Dhaka: Shaheed Asad Day, which marks the martyrdom anniversary of Shaheed Asaduzzaman Asad, will be observed tomorrow. Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus, in a message on the eve of the day, expressed that the ultimate sacrifice made by Shaheed Asaduzzaman Asad serves as a source of inspiration for the younger generation to uphold their duties towards the nation and advocate for truth.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Prof Yunus emphasized the significance of Shaheed Asad Day in the context of Bangladesh’s struggle for independence. Asad, who gave his life during the 1969 mass uprising, remains a poignant symbol among those in Bangladesh who cherish democracy and seek freedom. Prof Yunus recounted the events of January 20, 1969, when police fired upon a procession led by students and the public near Dhaka Medical College. The protest supported the 11-point programme, and it was during this event that Dhaka University student leader Mohammad Asaduzzaman was martyred, while many others sustained injuries.
The chief adviser spoke about the climate of repression and discrimination under the Pakistani dictator Ayub Khan’s regime, which left the people of Bangla disillusioned. The movement against this oppression gained momentum following Asad’s death, uniting people from all walks of life in their demands for freedom and accelerating the downfall of the military dictator Field Marshal Ayub Khan.
Prof Yunus concluded his message by praying for the eternal peace of Asad’s soul and paying homage to all martyrs who sacrificed their lives for the country’s welfare, with special mention of Shaheed Asad.