To demand an immediate end to the ongoing encroachment on the historic sports field, the local social organisation Mallika Samajkalyan Sangstha, Goaitula, Sylhet, organised a human chain at the Shah Eidgah playground on Tuesday, October 28.
On the way home, a key speaker was attacked.
The main speaker at the demonstration was Sohail Chowdhury, the Cultural Affairs Secretary of the Bangladesh Socialist Party (BASD) Sylhet District Branch.
In his scathing speech, Chowdhury said:
“Sports are the only thing that can keep kids away from drugs and bad behaviour. For sports to continue, this playground must be protected. To fight these evil forces, everyone must take to the streets, disregarding the dangers posed by land-grabbers. I support your efforts to preserve the field.
He went on to say:
“I have battled against the tide and societal evils throughout my political career, and not just my struggles have ever failed. Insha’Allah, this one won’t either. However, we require your combined assistance.
Ambush Following Protest
Around 7:30 PM, after the human chain, criminals tried to vandalise Chowdhury’s CNG autorickshaw by throwing bricks and stones at it while he was driving home to Shibganj via Baluchar.
The driver’s fast judgment allowed Chowdhury to leave the area safely and without incident.
“This has happened before,” Chowdhury informed Bangladesh Dias. “I have been targeted for murder on several occasions.”
Suspected Motive: Retaliation by Fair Operators
Initial suspicions suggest that the attackers were a group that ran the Shah Eidgah fair.
Chowdhury stated over the phone, “I think those who fear justice and truth cannot use threats to silence us.” “The public will continue to be involved in this just movement to save the playground.”
