Amar Ekushey Book Fair to go ahead on schedule

ByEnigma 808

Bangladesh will proceed with the Amar Ekushey Book Fair as scheduled, despite minor adjustments needed due to current conditions, Chief Adviser Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam confirmed on Sunday. He addressed publishers and writers at the National Press Club, stating Bangla Academy will coordinate with the Culture Ministry to finalize arrangements acceptable to all stakeholders.

Alam criticized previous government practices where certain publishers profited from books about the Sheikh family, forcing readers to purchase material that failed to advance knowledge. He said one journalist alone sold 11 crore taka worth of such publications over 15 years, distorting the fair’s educational purpose.

The secretary emphasized that this year’s event must showcase diverse subjects, from history and science to literature and poetry, without publishing restrictions. Readers deserve freedom to select books that genuinely expand their understanding rather than face coercion.

Sayeed Bari from the Anti-Discrimination Creative Book Publishers Association moderated the discussion. Alam revealed covers for 17 upcoming titles at the gathering.

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    Besides writing and being a content creator, Enigma 808 sometimes likes to watch paint dry on walls, listening to ASMR while timing snails racing. Such is life.