Dhaka: The ‘July fighters’ of the student-people uprising will begin receiving allowances starting next month, announced Liberation War Affairs Adviser Faruk E Azam. In an exclusive interview with Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha (BSS) at the Secretariat, he detailed the financial and medical support plans for these individuals, acknowledging their significant contributions to the country’s history.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Faruk E Azam explained that the government has finalized a comprehensive list of martyred and injured fighters from the July uprising, a task that took just seven to eight months under the current interim government. This swift action was characterized as a testament to the government’s dedication and responsibility. Additionally, measures are being taken to rehabilitate injured fighters, offering them opportunities for employment or business ventures according to their qualifications.
To facilitate these initiatives, a new department has been established within the Ministry of Liberation War Affairs, staffed by 20 officers and led by an additional secretary. This department is tasked with addressing the needs and interests of the July fighters.
Faruk E Azam emphasized the importance of remembering the July fighters as integral to the democratic history of Bangladesh, expressing confidence that both the government and citizens will continue to honor their sacrifices. He also addressed potential communication gaps with the families of some martyrs, assuring that any new information about missing individuals would be sincerely considered.
The allowance system for recognized ‘July fighters’ includes both one-time and monthly payments, categorized into three groups: ‘A’, ‘B’, and ‘C’. Category ‘A’ fighters will receive Taka 20,000 monthly, while those in categories ‘B’ and ‘C’ will receive Taka 15,000 and Taka 10,000, respectively. Certificates and identity cards are being distributed accordingly.
A published list identified 834 ‘July martyrs’, with each family entitled to a one-time assistance of Taka 30 lakh, distributed in two installments. Each family will also receive a monthly allowance of Taka 20,000, and able members will be prioritized for government and semi-government job opportunities.
Category ‘A’ fighters, who require constant assistance due to severe injuries, will receive Taka 5 lakh one-time assistance and lifelong medical facilities. Category ‘B’ fighters, who can manage with partial help, will receive Taka 3 lakh one-time assistance. Category ‘C’ fighters, deemed fully recovered, will receive Taka 1 lakh one-time and Taka 10,000 monthly.
The government has also declared August 5 as the annual July Uprising Day, a national observance to honor the uprising. Some financial disbursements have been delayed due to inheritance issues, but efforts are underway to resolve these swiftly. Errors in the injured fighters’ list are being corrected through thorough investigations.