‘Face of Fascism’ burnt in fire at Charukala

Two symbolic motifs that were being constructed for the Bangla New Year’s procession at the Faculty of Fine Arts (Charukala), University of Dhaka, have been burnt in a fire.

Among them were a “Face of Fascism” and a “Dove of Peace.”

The fire broke out at the spot around 4:45 pm on Saturday (April 12).

The under-construction “Face of Fascism” sculpture

A fine arts student said, “The construction work on this (‘Face of Fascism’) was almost finished. The remaining work would have been completed by today. This is undoubtedly a conspiracy.”

Dhaka University Assistant Proctor Md Israfil said, “The Face of Fascist was intentionally set to fire. The entire figure was burned. At the same time, the dove motif was also burned.”

“The fire was set to the two symbolic motifs during the Fajr prayers. We informed the fire service soon after the incident. But it had burned down before the fire service arrived. The fire was set intentionally. However, it is unclear who did the job. Appropriate action will be taken after an investigation.”

The peace dove was partially damaged in the fire

Professor Azharul Sheikh, Dean of the Faculty of Fine Arts, also confirmed the matter and said, “An investigation committee will be formed to find out the real culprits involved.”

This year’s New Year theme was based on the spirit of the July-August mass uprising: “The Symphony of New Year, End of Fascism.” The central motif was the “Face of Fascism”.