Bangladesh will not participate in the 48th International Kolkata Book Fair, marking the first time in the fair’s history.

For the past 47 years, Bangladesh has participated in various ways at the Kolkata Book Fair. However, this year, the Publishers and Booksellers Guild expressed disappointment over the country’s absence.

Despite this, the organizers remain hopeful and believe there is still time for Bangladesh to join. They are willing to assist with visas and other logistics if they receive approval from Bangladesh.

According to sources, the absence of Bangladesh at the upcoming fair is due to the lack of green signals from both governments. Neither Bangladesh’s interim government nor the Indian government has issued a statement on the matter. 

The information was confirmed by the Guild’s President, Tridib Kumar Chattopadhyay.

On Friday (Nov 15), the first press conference for the 48th Kolkata Book Fair took place at Park Hotel in Kolkata. 

Germany is participating as the theme country, and German Vice Consul in Kolkata Simon Klempas and Director of the Goethe-Institut Kolkata, Astrid Wegge, spoke at the event. 

However, despite the various speeches, the main focus of journalists was on Bangladesh's participation, which became clear during the Q&A session.

After the unveiling of the theme country, journalists repeatedly asked the authorities about Bangladesh’s absence from the fair.

When asked by Times of India about the current situation, Guild President Tridib Chattopadhyay said, "We cannot say anything yet. All we can say is that we are awaiting appropriate government directives on the situation."

In response to a question from Anandabazar Patrika, he added, "Given the current circumstances between Bangladesh and India, we cannot take any decision without official directives. Therefore, we cannot confirm whether Bangladesh will participate."

BDST: 2117 HRS, NOV 15, 2024
MSK