Islamist Mob Attacks Rock Concert in Bangladesh, 20 Injured in Faridpur

A celebratory cultural programme in Bangladesh descended into chaos late Friday night after an Islamist mob attacked a rock concert in Faridpur district, leaving at least 20 people injured and forcing organisers to abruptly cancel the event.

The violence broke out just minutes before legendary Bangladeshi rock musician James, popularly known as Nagar Baul, was scheduled to perform at the 185th anniversary celebrations of Faridpur Zilla School. The concert had attracted thousands of students, alumni and residents, and was expected to be the grand finale of the two-day event.

Attack moments before showtime

According to eyewitnesses and local officials, the incident occurred around 9:30 pm when a group of outsiders attempted to forcibly enter the school campus. When organisers and security personnel stopped them, the group allegedly turned violent, hurling bricks and stones towards the stage and the audience.

Panic spread rapidly across the venue as people scrambled for safety. Most of the injured were students who had gathered near the stage area. Several sustained head and limb injuries after being struck by brickbats. Students reportedly resisted the attackers and managed to push them out of the campus following tense scuffles.

Event cancelled amid law and order concerns

As the situation worsened, the district administration intervened. Around 10 pm, the organising committee announced that the concert was being cancelled on administrative orders, citing serious law and order concerns.

James was escorted out of the venue under security cover and was reported to be safe. None of the artist’s band members were injured. Organisers said they were left shocked by the sudden outbreak of violence, adding that all preparations for the programme had been completed well in advance.

An organiser said between 15 and 25 students were injured in the incident, though the exact number is still being verified. Authorities said they were yet to formally establish the identities or affiliations of the attackers.

Opposition to cultural events suspected

Local accounts suggested that the attackers opposed music and cultural programmes and had demanded that such events be stopped. While police have not officially confirmed the motive, the attack has raised fresh concerns about growing intolerance towards cultural expression in parts of Bangladesh.

Police maintained a heavy presence in the area after the incident, and the situation was brought under control later in the night. There was no immediate confirmation of arrests.

The disrupted concert was meant to conclude celebrations marking 185 years of Faridpur Zilla School, one of the oldest government educational institutions in Bangladesh, established in 1840 during the British era. The anniversary events included flag hoisting, cultural programmes, processions and alumni gatherings, all of which were cut short following the violence.