CCTV Review Underway as Govt Vows Action Over Chhayanaut Attack
Cultural Affairs Adviser Mostofa Sarwar Farooki has said that all individuals involved in the attack and looting at the Chhayanaut building are being identified through CCTV footage, and steps are underway to bring them to justice.
Farooki made the remarks while visiting the Chhayanaut premises in Shankar, Dhanmondi, on Friday afternoon (December 19). During the visit, he inspected the damaged areas and held discussions with Chhayanaut organiser Partha Tanvir Naved and other officials of the institution.
Speaking to journalists after the inspection, the cultural adviser said that law enforcement agencies are reviewing CCTV footage to identify every person involved. He noted that the attackers caused significant damage to the building and assured that the government would provide all necessary support, including financial assistance, to ensure that Chhayanaut can resume its activities swiftly after repairs are completed.
He added that the Chhayanaut executive committee would assess the extent of the damage internally and submit detailed information to the authorities.
On security measures, Farooki said that maximum security arrangements have been put in place. Members of the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) and police have been deployed outside the premises, and the issue has been discussed with other members of the advisory council.
Responding to a question, he said the incident appeared to be a deliberate attempt to disrupt the upcoming election. “The focus today should have been on martyr Osman Hadi. Instead, attacks on Prothom Alo, The Daily Star and Chhayanaut diverted attention. We are investigating who orchestrated these incidents,” he said, adding that those responsible do not want Bangladesh to move toward democratic transition.
Farooki further stated that during this period of national mourning, a reckless group carried out the attack to destabilise the country. He described the assault on Chhayanaut as not only a criminal offence but also an act contrary to the spirit of the July mass uprising, particularly when carried out under the pretext of Osman Hadi’s death.
DBTech/BN/EK/OR
