The 136th death anniversary observance of the legendary mystic philosopher Fakir Lalon Shah in Kushtia's Cheuria concluded under heavy security and palpable tension following the recovery of a time bomb from the shrine premises. The alarming incident on the final day of the three-day festival triggered widespread panic among devotees, leading to an abrupt and early departure of ascetics, followers, and visitors from the sacred grounds.
The three-day commemorative event had drawn thousands of Bauls, Fakirs, and cultural enthusiasts from across the country since Saturday. Sunday marked the peak of congregation with massive gatherings inside and around the Akhrabari. However, deep into the night around 1:30 AM, intelligence and security protocols were triggered following reports of an abandoned bag containing explosive materials within the enclosure. Law enforcement agencies immediately cordoned off the entire perimeter to ensure public safety.
Responding swiftly to the emergency, a specialized bomb disposal unit from Dhaka arrived at the scene on Monday morning and successfully neutralized the device, averting a potential catastrophe. In the wake of the incident, security around the Lalon shrine was dramatically escalated. Alongside reinforced local police units, two platoons of the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) were deployed to maintain strict surveillance and public order across the venue.
The tense atmosphere severely impacted the closing ceremonies. By Monday noon, the normally vibrant Akhrabari courtyard, which usually buzzes with spiritual songs and philosophical discourses until the very end, stood virtually deserted. Many resident devotees and visiting pilgrims packed their belongings and left at the earliest opportunity, unnerved by the security threat. Local administration and police officials assured that a thorough investigation is underway to identify the culprits behind the placement of the explosive device and to determine any underlying motives.
