Police intervened to disperse a human chain organized by artists and cultural activists in Dhaka’s Dhanmondi 27 area on Tuesday afternoon, detaining former Chhatra Union president Dipak Shil during the event.

The demonstration, planned to start at 4 p.m. under the banner “Protesting Artists and People,” was held to express opposition to a series of attacks on Baul singers and cultural events occurring in various parts of the country. These incidents have been reportedly carried out by groups identifying themselves as “Tawhidi Janata.”

Authorities deployed a significant police presence at the venue from early afternoon. According to actress Sumona Shoma, who participated in the protest, police prohibited the chanting of the slogan “Joy Bangla.” She said officers informed them that the slogan had been “ruined.”

When protesters challenged the police over this restriction, Sumona said officers forcibly moved the participants toward a police vehicle, resulting in the detention of Dipak Shil, who was then taken away in a police van.

Following Shil’s arrest, Sumona continued to chant “Joy Bangla” at the site. She also reported being confronted by a group of young men who attempted to prevent her from chanting the slogan, claiming it was not permitted in that location.

The protest and ensuing police response highlight ongoing tensions surrounding cultural expression and the safety of traditional performers in Bangladesh. Authorities have not issued a detailed statement explaining the reasons for the intervention or the detention of Dipak Shil.