In a village of Narayanganj Sadar Upazila, devotees have planned a two-day spiritual gathering and Lalon Mela to honor the mystic saint Lalon Shah. The event is set to begin Friday at the premises of Muktidham Ashram and Lalon Academy in Madhya Narasinghpur, Kashipur Union.
However, tensions have risen as several locals identifying as “Touhidi Janata” have issued threats to shut down the event, citing religious concerns. Organizers claim that last Friday, there was an attempted attack on the Ashram.
🗣️ Fakir Shah Jalal, founder of the Ashram and Academy, said he established the center a decade ago and has been hosting the event for seven years. Devotees from across the country attend to sing Lalon’s songs and share food. He emphasized that the event has never faced opposition before, but this year, threats include warnings of destruction if the event proceeds. He has appealed to authorities for protection.
🚨 Last Friday, over a hundred worshippers marched under the banner of “Touhidi Janata of Kashipur Union,” calling the event “destructive to faith.” They later gathered near a local Eidgah, where Maulana Abdul Awal, a central leader of Hefazat-e-Islam, spoke out against the Mela. In a video, he’s heard threatening to stop the event and warning of potential unrest.
🛑 Awal stated that Muslims must resist immoral acts, even physically if needed, and warned the administration to shut down the event or bear responsibility for any consequences.
👥 A local shopkeeper confirmed that people had gathered with intent to attack, responding to mosque loudspeaker announcements, but police intervention prevented escalation.
👮♂️ Fatullah Model Police Station’s OC Shariful Islam said they visited the site to prevent disorder and advised organizers to obtain proper permission.
📨 Shah Jalal said all preparations are complete and invitations sent, including to the DC and SP as in previous years. Despite this, he fears constant threats.
📋 On Monday, Shah Jalal met the District Commissioner and submitted a written request for permission. DC Mohammad Mahmudul Haque confirmed receiving both a memorandum from religious leaders demanding cancellation and a permission request from organizers. The matter has been referred to the Superintendent of Police for further action based on law and order.
🎭 Meanwhile, Narayanganj Cultural Alliance condemned the threats and urged authorities to ensure the event proceeds peacefully.
If you’d like, I can help draft a statement, press release, or even a social media post in support of the organizers or cultural freedom. Just say the word.
