Banglabazar:University Press Limited (UPL) has reported that two of its sales employees were harassed at its Banglabazar showroom by a group demanding the cessation of sales for Sheikh Mujibur Rahman's book, "The Unfinished Memoirs." The group falsely claimed the book was banned. According to United News of Bangladesh, the incident took place around 5:30 p.m. on Monday, when the group entered the showroom and acted aggressively, insisting that the marketing of the book be halted. The showroom's shutter was pulled down, and the employees were harassed before being taken to a nearby police outpost, where they were detained briefly and then released. UPL clarified that "The Unfinished Memoirs" is not banned and emphasized that any book ban requires a specific legal process, involving notification to all concerned parties and formal legal action. UPL stated it was unaware of any such proceedings regarding this book. The publisher expressed readiness to comply with legal measures if the government or courts tak e formal action concerning the book. UPL labeled the incident as "extremely shameful and unfortunate," noting that it has faced pressure over its publications under various governments. Despite previous objections from different entities, UPL has maintained its professional standards, continuing to publish based on independent reviews without succumbing to pressure, even at a commercial cost. UPL continues to promote "The Unfinished Memoirs" on social media and has recently published a book on Jamaat-e-Islami's history, asserting its importance for understanding Bangladesh's history. The publisher advocates for the freedom of publication and sale of books that do not incite criminal activities, arguing that interference hinders cultural and knowledge development. The incident has prompted UPL to call upon writers, readers, educators, journalists, publishers, political leaders with democratic ideals, government members, and others to oppose actions that threaten academic publishing. UPL also highlighted the risk of fostering a culture of intimidation in the publishing sector and urged for firm action against illegal activities for the benefit of the state, society, and intellectual discourse.
