Faridpur: A live performance by renowned Bangladeshi musician James was called off in Faridpur late Friday night after unrest broke out at a school anniversary event, leaving at least 25 people injured. The incident occurred during celebrations marking 185 years of Faridpur Zilla School, one of the country’s oldest educational institutions.
The concert was scheduled as the highlight of the closing ceremony and was set to begin around 9.30 pm on the school campus. However, moments before the singer was to appear on stage, a large group of individuals who were not part of the registered audience attempted to enter the venue. When security personnel stopped them, tensions escalated rapidly.
Eyewitnesses said the crowd gathered along a nearby road and began hurling bricks and stones toward the school premises and the stage area. Students and organisers inside the venue tried to hold back the attackers, while volunteers attempted to shield attendees. Several people were injured during the chaos, including students who were struck by debris.
Organisers later announced from the stage that the performance had been cancelled following instructions from the district administration, citing safety concerns amid the volatile situation. Local officials said the decision was taken to prevent further injuries and restore order.
Members of the organising committee said extensive preparations had been made for the event but expressed shock over the violence. They added that it was still unclear who instigated the attack or what prompted the aggression.
The two-day anniversary programme had begun on Thursday with cultural events and reunions for current and former students, and was meant to conclude with music performances and a raffle draw. Faridpur Zilla School, established in 1840 during British rule, holds a prominent place in the region’s educational and cultural history.
