Rajshahi: The July Uprising Day was observed across the nation through various programs aimed at honoring the martyrs and injured individuals of the July Mass Uprising while recalling the historic event that marked the end of Sheikh Hasina’s autocratic rule. In Rajshahi, the day was marked with solemnity and respect, paying homage to the martyrs and showing solidarity with those injured.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the district administration in Rajshahi inaugurated the ‘July Shaheed Memorial Plaque’ at the C and B crossing in the city, commemorating those who laid down their lives during the historic uprising. The event saw participation from government officials, students, development activists, and professionals from cultural and social spheres. Participants later visited the graves of the martyrs, offering prayers for the eternal peace of their souls. A children’s fine arts competition, documentary screening, and a special doa mahfil were held at the Rajshahi Shilpakala Academy to mark the occasion. A memorial meeting was also organized, where speakers emphasized the sacrifice of the martyrs and the ongoing significance of the anti-discrimination student movement.
In Cumilla, the July Uprising Day was observed with various programs coordinated by the district administration and different political and socio-cultural organizations. The day’s events included discussion meetings, receptions for martyr families and July fighters, cultural events, and a victory rally. Tribute was paid to martyr Masum Miah with wreaths placed on his grave, followed by a discussion and reception program for the families of martyrs and July fighters at the District Shilpakala Academy auditorium. The event was presided over by Deputy Commissioner Md Amirul Kaysar and attended by key figures, including Cumilla Police Superintendent Nazir Ahmed Khan and BNP Chairperson’s Advisor Amin Ur Rashid Yasin. A cultural program and a victory rally by Cumilla Metropolitan Unit Chhatra Shibir also took place.
In Tangail, homage was paid at the grave of martyr Hafez Sadiq, who was fatally shot during a protest march on July 19, 2024. Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Md. Abu Sayeed led the tribute, accompanied by other officials. In Thakurgaon, a special gathering was held for frontline fighters of the July 2024 mass uprising, with speeches highlighting the movement’s significance. In Manikganj, solemn tributes were paid at the grave of Martyred Rafiqul Islam, with gifts distributed among the families of martyrs and the injured.
The observance continued in Jamalpur, where tributes were paid at the graves of July martyrs. Deputy Commissioner Hasina Begum and Superintendent of Police Syed Rafiqul Islam spoke at a gathering joined by family members of martyrs and July heroes. In Gaibandha, floral wreaths were placed on the grave of martyr Suzon, and a munajat was offered for his soul. In Bagerhat, tributes were paid to martyr Alif Ahmed Siam, who was killed during the ‘March to Dhaka’ on August 5, 2024.
The July Uprising Day was also observed with due solemnity and respect in numerous other districts across the country, including Naogaon, Netrakona, Sunamganj, and many more, each holding various commemorative events to honor the martyrs and express solidarity with the injured.