Mosque committee's notice 'banning' music sparks row, withdrawn after backlash

A notice issued by a mosque committee in Terarsia Poragram under Islampur union in Chapainawabganj Sadar upazila 'banning' songs, music and musical instruments has sparked intense controversy. After the notice circulated on social media, the administration took cognisance of the matter and acted swiftly.

According to local sources, a notice signed by 34 members of the Terarsia Poragram Jame Mosque committee and villagers was recently put up at the Mohananda New Bridge crossing in the village. It stated that 'to protect the village environment, the morality of the youth and family peace', songs, music and 'obscene culture' were declared harmful and forbidden (haram) from the perspective of Islam. The notice warned that anyone playing musical instruments would face 'legal action'.

However, the notice did not mention any date or specify under which law what action would be taken.

After learning of the incident, police and local administration took swift action. Sadar Police Station Officer-in-Charge Nure Alam said, "After learning of the incident three days ago, police went to the mosque and spoke with the imam and others concerned. The committee expressed regret that the matter was not 'right' and pledged not to take such steps in the future. We have seized the banners and posters containing the notice and issued a strict warning to the committee."

Upazila Executive Officer Maruf Afzal Rajan said those involved were summoned as soon as the incident came to light. Last Thursday, March 5, the mosque's imam, committee members and 10 representatives of villagers came to the UNO office and expressed regret. They have pledged to submit a resolution on this matter within March 9.

Local UP ward member Ziaul Haque said, "I heard about the notice being put up about 10 days ago, but came to know about it on Facebook about a week ago. We are investigating who was involved in the incident and why such a decision was taken."

The UNO further said, "It seems they did this out of excessive emotion. However, they did not take any steps against music after issuing the notice. The mosque committee has been clearly informed that they cannot do such things."