Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy Director General and theatre personality Syed Jamil Ahmed has resigned

Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy Director General and theatre personality Syed Jamil Ahmed has resigned. He announced his resignation at an event held at the Shilpakala Academy on Friday evening. He stated that he decided to resign as he was unable to work independently due to interference from the secretariat. Before taking charge in August, he had said, ‘I didn't want to take it at all. Adviser Asif Nazrul saheb called me. He explained it to me, and his words seemed important.

So many people have been martyred, now an opportunity for change has come. I am taking the responsibility out of accountability to the martyrs.’ Today he submitted his resignation letter to the ministry's Secretary Md. Wares Hossain. Explaining the reason for his resignation, Syed Jamil Ahmed said that he could not smoothly execute his work due to not receiving the necessary budget and cooperation from the ministry. Besides, he mentioned that he was barred from using the word "indigenous".

Immediately after submitting his resignation letter, he spoke about the rights of indigenous people and expressed his support for their struggle and fight. Jamil Ahmed was present as the chief guest at the closing ceremony of the 'Munier Chowdhury First National Theatre Festival' today. At the event, he handed over the resignation letter to Shilpakala Academy Secretary Md. Wares Hossain. However, the secretary stated that no official or employee of the Shilpakala Academy had accepted the resignation letter, but rather he had only received it in hand.

Regarding the resignation, Syed Jamil Ahmed said, "If they do not let me secure funds for Shilpakala Academy and create obstacles at every step, then there is no point in me staying here." He further said, "I now need to return to myself." Meanwhile, Ministry of Cultural Affairs Secretary Md. Mofidur Rahman stated that he has not yet received the resignation letter, but he is aware of the matter and will discuss it in detail after receiving the letter.