Sylhet cop withdrawn for singing James song at Puja venue while on duty

A police officer in Sylhet has been withdrawn from his station after a video of him singing a popular James song at a Durga Puja venue while on security duty went viral on Facebook.

Assistant Sub-Inspector (ASI) Udayan Faruk of Jalalabad Police Station was transferred to the police lines on Tuesday (October 20) following an order signed by the Sylhet Metropolitan Police commissioner.

Police said Faruk was assigned to security duty at the Brahmanshashan Sarbojanin Puja Mandap in the Akhalia Natunbazar area of Sylhet city's Ward 8 on Monday night.

During a cultural programme organised by the Puja Celebration Committee, Faruk took the stage in his police uniform and performed James's popular song "Ore Ore Haoware."

A video of the performance circulated widely on Facebook, drawing the attention of senior police officials.

Sylhet Metropolitan Police Deputy Commissioner (North) Saiful Islam told Daily Waadaa on Wednesday that Faruk had neglected his official responsibilities by participating in the programme.

"He was assigned to security duty at the venue. Engaging in other activities while on official duty constitutes negligence," Saiful said.

He confirmed that Faruk had been withdrawn from Jalalabad Police Station and attached to the police lines following the incident.

The assistant commissioner of Jalalabad Police Station has been tasked with investigating the matter.

"Further action will be taken based on the investigation report," Saiful said.

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