Dhaka: Vice-Chancellor of Bangladesh Medical University (BMU) Prof. Dr. F M Siddiqui has called for unity to protect the country from fascism again, emphasizing the importance of keeping the spirit of the July mass uprising alive. ‘Because of the July mass uprising, the country has been freed from fascist rule. People can now speak freely. To preserve this achievement, everyone must remain united and resist fascism,’ he said.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Prof. Dr. Siddiqui made the remarks at a rally and discussion titled ‘July 36: Commitment to Democracy in the Spirit of Nationalism’ at the university today, where he served as the chief guest. The event was organized by the Movement for Justice, BMU unit, with its convenor Dr. Shahidul Haque Rahat presiding.
Pro-Vice-Chancellor Prof. Dr. Md. Mujibur Rahman Howlader, Treasurer Prof. Dr. Nahrin Akhtar, and Proctor Prof. Dr. Sheikh Farhad were present as special guests. The programme was moderated by Dr. Muhammad Zafar Iqbal, the member secretary of the organization.
The Vice-Chancellor noted that democracy in Bangladesh has repeatedly faced obstacles. He highlighted the contributions of former President Ziaur Rahman, former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia, and Prime Minister Tarique Rahman to the establishment of democracy. He also called for a white paper on irregularities and corruption committed at BMU during previous governments to ensure legal action.
Prof. Dr. Siddiqui urged teachers, physicians, officials, employees, and all others concerned to treat patients well and to play a responsible role in ensuring high-quality healthcare. He mentioned repeated attempts to undermine the country’s nationalistic ideologies, which failed due to the people’s faith and love for the country. Describing the victory of nationalism as inevitable, he called on everyone to remain united to preserve it.
Dr. Muhammad Zafar Iqbal, the secretary of the organization, demanded the establishment of a July memorial at the BMU campus. The programme also featured a video documentary and a photography exhibition on the July mass uprising, attended by teachers, physicians, officials, nurses, and employees of the university.