Faridpur (Bangladesh): A concert by veteran Bangladeshi rock musician James was cancelled on Friday night after violence erupted at the venue during anniversary celebrations of Faridpur Zilla School, leaving at least 20 people injured and triggering panic among attendees.
The concert was scheduled as part of the 185th anniversary programme of the historic educational institution and was to be the concluding highlight of the two-day celebrations. James, popularly known as Nagar Baul, was set to perform before a large gathering of students, alumni and local residents.
According to organisers and eyewitnesses, trouble began shortly before the performance when a group of people described as outsiders attempted to enter the venue without permission. When security personnel and volunteers stopped them, the situation escalated rapidly, with the group allegedly throwing bricks and stones towards the stage and audience area.
Students present at the venue resisted the attackers and tried to protect the stage and event premises. During the clashes, several people were injured after being hit by brickbats, with most of the injured reported to be students. The violence caused chaos and fear among those present, forcing many to flee the area.
As the situation worsened, organisers decided to call off the concert following instructions from the district administration. The announcement was made around 10 pm, citing concerns over safety and law and order.
James and members of his team were escorted out of the venue safely and were not injured in the incident. Medical assistance was provided to those wounded during the clashes, and while no fatalities were reported, several injuries required treatment.
Police later reached the spot to bring the situation under control. However, by then the programme had already been cancelled and the crowd dispersed.
The Faridpur Zilla School anniversary celebrations had begun earlier with ceremonial events including flag hoisting, the national anthem and a procession involving students and former students. The disruption of the concert cast a shadow over the celebrations and raised concerns about security arrangements at public cultural events.
The incident comes amid a broader atmosphere of unrest in parts of Bangladesh, with increasing reports of disruptions and attacks on public gatherings and cultural programmes. Authorities have not yet disclosed details regarding the identity of those responsible for the violence or whether any arrests have been made.
