Betagi (Barguna) Correspondent

The Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) of Betagi has come under scrutiny for involving performers from the Bangabandhu Cultural Alliance,  a cultural wing of the ruling Awami League—in the official celebration of Pahela Baishakh, the Bengali New Year.The event, held on Monday  in the Betagi Upazila Parishad premises, featured national and Baishakhi songs, followed by a vibrant rally through the main streets of the municipal town. Traditional festivities including panta-ilish (fermented rice with hilsa), cultural music, and dance performances marked the occasion, lasting from morning until noon.However, the participation of artists affiliated with a political organization has raised eyebrows among many in the community. Critics allege that the administration may be attempting to “rehabilitate” Awami League activists under the guise of cultural promotion.Multiple attendees—who requested anonymity—expressed concern, stating that inviting performers from what they labeled a “fascist political organization” was inappropriate for a national and government-sponsored event.The performers were associated with the Bangabandhu Cultural Alliance, led  by Sanjay Halder, who serves both as the Cultural Secretary of the Betagi Upazila Awami League and General Secretary of the local Bangabandhu Cultural Alliance unit. Artists under his coordination performed throughout the event.In response to the criticism, Sanjay Halder said, “We were invited as artists, not as political representatives. Our political affiliation should not be the focal point.”When asked about the controversy, Betagi UNO Md. Bashir Gazi stated, “I was unaware of the performers' affiliation with the Bangabandhu Cultural Alliance.”The event was attended by a diverse audience, including government officials, representatives from BNP and its affiliate organizations, Jamaat-e-Islami members, civil society leaders, volunteers, journalists, and students.While the cultural celebration was meant to reflect unity and heritage, the presence of politically affiliated performers has sparked a wider debate over neutrality in government-sponsored events.