Cultural activists in Bangladesh on Friday demanded that 2% of the national budget be allocated to the cultural sector and called for the introduction of music, dance, drama, fine arts and physical education in all educational institutions, along with the recruitment of specialized teachers.

The demands were raised during a human chain and rally organized by the Charan Cultural Center at the National Press Club in Dhaka.

The event was chaired by Charan President Nikhil Das and moderated by General Secretary Zakir Hossain. Speakers included Vice Presidents poet Kamruzzaman Bhuiyan and Abdullah Al Mamun Tazu, and Office Secretary Jasim Uddin.

Addressing the gathering, speakers criticized the government's latest national budget announced on June 11, saying only 8.26 billion taka ($67.8 million) had been allocated to the culture sector out of a total budget of 9.38 trillion taka.

They argued that the allocation amounted to less than one-tenth of 1% of the budget and was inadequate to support cultural development, demanding that the share be increased to at least 2%.

The speakers claimed that a lack of cultural engagement has contributed to rising drug abuse among young people, the spread of juvenile gangs and extremist tendencies, and broader social problems.

They also alleged that a "communal fundamentalist group" has been obstructing cultural activities, attacking Baul performers, campaigning against music, dance and sports, and harassing women.

The group further criticized the reported cancellation of a proposal to appoint music teachers in primary schools.

Charan leaders urged the government to promote cultural awareness nationwide and establish cultural facilities, including auditoriums, open stages and branches of the Shilpakala Academy, from district to union levels.

They called on lawmakers to approve a proposal allocating 2% of the national budget to culture.

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