Tripura Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha and senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders have strongly condemned the recent attack on Rabindranath Tagore’s ancestral home in Shahjadpur, Bangladesh.
The incident, which shocked cultural communities across South Asia, involved vandalism at the historic residence of the Nobel laureate. BJP leaders have urged the Bangladesh government to ensure swift and strict action against the culprits.
Attack Sparks Outrage Across Borders
According to reports, a group of miscreants vandalized parts of the residence, which had been preserved as a tribute to Tagore’s literary legacy. Further, the Shahjadpur estate is one of the many places where Tagore lived and wrote some of his iconic works.
The attack sparked massive outrage, particularly in India, where the poet’s contributions are deeply respected.
Tripura CM Dr. Manik Saha, in a social media post, said:
“The attack on Gurudev Rabindranath Tagore’s ancestral home is not just a blow to Bengali heritage, but a disgraceful act against South Asia’s shared cultural legacy. I urge Bangladesh authorities to take strict action.”
BJP MP Biplab Kumar Deb Calls for Diplomatic Intervention
Former Tripura Chief Minister and current Rajya Sabha MP Biplab Kumar Deb also condemned the act. Also, he said this incident not only insults the Bengali people but is a matter of regional concern.
“We appeal to the Government of India to take this up diplomatically. Such incidents must not be repeated,” he said in a press statement.
Deb also expressed concern about the safety of other historic sites related to Indian culture in Bangladesh.
Cultural Leaders Join the Condemnation
Several intellectuals and literary figures from Tripura. Moreover, West Bengal have joined the BJP leaders in expressing concern.
Renowned poet and Sahitya Akademi awardee Chandrakanta Murasingh said:
“Rabindranath Tagore is not the property of any one nation. His legacy belongs to the world. Acts like this must be condemned in the strongest terms.”
In Agartala, candlelight vigils were held by cultural organizations and Tagore devotees in front of Rabindra Bhawan.
India-Bangladesh Relations: A Cultural Perspective
India and Bangladesh share a strong historical and cultural bond. Tagore, who penned both India’s national anthem Jana Gana Mana and Bangladesh’s national anthem Amar Shonar Bangla, is a symbol of that unity.
Many political analysts believe that Bangladesh must act quickly to prevent tensions over such incidents from impacting bilateral relations.
Official Communication Expected
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) is expected to issue an official statement. Sources said India may raise the issue formally through diplomatic channels.
In Bangladesh, officials from the Ministry of Cultural Affairs have reportedly begun an internal probe. They stated that the culprits would be brought to justice and that Tagore’s legacy would remain protected.
A Call to Preserve Shared History
The BJP in Tripura is planning to pass a resolution condemning the attack during its next organizational meeting.
CM Saha has asked educational institutions in Tripura to organize sessions on Tagore’s life and philosophy to reinforce his importance in Indo-Bangla cultural history.
Meanwhile, citizens from both sides of the border continue to express their shock and disappointment. Social media is flooded with calls for peace, respect, and preservation of shared heritage.
What You Can Do
Support efforts to preserve cultural heritage. Furthermore, attend local discussions and cultural events. Spread awareness about shared Indo-Bangla legacies and urge governments to protect historical sites.
For updates on international cultural incidents and diplomatic responses, follow Ministry of External Affairs and local news portals like TripuraInfo.