“We will not let Alauddin Ali and Andrew Kishore’s contributions go to waste” – Hamin Ahmed on BLCPS

Bangladesh Lyricist, Composers and Performers Society (BLCPS) was founded in 2014, as Bangladesh's first proper CMO (Collective Management Organisation). The organisation recently started registration in order to protect artistes' intellectual property rights. The Daily Star caught up with founding member, legendary band Miles' singer and guitarist Hamin Ahmed for more information. 

Even though BLCPS was founded in 2014, it has recently started full-fledged registration. What was the reason for the delay?

There were many structural barriers that we had to overcome. We had to first complete a 27-month evaluation in accordance with international guidelines, as well as set up a good understanding with the ministry, copyright office and other authorities. I am happy to say that we are now enlisted by World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO) and International Confederation of Societies of Authors and Composers (CISAC).  

Photo: Sheikh Mehedi Morshed

Due to the lack of structure in royalty disbursement, some people mislead artistes for their own gain. How does BLCPS plan to face these challenges going forward?

At the moment, opportunists, who are mostly outsiders to the music and film industries pose a huge threat to the industry. You are aware that most of the musicians and artistes took a stand against such opportunists a few days ago. BLCPS is working day and night to create a proper structure, where we will collect royalties for artistes from sources like television, radio and even cafes, which make use of their intellectual property. We even have the legislation to call a task force if a creator is exploited. It might take time, but we are on the right path to root out any place for these miscreants to create confusion.

Is the aforementioned controversy a reason behind the renewed drive for BLCPS?

In part, yes. The recent passing of legends like Alauddin Ali and Andrew Kishore, who were devoted members and patrons of the organisation, also contributed to our emotional drive. We will not let their efforts go to waste. BLCPS is not owned by anyone – it is a community which serves to ensure artistes their due.

Is registration for BLCPS open to everyone?

Any composer, lyricist or performing artist can join our organisation. We have already received amazing response from people all over the country. People from outside Dhaka are coming to register with us. We will keep working until we can set the tone for the rest of the entertainment industry to follow.