Motifs burnt at Charukola: Farooki blames ‘Hasina’s cohorts’

Mostofa Sarwar Farooki, adviser to the Ministry of Cultural Affairs, has blamed former prime minister Sheikh Hasina's cohorts for the fire that burnt two motifs at Dhaka University's Faculty of Fine Arts (Charukola) early today.

In a Facebook post today, Farooki alleged that the act was carried out by "Hasina's enablator", targeting a sculpture representing the face of fascism.

"Whoever committed this act—whether it is the soft Awami League or their B Team—every one of them must be brought under the law, without delay."

He further said, "Those working on behalf of the Awami League to obstruct this procession—we will not only bring them under the law, but also ensure that this year's procession becomes even more meaningful."

"Following last night's incident, Hasina's associates have made it clear—they do not want to see the people of Bangladesh come together in celebration. We are now more determined than ever, and we will participate in even greater numbers," he added.

Referencing recent discussions among supporters of the July Movement, he said, "Many felt this year's procession is shaping up to be the most inclusive and distinct so far. Some even believed it would be better to exclude that grotesque face of fascism. We were considering all viewpoints and trying to understand the university authority's position."

"But after last night's attack, the presence of that monster has become all the more inevitable," he added.

Farooki concluded his post by stating, "July is in motion."