Adviser Mostofa Sarwar Farooki has said that the arson attack on the Pahela Baishakh parade effigies at the Faculty of Fine Arts was a direct challenge to the July Movement. “These acts were committed by fascist sympathizers,” he said. He assured the public that the perpetrators will be apprehended swiftly. Cutting short his Sylhet trip, Farooki added that this year’s Baishakh celebrations will be inclusive of all religions and communities, aiming to reintroduce the nation through unity. Urging spontaneous participation in the festivities, he said, “This is not a time for fear or hesitation. Law enforcement is ready to ensure a festive and secure atmosphere.”