Artist Manabendra's home set on fire in Manikganj

Unidentified miscreants allegedly set fire to the home of artist Manabendra Ghosh in the Garpara Bazar area of Manikganj Sadar upazila late on Tuesday night (April 15).

Law enforcement agencies are investigating the fire incident at the house of painter.

The incident is believed to be linked to a recent controversy surrounding an artwork displayed by Ghosh during Pahela Baishakh celebrations in Dhaka. Allegations surfaced claiming the artist had created an effigy resembling ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. However, Ghosh firmly denied the accusation, stating that his work only featured a tiger motif, not any political figure.

In a Facebook status posted on Wednesday (April 16), Ghosh wrote, "Our house has been set on fire." Speaking to reporters later, Ghosh expressed concern for his safety: "My family and I are living in fear for our lives. I urge the government to intervene immediately."

Superintendent of Police of Manikganj Yasmin Khatun informed that police have already visited the scene, said a statement issued by the Chief Adviser's Press Wing today. The probe into the fire is ongoing, and action will be taken as soon as possible if evidence of anyone's involvement is found to this end, she said.

Deputy Commissioner of Manikganj Monwar Hossain Mollah said the exact reason behind the fire will be determined through the investigation as the burnt house will be rebuilt at the initiative of the district administration.

The fire completely burnt one room of the house of artist Manabendra Ghosh on Tuesday late night, his family members claimed.

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