Rabindra Kachharibari reopens to visitors

The Rabindra Kachharibari in Shahjadpur, Sirajganj has reopened to visitors following a recent altercation on the premises that authorities say stemmed from a personal conflict—not a communal or political dispute.

In a statement issued on Friday, the Ministry of Cultural Affairs confirmed that the June 8 incident involved a misunderstanding between an on-duty employee and a visitor, which escalated into a physical confrontation. The visitor, identified as Shahnewaz, reportedly had an argument with site custodian Habibur Rahman of the Department of Archaeology.

Rahman has been accused of assaulting and detaining Shahnewaz. While investigations are ongoing, the ministry stressed that the incident was personal in nature and not politically or communally motivated.

On June 10, local residents organized a human chain in support of Shahnewaz, calling for action against the official involved. Following the protest, a group entered the site and allegedly attempted to assault staff members, resulting in injuries to several employees.

In response, both the district administration and the Department of Archaeology launched separate investigations, with reports expected within five days. A case has been filed, and police have arrested five individuals so far, with efforts continuing to apprehend others.

The ministry confirmed that no damage was done to any artifacts or memorabilia associated with Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore. “Nothing disrespectful or damaging to the honor of the poet has occurred,” the statement said.

Thanks to enhanced security measures and cooperation from local authorities, the historic site reopened to visitors this morning.

The ministry also noted that Tagore’s 164th birth anniversary was commemorated with due solemnity and cultural programs at Kachharibari, as well as at other Tagore-related heritage sites in Shilaidaha (Kushtia) and Patisar (Naogaon).