim Driver at around 11:00 pm on Thursday night, was abruptly brought to a halt after coming under sudden attack. Even two days after the incident, the area has not returned to normal.

According to eyewitnesses and local sources, several youths suddenly entered the venue during the music session and began hurling abuses, threatening that “there will be no singing or music here.” They then vandalised various Baul music instruments, including harmoniums and flutes. Following the attack, chaos erupted among the audience, and many people quickly left the area fearing for their safety. Panic spread throughout the locality.

A video of the incident that later circulated on social media shows several youths angrily abusing others while vandalising stage equipment. The video further heightened concern among local residents.

The organiser of the programme, Shamim Mia, has been mentally shaken by the incident. He said he had arranged the Baul music programme on his own initiative. However, a group suddenly arrived and shut down the event without providing any reason. He initially considered informing the police immediately, but later refrained from filing a complaint due to fears of a power imbalance with the attackers.

Mofazzal Hossain, a resident of Ganevruyapara village, said, “I went to listen to the music. When the disturbance suddenly began, I left quickly. Later, I heard that the harmonium and flute were broken.” Another local shopkeeper, Bulbul, said he decided not to go to the spot after hearing about the unrest.

Local residents including Samedul Islam, Rabiul from the Shekhhati area, and rural dental practitioner Asad Ali, among others, said they did not personally witness the attack but had heard about the vandalism and disorder. Some locals suspect that the incident may have been triggered by a disagreement between two groups over the selection of guests for the programme.

Regarding the matter, newly appointed Officer-in-Charge of Sherpur Sadar Police Station, Sohel Rana, said that the police had not received any such complaint. Additional Superintendent of Police (Sadar Circle) Nasrin Akter also said that no written complaint had been submitted in connection with the incident as of Saturday morning.