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A group of publishers has urged BNP Chairperson Tarique Rahman to reconsider the decision to hold the Amar Ekushey Book Fair during the upcoming month of Ramadan.
In an open letter signed by 14 publishers under the banner “Prokashok Oikya” (Publishers’ Unity) on Saturday (February 14), the signatories expressed “deep concern” over the plan to begin the fair on February 20 during Ramadan.
The publishers warned that attendance could drop significantly as schools, colleges and universities remain closed during the fasting month, raising fears the fair could see low footfall.
They claimed that nearly 90% of publishers believe participating under such circumstances would amount to “commercial suicide,” adding that more than 300 mainstream publishers have already indicated reluctance to join.
The letter said the publishing industry has been under severe strain over the past year and a half due to political and economic instability, rising paper prices and increased production costs. Printing presses were also preoccupied with election-related work in recent months, slowing new book releases.
Questioning why Bangla Academy remains firm on the schedule despite objections, the publishers clarified that they are not calling for a boycott. Instead, they proposed postponing the fair until after Eid to ensure broader participation and a vibrant atmosphere.
They expressed hope that the government would reconsider the decision to protect the publishing industry and uphold the tradition of the Ekushey Book Fair.
