Bondi Shomoyer Chitkar: Addressing democratic and civil rights

Since October 2018, the Digital Security Act (DSA) has been threatening freedom of speech in the country, endangering our constitutional right to information and expression. This act has been used to sue and arrest journalists, writers, and artistes over the years. Recent arrests of journalist Shafiqul Islam Kajol, cartoonist Ahmed Kabir Kishore, Baul singer Shariat Boyati among many others spurred a movement against the DSA.

Several cultural activists, including poets, singers, artists, cartoonists, bauls and playwrights, recently united in the capital's Shahbagh to address the recent violations of human rights such as freedom of speech, freedom of expression, and freedom of art. Alongside the DSA, the protest, titled Bondi Shomoyer Chitkar, addressed issues such as the government's recent decision to shut down 25 jute mills across the country and the recent downfall of our healthcare industry, among others.

"The cultural aspects of life affect the masses. Even those who are not involved in party politics but are against political authoritarianism, tyranny can also relate to such protests,"says activist Marzia Prova. "The main objective of this protest was to include the general public in a movement for freedom of speech."

With the tagline, Gaan-kobita-natok-chhobite Bondi Shomoyer Chitkar, activists and participants from different backgrounds united together at Shahbagh on the afternoon of July 24.  Renowned journalist Shahidul Alam was also present at the protest. He talked about the importance of such initiatives in the long run.

"Our freedom of speech cannot be taken away from songs, poems, photos and other creative components," shares activist Liton Nandi. "This was not a mainstream cultural programme. Rather, it was a political and cultural protest."

Theatre troupe BotTola staged a play against the DSA, while Theatre 52 staged their street play, Shonali Fansher Golpo, based on the recent shutdown of jute mills.

Udichi, Charon Sangskritik Kendra, several artistes of Samageet and other independent artistes also participated at the protest. The DSA, along with several other recent government initiatives, questions the independence and constitutional rights of our citizens. This peaceful protest addressed these issues, in the hope to see positive changes in the future. Participants of the protest promised to continue such initiatives, for as long as they are needed.