A group identifying itself as ‘Tawhidi Janata’ has demanded the cancellation of a boat race scheduled to be held on the Sonai River in Beanibazar, Sylhet, on August 28.

The annual boat race is being organized by the youth communities of Lauta and Bahadurpur unions. The event has been held in the area for years without major objections. However, this year, a group under the banner of ‘Tawhidi Janata’ has called for the competition to be cancelled through posts on social media.

The demand has sparked debate on Facebook, with residents expressing concerns that tensions between the two sides could escalate.

A local businessman, speaking on condition of anonymity, said the boat race has long been a source of entertainment for local residents. He said several young people have recently been posting against the event on Facebook, creating concern about the situation.

Another resident said hundreds of people attend the annual competition and described it as part of the area’s traditional cultural activities. He also alleged that people opposing the event have issued threats under the banner of ‘Tawhidi Janata’.

On Thursday, ‘Tawhidi Janata Lauta Union’ held a meeting at Barigram Bazar Mosque and called for the cancellation of the boat race.

Former Lauta Union Parishad chairman Gaus Uddin said discussions are underway with both sides to resolve the situation and prevent tensions from escalating.

Lauta Union Parishad Chairman Delwar Hossain said he was aware of the social media posts supporting and opposing the boat race but had no further information.

Beanibazar Police Station Officer-in-Charge Abu Zafar Mohammad Mahfuzul Karim said he was not aware of any such incident or the planned boat race. He said police would look into the matter and take necessary steps if required.