Member of Parliament Saeed Al Noman from Chattogram-10 has formally requested the inclusion of recitation as an independent division under the Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy Ordinance 2026. In a demi-official letter sent to Cultural Affairs Minister Nitai Roy Chowdhury on Thursday, he emphasized that recitation is a vital part of the nation’s cultural identity and deserves institutional recognition. He confirmed the matter to the newspaper on Friday.

In his letter, Noman noted that although the number of divisions in the new ordinance has been increased from six to nine, recitation was not included as a separate category. He described this omission as unfortunate and concerning, arguing that it undermines an important cultural tradition. He highlighted that recitation plays a historic role in promoting the Bengali language and culture and helps nurture a humane and culturally aware generation.

Cultural enthusiasts across the country have welcomed the initiative, expressing hope that recognizing recitation as an independent division will invigorate the art form and strengthen Bangladesh’s literary and cultural continuity.