Lalon followers send open letter to PM with 8 demands

Lalon followers have sent an open letter to Prime Minister Tarique Rahman seeking smooth celebration of the Dol Purnima festival.

In the letter published on Saturday, it was stated, "On the occasion of the holy Dol Purnima on March 3, important programmes of the ascetic community will be held at Lalon's Akhra and various other places across the country. During his lifetime, Fakir Lalon Shah himself used to observe this festival. It is noteworthy that humanists worldwide, transcending religious, caste and creed differences, observe this full moon."

The Lalon followers have put forward eight key demands in the letter, which include—

Ensuring spiritual freedom: Lalon ascetics and Baul community must be able to freely conduct their spiritual practices and programmes. Followers must be allowed to express devotion to Lalon's philosophy regardless of religion or caste.

Strengthening security measures: Adequate security must be ensured at Akhra premises and important shrines during Dol Purnima and other ascetic observances.

Protection of Akhra premises: Legal protection must be ensured for registered Akhras including Lalon Akhra in Cheuriya. Effective measures must be taken to prevent any kind of occupation or harassment.

Prevention of harassment and defamation: Strict action must be taken against hate speech, propaganda or social provocation directed at Bauls and ascetics.

Ensuring freedom of movement: Administrative cooperation must be ensured for ascetics travelling and conducting programmes in various districts of the country.

Formation of government coordination committee: A monitoring and programme coordination committee must be formed comprising the Ministry of Cultural Affairs, local administration and Lalon organisations.

Ascetic welfare fund: Initiatives must be taken to provide healthcare support and minimum welfare assistance for elderly and indigent ascetics.

Reconstruction of Lalon Akhra shrine: Space constraints at the mausoleum become acute during festivals. Arrangements must be made to reconstruct the mausoleum building after consulting Lalon follower ascetics.

The letter was submitted by Amjad Hossain, General Secretary of Lalon Academy, on behalf of 13 organisations. Notable among these organisations are: Lalon Academy, Lalon Sebakh Sangstha, Lalon Sebasond, Eso Gori Ashar Alo, Ayna Mohol, Lalon Sahitya Charcha Kendra, Bhabashram, Bishwa Lalon Sangha in Kushtia; Daulat Shah Foundation in Meherpur; Jatiya Sadhu Sangsad, Sholo Aana Bangalee in Dhaka; Bhab, Adhyatma O Bodhi Charcha Kendra; and Parghat Ayna Mohol in Chuadanga.