A New Bangladesh: Honoring the July Martyrs
Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus has called on all citizens to unite in building a new Bangladesh, inspired by the ideals of the July martyrs who dreamed of a nation free from discrimination, corruption, and autocracy. His message, delivered on the occasion of July Martyrs’ Day, emphasized the importance of coming together to move forward on the path of progress and justice.
” With renewed determination, we will move forward together on the path of a new Bangladesh, guided by the spirit of July. This is our pledge today,” he said. The day marks a significant moment in the country’s history, as it is being observed for the first time across the nation.
To commemorate this important occasion, the government has declared a day of state mourning. The national flag is being flown at half-mast at all government, semi-government, autonomous, and educational institutions, as well as at all public and private buildings and Bangladesh missions abroad. Special prayers are being held in mosques across the country for the forgiveness of the martyrs, while religious institutions of other faiths are also organizing prayers for the peace of their souls.
The Cabinet Division issued a notification on Tuesday, highlighting the significance of the day. Reflecting on its importance, Prof Yunus said, “On this day, I remember with deep respect all those who laid down their lives in the July mass uprising to free the nation from the chains of tyranny.”
He described July 16, 2024, as an important point in the country’s history when students, workers, and ordinary citizens joined hands in protest against the discriminatory quota system. At least six people were martyred in Chattogram, Rangpur, and Dhaka in police shootings and attacks by armed groups during the protests, according to Prof Yunus.
“The sacrifice of these fearless individuals energized the movement and gave it powerful momentum,” he said. As public outrage grew, so did participation, with lakhs of students, workers, and citizens taking to the streets. The rising number of martyrs only strengthened the resolve of the protesters.
Prof Yunus stated that the anti-quota movement eventually transformed into a full-blown anti-government uprising, leading to the departure of the then ruling dictator from the country. In return for the blood of martyrs, a new dawn of freedom broke over the nation, he added, noting that the July martyrs have etched an epic tale of heroism in history.
To honor their memory and support their families, the interim government has launched several welfare initiatives. These include the establishment of the July Mass Uprising Directorate and the July Shaheed Smriti Foundation, which are tasked with preserving the history and supporting the families of martyrs and injured protesters.
Prof Yunus also announced that a comprehensive list of July martyrs is being compiled and will be officially published in a government gazette. Each martyr’s family is receiving a Tk 30 lakh compensation along with a monthly allowance. Support is also being extended to those injured in the movement.
Prof Yunus offered prayers for the eternal peace of those who gave their lives in the July uprising. His message serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made and the ongoing commitment to building a better future for all citizens of Bangladesh.
