Dhaka, Nov 11 (V7N) — Cultural activists under the banner of the Ekushey Boi Mela Sangram Parishad have demanded that the Ekushey Book Fair be inaugurated on February 1, maintaining its long-standing tradition.

The demand was made at a gathering of writers, readers, and publishers held at Shahbagh in the capital on Tuesday (November 11).

Speakers at the rally urged the authorities to organize the fair on schedule and to reduce stall rents, noting that high costs discourage publishers from participating.

They said the book fair has been held with pride and consistency for 54 years, even during the COVID-19 pandemic. “But this interim government is delaying the fair using the excuse of elections,” one speaker said, adding that while the government can ensure security for the trade fair, it seems “unwilling” to do the same for the book fair.

Criticizing the Ministry of Culture, the speakers alleged that its activities appeared “immature” and claimed that a “malicious group” was misleading the government regarding the fair’s timing.

They also accused the authorities of showing indifference toward cultural heritage, saying, “The government is holding drone shows in the name of culture but neglecting the nation’s largest literary event.”

After the rally, participants marched towards Jamuna to submit a memorandum to the Chief Advisor, demanding the fair’s timely inauguration and stakeholder consultation.

END/SMA/AJ