The High Court in Bangladesh on Monday granted six months’ bail to Baul singer Abul Sarkar in a case alleging insult to religious sentiments.
The order was issued by a High Court bench comprising Justice Md Atowar Rahman and Justice Md Sagir Hossain during a hearing on a bail petition filed by the singer. The court also issued a rule asking why he should not be granted permanent bail and directed the relevant authorities to respond.
Abul Sarkar was represented by lawyer Gazi Kamrul Islam Sojal, while Deputy Attorney General Sultana Akter Rubi appeared for the state.
The case originates from a Palagan performance on 4 November at the Khala Pagli fair in the Jabra area of Ghior upazila in Manikganj. During the event, Abul Sarkar allegedly made remarks that were considered offensive to religious sentiments. A video of the performance later circulated on social media, leading to public criticism.
On the night of 19 November, he was arrested by members of the Manikganj Detective Branch police during a musical event in Madaripur. He was brought to the Manikganj District DB office the following morning.
Later that day, a complaint was filed against him by Mufti Md Abdullah at Ghior Police Station. Following the complaint, the Senior Judicial Magistrate Court of Manikganj placed him in remand.
After his arrest, Abul Sarkar applied to the High Court seeking bail, which resulted in Monday’s order granting him temporary relief while the case continues.
