Tourists allegedly forced to leave Utmachhara tourist spot

Allegations have surfaced that a group of locals forcibly removed tourists from the popular Utmachhara tourist site in Companiganj Upazila of Sylhet. The incident occurred on the afternoon of Sunday, June 8 — the second day of Eid — in the Charar Bazar area of Uttar Ranikhai Union. A video of the confrontation has since gone viral on social media, sparking widespread criticism and debate.

According to local sources, both residents and visitors from outside the area had gathered at Utmachhara to celebrate Eid. However, a group of individuals reportedly approached the tourists, blocked their access, and asked them to leave the area.

In the viral video, one individual was heard saying that local religious leaders and residents have jointly decided to shut down the area as a tourist destination. “Drinking and immoral behavior are polluting the environment here,” the man states. “We request you to leave.”

Another portion of the video shows Mufti Ruhul Amin Siraji, acting president of Jubo Jamiat’s Companiganj Upazila branch, addressing the crowd. He says, “We respectfully ask that no one come here for tourism in the future. Please also inform your acquaintances that, as per the community's decision, tourism in Utmachhara has been suspended.”

Repeated attempts to contact Mufti Ruhul Amin Siraji for comment were unsuccessful.

When approached for a statement, Sylhet Deputy Commissioner Sher Mahbub Murad informed that the Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) has been directed to investigate the incident and provide a detailed report. “The UNO will speak with all relevant parties and submit a report to us,” he said.

The Deputy Commissioner added, “We believe this is an isolated incident and hope it won’t discourage tourists from visiting the area.”