Dhaka: During the July uprising, citizens from various backgrounds, especially students, risked their lives to challenge the authoritarian Awami League government. The protest wave engulfed the nation, with Jahangirnagar University (JU) being a significant participant.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, students of Jahangirnagar University have consistently voiced their opposition to injustice and oppression. Their involvement in the quota reform movement, which evolved into an anti-autocracy uprising, was pivotal. This movement accelerated the regime's downfall, highlighting the students' courageous leadership.
Abu Thauhid Md. Siam, an International Relations student (49 Batch) at JU, played a crucial role in leading the students during this movement. Siam, a resident of Biswakabi Rabindranath Tagore Hall, served as the JU coordinator of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement and later as the member secretary of its JU chapter. He was also a central joint convener of the Bangladesh Democratic Student Council.
The quota reform movement, initially formed around the reformation of government job quotas, transformed into the July uprising. Millions joined in protest against the harsh crackdown on unarmed demonstrators by Awami League supporters and loyal forces. This period marked the most intense crackdown on student protests since the Liberation War, leading to the fall of the government that had been in power since 2008.
Siam recently recounted his experiences during the July uprising in an exclusive interview. He described how the movement, initially focused on rational quota reform, expanded as people grew frustrated with 16 years of autocratic rule. The movement reflected a collective determination to end the authoritarian government.
Throughout the uprising, JU students remained highly active, with significant involvement in protests. The movement, which began peacefully, escalated following a series of violent incidents, including attacks on students by Chhatra League activists. The brutal suppressions, particularly on July 15, galvanized students and led to widespread participation.
Female students played a vital role, especially after some were attacked, leading to increased involvement from female dormitories. The anti-autocracy movement gained momentum following the reinstatement of the quota system by the High Court, sparking nationwide backlash.
As the movement progressed, JU students employed innovative protest tactics, such as the "Bangla Blockade," drawing national attention. Despite facing aggressive attacks from Chhatra League and the police, student unity and resolve only strengthened.
The uprising culminated in the stepping down of the autocratic regime, with JU students playing a notable role. However, the journey was marred by violence, including injuries and fatalities among protesters, as they marched toward Ganabhaban.
Throughout the movement, JU's anti-autocracy teachers stood in solidarity with the students, while pro-Awami League faculty attempted to suppress the protests. Campus journalists also played a crucial role, providing information and support despite challenging conditions.
Despite the regime's fall, many perpetrators remain unpunished, and essential reforms have yet to be fully implemented. Siam expressed hope for a more inclusive and democratic Bangladesh, free from authoritarian practices and power monopolies.