Police have been accused of harassing Baul singers, wandering mystics and followers of the spiritual philosopher Fakir Lalon Shah ahead of a three-day festival marking his 136th death anniversary in Bangladesh’s western district of Kushtia.
The allegations emerged after police stepped up searches and surveillance around Lalon’s shrine in Chheuriya, Kumarkhali, where the annual festival is scheduled to begin on Oct. 17.
Lalon’s followers say visitors arriving for the religious and cultural gathering have faced intrusive searches and questioning. Police deny harassing anyone, saying the operations are intended to prevent drug use and ensure public safety.
The festival draws thousands of Baul musicians, fakirs, spiritual practitioners and visitors from across Bangladesh to commemorate Lalon, whose teachings emphasize humanity, spiritual freedom and the rejection of social divisions.
Police Step Up Searches Around Lalon Shrine
On Sunday, Oct. 11, Kushtia district police conducted a special operation at the shrine and surrounding areas ahead of the festival.
The operation was carried out under the direction of Superintendent of Police Md Aminul Islam, with senior officers overseeing security arrangements.
Police searched visitors and their belongings, patrolled the festival grounds and increased surveillance to prevent drug use and trafficking.
Officers from the district police, Special Response Team and Tourist Police participated in the operation.
Authorities said similar searches and patrols would continue throughout the festival.
Followers Allege Harassment
Some Lalon followers have expressed concern that the intensified police presence is disrupting preparations for the annual gathering.
They allege that Baul singers, fakirs and other visitors have been subjected to unnecessary questioning and searches.
The allegations have raised concerns about whether security measures could interfere with the peaceful religious and cultural practices associated with Lalon’s shrine.
Police, however, maintain that the operations are not directed against any religious or cultural group.
Police Cite Drug Prevention and Public Safety
Kumarkhali Police Station Officer-in-Charge Jamal Uddin said the primary objective was to ensure a peaceful, secure and drug-free festival.
Police have announced strict measures against the possession, consumption and sale of illegal drugs, particularly cannabis, in and around the festival grounds.
Jamal Uddin said officers would remain vigilant against drug trafficking and any activities that could disrupt public order.
Security operations would continue until the festival concludes, he added.
Police have not provided a specific response to the allegations that legitimate festival participants have been unnecessarily harassed.
The annual gathering is one of Bangladesh’s most significant celebrations of Baul spiritual traditions, bringing together followers of Lalon’s philosophy regardless of religious or social background.
As preparations continue, the allegations have highlighted the need to balance public security with the rights of participants to move freely and practice their cultural and spiritual traditions.
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