People across the country marked the first anniversary of the July Uprising, a pivotal movement that led to the downfall of the Awami League government.
Various programmes were organised nationwide to observe this historic day, reflecting on the sacrifices made and the political shift it triggered.
The uprising, driven by widespread public protests, particularly by students, labourers, and common citizens, has been remembered for its role in challenging the oppressive regime and sparking a movement for democratic reforms.
Across the country, rallies, memorial services, and discussions took place as people paid homage to those who lost their lives during the movement. Tributes were made at key locations, including the graves of martyrs, with flowers and prayers offered in remembrance of the fallen heroes. Political parties, activists, and citizens participated in the events, calling for continued unity in the fight for democracy and justice.
The day also served as a reminder of the collective power of the people, who, despite facing brutal repression, stood firm in their demand for change.
Rangpur: On Tuesday morning, the parents and family members of Abu Sayeed, the first martyr of the July Mass Uprising, paid heartfelt tributes at the newly constructed July Martyrs’ Memorial in Rangpur metropolitan city. Abu Sayeed’s mother, Manwra Begum, father Makbul Hossain, and other relatives were joined by fellow martyr families, wounded participants, and activists, who laid wreaths to honor the fallen heroes of the movement.
In an emotional moment, Manwra Begum broke down in tears, recalling her son’s sacrifice. “The killers of my son have yet to be punished,” she said. “My son fought for equality, but the divide between the rich and poor still persists. Why hasn’t this government ensured the equality he died for?” She added that her only wish was to see the Bangladesh her son had envisioned.
Makbul Hossain, her husband, demanded justice for his son’s murder. “I want the police officers, university officials, and Chhatra League-Awami League activists responsible for his killing to face capital punishment. It’s been over a year, and the trial hasn’t even concluded. I want answers,” he stated with urgency.
Rangpur Divisional Commissioner Mohammad Shahidul Islam emphasized that building a new Bangladesh, one free from inequality, could only be achieved by honoring the ideals of the martyrs and revolutionaries of the July Uprising. He called for the realization of their dreams and urged the government to eradicate corruption at all levels.
Patuakhali: The commemoration began with a solemn ceremony at the Shaheed Hriday Taruar Monastery and the grave of Shaheed Bachchu Howlader. District Commissioner Mohammad Abu Hasnat Mohammad Arefin, along with Superintendent of Police Mohammad Anwar Zahid and other officials, paid tribute to the martyrs by laying flowers and offering prayers.
The ceremony was followed by a special gathering for the families of the July martyrs and wounded fighters at the District Shilpakala Academy, where 23 family members of the martyrs attended to honor their loved ones.
Jashore: the July Uprising Day was celebrated with respect and reverence, bringing together the district administration, political parties, and citizens from all walks of life. The day began with a tribute ceremony at the July Memorial in the town’s Bokul Tala, where District Commissioner Md Azaharul Islam, Superintendent of Police Ronok Jahan, and Anindya Islam Amit, the Acting Organizational Secretary of BNP’s Khulna Division, joined by local political leaders and officials, paid tribute to the martyrs of the uprising.
Following the ceremony, the district administration organized a vibrant victory rally that marched through the city’s main streets. The rally saw enthusiastic participation from the public, showing solidarity with the ideals of the uprising. A discussion session was held afterward at the District Shilpakala Academy, organized by the district administration, where the sacrifices of the martyrs were remembered, and their ideals were reaffirmed.
Kishoreganj: The city marked the first anniversary of the July Uprising with vibrant celebrations, organised by the Kishoreganj District BNP.
From early morning, the city’s atmosphere was filled with festivity. The central event was a victory rally led by the BNP, which began around 12:30pm from the historic Gurudayal College ground.
The procession crossed the main streets of the city, concluding at Rathkhola ground. Participants included BNP leaders, activists, students, cultural organizations, and people from all walks of life.
The rally not only served as a commemoration of the past but also reaffirmed the ideals of the uprising, particularly the fight for democracy, justice, and equality. It reflected the ongoing struggle against perceived injustices and the government’s repressive actions.
Barguna: The day’s commemoration began at 9am with a tribute to the martyrs, as district officials placed flowers on the graves of those who sacrificed their lives during the movement.
Around 11:30 am, a collective programme was held at the District Shilpakala Academy, bringing together the families of the martyrs and freedom fighters. Chaired by District Commissioner Mohammad Shafiul Alam, the session saw moving reflections on the atrocities committed by the Awami League government during the uprising. Family members of the martyrs shared their experiences and the sacrifices their loved ones made for the country’s future.
A special ceremony was also held at the grave of Mohammad Ishaq Jamaddar in Bebajiyakhali, where prayers and du’a (supplications) were offered for the martyrs. Participants in processions raised their voices demanding justice for the perpetrators of the violence and the swift punishment of those responsible for the killings.
Netrokona: The day began with a tribute to Ramjan Ali, a martyr who was shot by police during the July Uprising. District Commissioner Banani Biswas, along with other officials and political leaders, paid their respects at Ramjan Ali’s grave in Nandipur Charpara village. Ramjan Ali was shot in the neck and chest on July 19, 2024, during a student-led protest, and he died after being rushed to the hospital.
The day continued with a victory rally, organised by the district administration at 10 am. The rally started from the July Memorial in Mukatrapara Bridge area and ended at the District Public Hall. Following the rally, a discussion session was held at the District Public Hall, chaired by Banani Biswas, where the martyrs of the July Uprising were remembered, and their sacrifices were acknowledged.
Throughout the day, similar tributes were held across various Upazilas in the district, with people reflecting on the importance of the uprising and the fight for justice and equality.
Pirojpur: Various programmes were arranged to mark the first anniversary of the fall of the “fascist” Awami League government.
Jamaat leader Masud Saeed addressed a gathering during a victory procession and rally organized by the party’s district chapter.
He recalled the period of intense repression under the previous government, likening it to a “stream roller” of persecution. Saeed also warned that anyone who believes Sheikh Hasina could return to power was “living in a fool’s paradise.”
The rally, which began at the Allama Saeed Foundation, marched through various streets in the town before concluding at the Town Club, where a brief gathering was held.
During the gathering, Masud Saeed further criticized the war crimes trials, accusing former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina of being involved in crimes such as murder and enforced disappearances.
He demanded that Sheikh Hasina face a public trial for her alleged crimes, declaring that no matter how many people try to create chaos, they would not be provoked. “Insha’Allah, victory will be ours,” he concluded.
The rally and meeting in Pirojpur served as a strong show of solidarity for the Jamaat-e-Islami, remembering the movement that led to the fall of the Awami League government while continuing their resistance against what they perceive as an unjust regime.