The attention of Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) has been drawn to a news item published in various print media regarding verification of manuscripts of books to be published in the month-long Amar Ekushey Book Fair that began in the city today.
In a statement today, the DMP requested all concerned to refrain from making unnecessary misinterpretation and propaganda on the issue.
The statement said a press briefing was organised on the security measures taken by DMP on the occasion of Amar Ekushey Book Fair 2025 on the fair premises on 31 January 2025.
In response to a question raised by a journalist present at the briefing, the attention of Bangla Academy was drawn to this issue.
Bangla Academy was requested to exercise caution in publishing any book that destroys communal harmony or is provocative, the statement said, adding that it is worth noting that many people had raised this issue in discussions with various stakeholders present at the preparatory meeting for organizing the book fair.
In fact, no consultation took place or no decision was taken regarding the vetting or approval, by the police, for the books to be published in future, it said.
Mentioning that Bangladesh is a country of communal harmony, the DMP statement said, "We always encourage creative activities like writing. We welcome the environment of open-mind practice and development.'
