At least 25 people were injured when unruly crowds attacked the venue during a concert by renowned musician James at Faridpur Zila School on Friday night, forcing the cancellation of the show marking the institution’s 185th anniversary.
James was scheduled to perform with his Nagar Baul band at the school premises around 9:30pm. Just before the concert began, a group of outsiders allegedly attempted to force their way into the venue. When stopped, they reportedly hurled bricks and stones and tried to seize the stage.
The attackers were later forced to retreat after facing resistance from students of Faridpur Zila School.
Around 10pm, Organizing Committee Convener Dr Mustafizur Rahman Shamim announced from the stage that the concert had been canceled on the instructions of the Faridpur deputy commissioner, citing the prevailing situation.
Rajibul Hasan Khan, convener of the anniversary event’s publicity and media sub-committee, said all preparations had been completed for the performance, but the identities and motives of the attackers remained unclear. He said between 15 and 20 students of Faridpur Zila School were injured by brickbats during the incident.
He added that the program was called off following directives from the district administration in view of the situation.
The two-day celebrations marking the school’s 185th anniversary began Thursday morning with the hoisting of national and celebration flags, rendition of the national anthem, oath-taking, and a colorful procession featuring banners, festoons, and horse carts through the city.
The festivities were scheduled to conclude Friday night with a raffle draw, cultural programs, and the concert by James’s band.
Established in 1840 during British rule, Faridpur Zila School is among the few government-initiated schools of that era and has played a significant role in the region’s education, culture, and social movements over its 185-year history.
