This rally, which brought together theatre artistes, writers, directors, designers, and cultural activists, came in the wake of the controversial resignation of Syed Jamil Ahmed, the Academy’s former director general. The procession aims to voice a clear and urgent demand for not only the reinstatement of Ahmed but also for the autonomy of Shilpakala Academy, free from bureaucratic interference.

During the event, the theatre personality who was supposed to give a speech to the present audience, suddenly took the microphone and informed on his resignation. "It is no longer possible for me to continue working here. That is why I am submitting my resignation letter to the Shilpakala Secretary (Mohammad Wares Hossain) in front of all of you," he stated, addressing the audience and distinguished guests at the event.

Jamil Ahmed confirmed that this was not an official directive. However, his comments have sparked a social media backlash, with many theatre artists criticising the suggestion. Numerous posts have emerged condemning Jamil’s stance, with some also alleging that fellow veteran actor Ferdousi Majumdar had been given similar advice.

A gazette notification to this effect was issued on November 21 by Abul Hayat Md Rafiq, deputy secretary, Ministry of Public Administration, on behalf of the president. Jamil Ahmed will serve as director general with all the accompanying salary and benefits of a secretary-level position.

Syed Jamil Ahmed, the newly appointed director general of Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy, has called for the allocation of at least three percent of the national GDP for the cultural sector to make the academy financially capable and self-sufficient.