Lalon Mela called off due to security threats

An annual Lalon Mela in Narayanganj was canceled after district authorities denied permission for the event, citing "threats from a religious group." The two-day festival, organized by Muktidham Ashram and Lalon Academy in Madhya Narsingpur under Kashipur Union Parishad, was scheduled to begin on Friday evening, drawing devotees and Baul singers from across the country to honor mystic poet Fakir Lalon Shah.

Organizers claimed the administration imposed restrictions instead of ensuring security. Fakir Shah Jalal, founder of the ashram and academy, stated, "We had made all arrangements, but the administration refused to permit the event, citing threats from certain members of the Muslim community. Even when we offered to hold the event indoors without loudspeakers, permission was denied."

Disappointed attendees, including Kamal Uddin from Cumilla, expressed their frustration. "I came to sing songs, but now there’s nothing to do here," he said. Shah Jalal added, "Guests left without even having lunch. The event was completely ruined." 

This marked the first cancellation in six years due to opposition. On November 15, a group of locals, under the banner "Towhidi Janata of Kashipur UP," protested the event, and Hefazat-e-Islam leader Maulana Abdul Auwal warned the administration to halt it or face intervention. 

Despite a human chain protest supporting the festival on November 20, and Shah Jalal’s appeal to Deputy Commissioner Mohammad Mahmudul Hoque for security, the authorities declined, citing a written objection from locals and concerns over law and order. Threats to burn down the ashram were also reported.

The decision drew sharp criticism from Narayanganj Sangskritik Jote and rights activists. Rafiur Rabbi, an adviser to the Jote, stated, "Instead of ensuring security against communal threats, the authorities enabled the event's cancellation. We strongly condemn this decision."