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| Mass Convention organized by ‘Boimela Porisor’. 22/01/2025 |
Today's Mass Convention organized by ‘Boimela Porisor’ at Theosophical Society Hall, Kolkata addressed the troubling transformation of the traditional Kolkata Book Fair, which has increasingly been perceived as a commercial venture rather than a celebration of literature and culture. Attendees expressed their deep concern over the monopolization of the fair by selective individuals and families, supported by the ruling party, which has drastically altered its original purpose.
Historically, the Kolkata Book Fair served as a vibrant platform for artistic expression, protest, fostering connections among literature enthusiasts through magazines, songs, poems, and visual arts. However, the recent commercialization has led to the imposition of stringent regulations and a culture of profit-driven motives, overshadowing the fair's foundational ideals.
Speakers at the convention highlighted the severe limitations placed on freedom of expression within the fair. With the introduction of various governmental restrictions, the opportunities for open dialogue and protest demonstrations have dwindled. Participants lamented the absence of a free stage for expression, where discussions could take place without fear of government scrutiny or censorship. The environment has shifted from one of creativity to a controlled atmosphere dominated by commercial interests.
One of the key issues raised was the exclusion of the Association for Protection of Democratic Rights (APDR), which has long been a voice for dissenting opinions at the fair. Due to its lack of registration, APDR has faced arbitrary exclusion, which many attendees believe is a deliberate attempt to silence anti-establishment voices. The convention underscored that this exclusion is not only an attack on APDR but on the very essence of the book fair itself.
Furthermore, the convention condemned the barring of Bangladeshi publishers from this year's fair. Reports of intimidation tactics aimed at preventing these publishers from participating were met with disapproval from the attendees, who called for an inclusive approach toward literature and cultural exchange.
The recent ruling by the Kolkata High Court, which deemed the book fair a private event rather than a public one, was met with widespread criticism. Participants argued that the fair operates under significant government oversight, contradicting the court's judgment. The convention demanded that the book fair be officially recognized as a government undertaking, emphasizing the need for transparency and accountability in its management.
In response to the ongoing challenges, the convention outlined a series of demands, including
1. Recognition of the Kolkata International Book Fair as a government initiative.
2. Elimination of compulsory registration or licensing for participation.
3. Reduction of stall rental fees for smaller publishers and provision of free tables for Little Magazines.
4. A cessation of police harassment and the safeguarding of freedom of expression.
5. Public accountability for all financial dealings related to the fair.
6. The reinstatement of APDR and other excluded organizations.
To amplify their message, the assembly announced plans for a protest march from College Street to Dharmatala on January 28, coinciding with the book fair's opening day. This march aims to draw attention to the demands for free speech, cultural integrity and inclusivity within the fair, ultimately striving to restore its original spirit as a democratic place for literary appreciation and cultural exchange.
The Mass Convention stands united in its call for a reevaluation of the book fair's management and purpose, ensuring that it remains a space for all voices and creative expressions in Bengal.
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