Violence Against Baul Singers in Bangladesh: No Arrests Despite Government Promises

Videos documenting attacks on Baul singers have recently become viral across social media platforms

Despite growing public outcry over violent attacks targeting Baul singers, Bangladesh's interim government under Muhammad Yunus has claimed to have issued directives for the apprehension of those responsible. However, no suspects have been detained thus far, even though the perpetrators are clearly identifiable in numerous videos documenting the incidents.

Currently, Bangladesh operates under an interim administration with Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus serving as Chief Adviser. On Thursday, Chief Adviser's Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam announced that stringent orders have been given to swiftly arrest individuals responsible for the recent assaults on Baul artists.

"While the Council of Advisers did not address the attacks on Baul artistes during today's meeting, I can confirm that strict instructions have been issued for the immediate arrest of those involved in these assaults," Alam stated during a press briefing at the Foreign Service Academy.

He further noted that police in Manikganj are conducting extensive search operations to locate and apprehend the culprits, according to information from Bangladesh Sangbad Sanstha.

"Law enforcement agencies are conducting immediate raids in all locations where such attacks have occurred. You will witness results very soon," stated Alam, as quoted by the state news agency.

The viral videos showing attacks on Baul singers have sparked international condemnation and heightened concerns regarding targeted violence against religious minorities in Bangladesh.

At least three mystic minstrels from the Baul community sustained serious injuries after attackers launched a sudden assault on them near a tea stall in the vicinity of the Thakurgaon district court on Wednesday afternoon.

Notably, interim Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus has maintained silence regarding these attacks, even as minority communities—particularly Hindus—continue to face violence from radical Islamist groups.

Recognized by UNESCO as a cultural heritage, Bauls are mystic minstrels representing a syncretic religious tradition from Bengal, known for their distinctive music, poetry, and dance. They typically use instruments such as the ektara, khol, and small cymbals. Their songs explore themes of spiritual liberation and the connection between the soul and a personal deity, combining elements from both Hindu and Sufi traditions.

In a related incident, prominent Baul singer Maharaj Abul Sarkar was previously imprisoned after being arrested on allegations of hurting religious sentiments during a performance. The ongoing suppression of Baul practitioners in Bangladesh is increasingly viewed as evidence of radical Islamic influences gaining prominence under the Yunus administration, while the Hindu minority population continues to experience targeted attacks.

The government has received substantial criticism for failing to provide protection to the Baul community, widely regarded as one of Bangladesh's most peaceful and culturally significant groups.