Narayanganj: Environment, Forest and Climate Change Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan today emphasized the importance of creating an inclusive and discrimination-free Bangladesh as the true way to honor the martyrs of the July uprising. She made these remarks during the inaugural ceremony of the nation’s first ‘July Martyrs’ Memorial’ in Narayanganj.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Rizwana, who also advises the Ministry of Water Resources, highlighted the necessity of justice, proper recognition, and responsible governance to genuinely pay tribute to the martyrs. She stressed the need to honor the families of the martyrs, finalize the list of the injured, and ensure compensation for them. Rizwana underscored the importance of preventing state forces from repeating acts of violence against citizens.
Reflecting on the sacrifices made during the anti-autocracy student and mass uprising, Syeda Rizwana stated that the courage and sacrifices of the martyrs laid the foundation for Bangladesh’s independence and democracy. She remarked that the July uprising demonstrated that establishing democracy requires a fearless presence on the streets. The newly unveiled memorial serves not only as a remembrance of the past but also as a reminder of the responsibility toward the future, urging collective efforts to build a just, inclusive Bangladesh.
The ceremony saw attendance from notable figures such as Dr. Asif Nazrul, Adviser to the Ministry of Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs; Adilur Rahman Khan, Adviser to the Ministry of Industries and Ministry of Housing and Public Works; and Professor Dr. Chowdhury Rafiq-ul-Abar, Adviser to the Ministry of Education, among others. Senior government officials and representatives from various organizations also participated in the event.
During the memorial ceremony, the advisers laid floral wreaths to honor the martyrs and met with the victims’ families to express their condolences and check on their well-being. In a symbolic gesture, Adviser Rizwana Hasan planted a tree in memory of the martyrs.