The Rajshahi University Central Students’ Union (RUCSU) has filed a legal case against George Lincoln D’Costa, the frontman of popular rock band Artcell, and the band’s manager Khademul Wahab Maher, accusing them of breach of trust, fraud, and financial misconduct after the group allegedly backed out of a major campus concert just hours before it was scheduled to begin.

The complaint, lodged by Md Salahuddin, General Secretary of RUCSU, alleges that Artcell was officially contracted to headline the “36 July Muktir Utsab” concert on 15 August at Rajshahi University. As part of the agreement, the organisers had already transferred Tk 5.25 lakh of the total Tk 5.75 lakh performance fee to the band.

However, according to the lawsuit, Artcell abruptly announced on Facebook—barely five hours before showtime—that they would not be performing. The sudden cancellation, RUCSU claims, caused significant financial setbacks including venue preparations, promotional expenses, and advance payments, as well as what they describe as “severe reputational damage” for the organisers. The total estimated loss has been stated as Tk 16 lakh.
The legal filing notes that Artcell did not respond to a legal notice sent on 25 August, prompting RUCSU to escalate the matter to court. The case accuses the vocalist and manager of intentionally withdrawing despite receiving advance payment and completing all contractual arrangements.

The RUCSU General Secretary stated in the complaint that the band’s last-minute no-show not only jeopardised festival logistics but also damaged student trust and public confidence in university-organised cultural events.

Artcell, one of Bangladesh’s most influential rock acts, has yet to release an official statement regarding the allegations. Fans and industry insiders are now closely watching how the case develops, as this is one of the most high-profile legal disputes involving a mainstream Bangladeshi band in recent years.