Rising Religious Extremism in Bangladesh: Attacks on Baul Singers Intensify While Yunus Administration Remains Silent

The arrest of 'baul' artist Abul Sarkar has ignited widespread protests across Bangladesh.

In a concerning demonstration of radical Islamic influence under Muhammad Yunus' administration, 'baul' singers continue to face violent attacks throughout Bangladesh. Recently, three mystic minstrels from the 'baul' community sustained serious injuries when attackers launched an unprovoked assault on them near a tea stall at the Thakurgaon district court on Wednesday afternoon.

Nobel Laureate Yunus, who serves as the nation's interim chief, has remained notably silent regarding these attacks, even as religious minorities, particularly Hindus, face ongoing targeting by radical Islamist mobs. Though Yunus himself has not commented, his press secretary Shafiqul Alam described the attack as "deplorable" and stated that authorities are working diligently to identify those responsible.

Bauls represent a UNESCO-recognized musical tradition—mystic minstrels belonging to a syncretic religious sect originating in Bengal. They are distinguished by their unique musical expressions, poetry, and dance performances featuring instruments like the Ektara, 'khol' drum, and small cymbals ('kartal' and 'manjira'). Their songs predominantly explore spiritual liberation and the soul's connection with a personal deity, blending Hindu and Sufi influences.

A disturbing video has circulated widely online showing a mob calling for violence against 'bauls.' These individuals reportedly belong to Tawhidi Janata, a radical Islamist organization with suspected terrorist connections.

'Tawhidi Janata,' meaning 'people following monotheism,' has previously been linked to aggressive actions, including storming the Shahbagh police station. Critics of Yunus' government suggest that radical Islamist elements have gained confidence following the release of imprisoned extremists after Yunus assumed power last year.

Since Sheikh Hasina's removal from office, mobs operating under the Tawhidi Janata banner have disrupted cultural gatherings and destroyed multiple shrines belonging to Muslim Sufi saints who advocated moderate Islamic practices in the region. They have also conducted targeted attacks against minority communities, with Hindus facing particular persecution.

This recent violence against minorities follows the arrest of prominent 'baul' singer Abul Sarkar on charges of blasphemy and making derogatory comments during a performance. His arrest has prompted significant protests and condemnation from civil society members, especially students and artists, who warn of emerging "religious fascism" in Bangladesh following former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's ousting.

The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) has spoken out against the attacks, describing them as "heinous acts." BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir stated, "Our bauls perform in every corner of the country—in villages, fields, and open spaces. I believe these attacks on them are carried out by religious extremists. This is unacceptable. Choosing the path of violence and vengeance is not befitting for anyone."