Dhaka: The Cultural Affairs Ministry has revoked its ‘Book Selection Committee’ following widespread criticism on social media regarding the purchase of books during the tenure of former National Book Centre director, Afsana Begum. The committee, originally formed on November 11, 2025, was tasked with selecting books for donation to private libraries for the fiscal year 2025-2026, but has now been dissolved, as announced in an official release. The decision to revoke the committee is effective immediately.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the move comes after the government ended its appointment agreement with Afsana Begum, which led to increased scrutiny and criticism of the books purchased under her supervision. The controversy gained momentum online as lists of books acquired by the committee were shared, sparking a debate over the selection process.
Writer and analyst Maskwaith Ahsan voiced his disapproval on social media, condemning the committee for not selecting books on significant topics such as the July uprising, Philkhana, and the Shapla Tragedy. Ahsan accused the committee, under Afsana Begum’s supervision, of prioritizing books by writers and publishers with affiliations to the Awami League, while excluding works by authors who contributed to the July uprising.
In response to the controversy, Culture Secretary Md. Mofidur Rahman stated that a new committee would be formed soon. He emphasized that future book purchases would focus on themes related to the July mass uprising, Philkhana, and the Shapla tragedy during the current fiscal year.