Rights body Ain o Salish Kendra (ASK) has voiced deep concern and condemnation over the cancellation of a film screening in Brahmanbaria and the suspension of a Baul music programme in Netrokona following pressure from groups opposed to the events.

"Such actions constitute a direct interference with cultural freedom and the fundamental rights of citizens," ASK said in a statement today.

Citing several articles of the constitution, the rights body said all citizens are equal before the law, and the freedoms of thought, conscience, speech and expression are guaranteed.

It said cultural activities, as well as the practice of arts and literature, are inseparable components of these fundamental rights.

There is no scope to curtail these constitutionally and internationally recognised rights under pressure from any group, ASK said.

ASK further said it believes that the state has a constitutional obligation to protect the cultural and expressive rights of all citizens and to ensure that no individual, group or ideological pressure can bypass the rule of law and obstruct cultural activities in public spaces.

The active and impartial role of state institutions is essential for safeguarding cultural diversity and freedom of expression, it added.

ASK also said that while differing opinions or criticism regarding cultural events and artistic practices are legitimate democratic rights, it is never acceptable to use intimidation, coercion, propaganda or unlawful influence to shut down any cultural activity.

Such tendencies not only harm individuals or specific events but also, in the long run, undermine cultural tolerance, pluralism and democratic values in society, it added.

ASK called upon the government authorities to ensure the security of all cultural events and to take effective, visible and exemplary measures to prevent the recurrence of such incidents in the future.