A group using the banner ‘Towhidi Janata’ has called for a traditional boat race on the Sunai River in Sylhet’s Beanibazar to be cancelled, setting up a dispute with organisers who say the event will go ahead on Aug 28.
According to sources, local youths from Lauta and Bahadur villages have been preparing for the annual boat race, which traditionally attracts thousands of spectators and creates a festive atmosphere in the riverside communities.
A group calling itself ‘Towhidi Janata’ held a meeting at Barigram Bazar Mosque last Thursday and demanded that the boat race be stopped.
Local residents said the race has been a longstanding source of entertainment and is held every year. The opposition to this year’s event has sparked discussion and tension in the area.
Former Lauta Union Parishad chairman Gaus Uddin said efforts were underway to resolve the issue through discussions with both sides and prevent any escalation.
Lauta Union Parishad Chairman Delwar Hossain said he had seen discussions for and against the event on Facebook but had no further information.
Beanibazar Upazila Nirbahi Officer Umme Habiba Majumder said she had looked into the matter after learning about the cancellation demand.
According to her, the opposing group cited a killing that occurred in connection with last year’s boat race as the reason for their demand.
However, the UNO said the boat race is a traditional sport and the administration would provide necessary support if the organizers obtain permission and inform the authorities and law enforcement agencies.
Beanibazar police said the situation was being monitored and that the UNO was working to address the issue.