'Political uncertainty' shadows 1971 books at Ekushey Fair

The Amar Ekushey Book Fair management committee has not included any titles related to the 1971 Liberation War in its official tally, despite 136 books having been released in the first four days of the fair.

At least nine new books on the subject have already hit the stalls, with several more currently in the pipeline, bdnews24.com learned during a visit to the fair ground.

Researchers and historians suggest that recent political instability and prevalence of "mob" activity, which many perceived as disrespecting the legacy of the Liberation War, have created an atmosphere of uncertainty, leading to a decline in publications related to the Liberation War.

Many authors and publishers were in a state of hesitation or doubt about releasing books on the Liberation War due to the recent political climate and instances where the history of 1971 was treated with disparagement, they said.

Scholars, however, noted that while physical copies are fewer this year, extensive research on the war has continued, much of which is expected to be published in the coming months.

Monday marked the fifth day of the month-long event, with the fairgrounds open from 2pm to 9pm.

According to the fair's information centre, 40 new titles were officially submitted on Monday alone.

Publishers indicated that while the initial rollout has been slow, they expect the number of history and research-based books to pick up as the fair progresses into its second week.

While official records show a void, several publishers have introduced new research and memoirs.

Notable releases include Salek Khokon's Muktijuddhe Abinashi Ghotonamala (Kothaprokash), Tania Urmee's Setare Swadhinotar Sur (Batighar), and Muntasir Mamun's 1971: Oboruddho Deshe Spartacus (Ananya).

Other titles include a commemorative volume on Martyr Intellectual Lutfur Rahman (Suborna).

Salek Khokon noted that recent "mob" incidents and disrespect toward the history of 1971 have caused authors to hesitate.
"A favourable state environment is essential for researchers to work without fear," he said.    �"bdnews24