Rajshahi: Land Minister Mizanur Rahman Minu, MP, announced the construction of a special memorial to honor the martyrs of the July mass uprising in Rajshahi. The initiative aims to commemorate the sacrifice and spirit of the student-people's struggle against fascism. The minister made this announcement while speaking as the chief guest at a discussion meeting organized to mark the second anniversary of the Mass Uprising '24 and the fall of fascism at Rajshahi College Auditorium.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the permanent memorial monument will serve as a tribute to the martyrs, akin to the significance of Bir Shreshtha Mohiuddin Jahangir and Dr. Zoha in Rajshahi. The event was organized by the Rajshahi Mass Uprising '24 Parishad, with Land Minister Minu offering prayers for the martyrs, including Abu Sayeed, Mugdho, and local martyrs Shakib Anjum, Ali Raihan, and Minarul Islam.
Minister Minu emphasized the importance of remembering sacrifices like those of Dr. Zoha in 1969, drawing parallels to the July mass uprising of 2024, where many sacrificed their lives unhesitatingly. He assured the government's commitment to providing medical treatment for those injured during the movement and mentioned ongoing progress in establishing a specialized hospital with aid from the Chinese government. Additionally, he highlighted arrangements for sending those needing advanced treatment to Singapore, Thailand, or Malaysia.
The minister also addressed the social and financial security of the martyr families, stating that long-term financial security plans are underway. Special consideration will be given to martyr families seeking employment, with priority in job examinations, and corresponding instructions have been issued to the administration.
He concluded by stressing the need to build a new Bangladesh through good behavior and patriotism, rather than politics of revenge. The event featured Dr. Iftikharul Alam Masud, registrar of Rajshahi University, as the keynote speaker and was presided over by Mahbub Siddiqui, president of Rajshahi Mass Uprising '24 Parishad. Special guests included former Vice-Chancellor of Kushtia Islamic University Prof Rafiqul Islam, President of Rajshahi Bar Association Advocate Md. Abul Kashem, and Zila Parishad Administrator Advocate Ershad Ali Isha. Prior to the meeting, Minister Minu greeted the July fighters with floral wishes.