Md. Bazlur Rashid

Cancel culture refers to withdrawing support or calling for the boycott of a public figure, organisation, or individual due to their statements, actions, or beliefs considered offensive, harmful, or morally wrong. This phenomenon is largely driven by social media users, who collectively 'cancel' someone by publicly shaming them, demanding consequences, or advocating for their exclusion from social, professional, or commercial platforms.

The concept of cancel culture is rooted in accountability, where individuals or entities are held responsible for their behaviour. However, it is also a subject of debate. Critics argue that cancel culture can lead to excessive punishment, stifling free speech and fostering a culture of fear. At the same time, supporters see it as a necessary tool for marginalised groups to challenge harmful behaviours and promote social justice.

The exact origin of the term "cancel culture" is difficult to pinpoint, but it is generally believed to have evolved from the slang term "cancel" used in early 2010s social media. The idea of "cancelling" someone, in the sense of rejecting or boycotting them, can be traced back to the mid-2010s, notably within Black Twitter communities, where it was used humorously or as a way to call out celebrities or public figures for offensive behaviour.

The term "cancel culture" started gaining traction around 2017-2018, as it became more widely used in discussions about the social and cultural implications of these public shaming or boycott practices. While no single person is credited with coining the term, its rise in popularity is associated with the growing influence of social media in shaping public discourse and holding individuals accountable for their actions.

This phenomenon, rooted in accountability and social justice concepts, has sparked intense debates regarding its implications, especially in societies like Bangladesh. Here, cancel culture has taken on a unique form, influenced by the country’s social dynamics, digital landscape, and the evolving nature of public discourse, making it distinct from its global counterparts.

The rise of cancel culture in Bangladesh can largely be attributed to the increasing influence of social media platforms, particularly Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube, which have become the primary arenas for public debate and expression. These platforms have democratised the ability to voice opinions, enabling ordinary citizens to engage in discussions previously dominated by traditional media outlets or elite circles.

However, this democratisation has also led to a cancel culture, where individuals or groups mobilise to call out and boycott those whose views or actions they find objectionable. This practice has taken on significant dimensions in a society like Bangladesh, where religion, politics, and culture are often sensitive topics.

Religious sensitivity is one of the most prominent areas where cancel culture has manifested in Bangladesh. Bangladesh, being a predominantly Muslim-majority country, places a high value on religious sentiments. Any perceived insult or disrespect towards religious beliefs, particularly Islam, can trigger a strong public reaction. In such instances, cancel culture is a tool for defending religious sanctity. Public figures, celebrities, or even ordinary individuals who are accused of blasphemy or of making derogatory remarks about religion often face intense backlash. This backlash is not limited to online condemnation but can extend to organised boycotts, social ostracisation, and, in extreme cases, threats to personal safety. This impact can be far-reaching, leading to the cancellation of events, removal of content from digital platforms, or even legal action against the accused.

Bangladesh's political landscape is another area where cancel culture has gained prominence. Deep divisions, with strong allegiances to different political parties and leaders, characterise the country’s politics. In this context, expressing political views that challenge the mainstream narrative or criticise the government can lead to severe repercussions.

Political cancel culture often involves coordinated efforts to discredit individuals or groups that are seen as opposing the dominant political ideology. This can take the form of smear campaigns, where the personal and professional reputations of those targeted are systematically undermined. This has sometimes silenced dissenting voices, as the fear of being cancelled discourages individuals from expressing their opinions openly. This aspect of cancel culture in Bangladesh highlights the tension between freedom of expression and the desire to maintain political conformity.

Cultural norms and social values also play a significant role in shaping cancel culture in Bangladesh. The country is in a transitional phase, where traditional values often clash with modern ideas, especially regarding issues like women’s rights, LGBTQ+ rights, and other progressive causes. Advocates for these issues sometimes find themselves at the centre of cancel culture debates, where more conservative segments of society reject their views.

For instance, discussions around women’s empowerment or the rights of sexual minorities can provoke strong reactions, leading to attempts to cancel those who advocate for such causes. This resistance is often fueled by the perception that these views threaten the social and moral fabric of the nation. The result is a polarised environment where progressive voices are frequently marginalised or silenced through the mechanisms of cancel culture.

The impact of cancel culture in Bangladesh is multifaceted. On one hand, it serves as a form of social accountability, allowing people to collectively express their disapproval of actions or statements considered harmful or offensive. This has been particularly empowering for marginalised groups, who have historically had limited avenues to challenge dominant narratives or hold influential individuals accountable. Cancel culture provides a platform for these voices to be heard and for grievances to be addressed, thus contributing to a more inclusive and responsive public discourse.

However, the practice of cancel culture in Bangladesh has drawbacks. One of the most significant criticisms is that it can stifle free speech and create a culture of fear. The fear of being cancelled can lead to self-censorship, where individuals refrain from expressing their opinions or engaging in public debates for fear of backlash.

This has a chilling effect on the diversity of viewpoints essential for a healthy and vibrant public sphere. Furthermore, cancel culture can sometimes result in disproportionate consequences, where individuals are harshly judged or punished without the opportunity for dialogue or redemption. The lack of nuance in many cancel culture debates can lead to the oversimplification of complex issues, where people are categorised as either wholly good or wholly bad based on a single statement or action. This binary approach overlooks the possibility of growth, learning, and change.

Another concern related to cancel culture in Bangladesh is its potential to be co-opted for personal or political gain. In some cases, cancel culture is used to settle personal vendettas or undermine political opponents. This opportunistic use of cancel culture detracts from its original purpose of promoting social justice and accountability. Instead of fostering constructive dialogue or addressing genuine grievances, it becomes a tool for perpetuating division and discord.

Cancel culture in Bangladesh reflects the broader global trend, but the country's specific cultural, religious, and political context also shapes it. As Bangladesh continues to navigate the challenges of modernity, globalisation, and digitalisation, the role of cancel culture in shaping public discourse will likely remain significant. Society must balance holding individuals accountable for their actions and allowing space for free expression and constructive dialogue. This balance is crucial for ensuring that cancel culture serves as a force for positive change rather than a mechanism for suppression and division.

Cancel culture in Bangladesh is a complex and evolving phenomenon with significant implications for the country’s social and political landscape. While it has provided a platform for marginalised voices and contributed to holding people accountable, it also poses challenges to free speech and open debate.

The future of cancel culture in Bangladesh will depend on how society addresses these challenges and whether it can create a more inclusive and balanced approach to public discourse. As the nation moves forward, fostering a culture of dialogue, understanding, and respect will be essential, where differences can be discussed and resolved without resorting to the extremes of cancellation.

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