An annual Lalon Mela could not be held in Narayanganj as the district authorities denied the organisers permission to host the event amid "threats from a religious group".

Muktidham Ashram and Lalon Academy in Madhya Narsingpur under Kashipur Union Parishad was scheduled to organise the two-day event from Friday evening.   

Devotees and Baul singers from across the country came to join the Mahati Sadhusanga and Lalon Mela, a gathering of Bauls and festival to pay tribute to mystic poet Fakir Lalon Shah.

But instead of providing security, local authorities imposed restrictions, said the organisers.

Fakir Shah Jalal, founder of the ashram and academy, said, "All arrangements had been made, but the administration did not permit the event, citing threats from some members of the Muslim community.

"Even when we promised to hold the event indoors without loudspeakers, we were denied permission," he said.

"Guests left without even having lunch. The event was completely foiled," Shah Jalal added.

Kamal Uddin, a devotee from Cumilla, said, "I came to sing songs, but now there's nothing to do here."

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This was the first time in six years the event faced such opposition. A group of locals, under the banner of "Towhidi Janata of Kashipur UP", protested against the event on November 15.

Hefazat-e-Islam leader Maulana Abdul Auwal warned the administration in a speech to stop the event or face intervention by the protesters.

A human chain protest in support of the festival was held on November 20. Fakir Shah Jalal also approached Deputy Commissioner Mohammad Mahmudul Hoque for security but was refused permission to proceed amid threats to burn down the ashram.

DC Mahmudul said, "The organisers sought permission, but a group of locals submitted a written objection. Considering law and order, we did not permit the event."

Narayanganj Sangskritik Jote, an alliance of cultural organisations, and rights activists condemned the decision.

Rafiur Rabbi, an adviser to the Jote, said, "Communal forces threatened the event, and the authorities cooperated in shutting it down instead of ensuring security. We strongly protest this."