Dhaka: Religious Affairs Adviser Dr AFM Khalid stated that the killing of Hefazat workers at Shapla Chattar on May 5, 2013, laid the foundation of the July revolution. Dr Khalid made this assertion while distributing financial donations to the families of the 77 Hefazat workers who were killed during the Awami League regime.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, 58 Hefazat workers were killed at Shapla Chattar in 2013, and 19 others died during the anti-Modi movement in 2021. The event took place at Osmani Memorial Hall and was attended by Local Government Adviser Asif Mahmud Sajib Bhyuian as the chief guest, with Secretary of the Local Government Ministry Rezaul Maksud Zahidi presiding over the function.
Dr Khalid remarked that the Awami League government believed the movement could be suppressed through violence, but this notion was proven wrong. He emphasized that over 7,000 law enforcers, including police, BGB, and RAB, attacked Hefazat Islam leaders and workers, firing over 1.5 lakh bullets, yet the movement’s legacy endures. He warned that future attempts to commit similar acts would not go unpunished.
Dr Khalid also called on Hefazat Islam leaders to compile a list of those martyred and injured in the Shapla Chattar massacre. Local Government Adviser Asif Mahmud Sajib Bhuiyan announced plans to construct a memorial plaque in honor of the Hefazat martyrs, ensuring their remembrance in the country.
A financial donation of Taka 10 lakhs was presented to each of the families of the martyred on this occasion.