The government is completing final preparations to formally inaugurate July Uprising Memorial Museum, established to preserve the memory of 5 August 2024 mass uprising and the historic sacrifices made by students and public against 18 years of autocracy.
Cultural Affairs Minister Nitai Roy Chowdhury shared these details during a press conference held this afternoon at the ministry’s conference room. He mentioned that public had been pushed to the limit by the misrule of the then prime minister Sheikh Hasina.
Following the interim government’s decision, the initiative to build the museum was taken after analysing the depth, scope, and core significance of the uprising. Since BNP government assumed office, structural changes and legal refinements have been introduced to ensure the project is more polished and permanent.
Addressing queries regarding the delay in opening and project costs, Nitai clarified that a powerful board of directors has already been constituted.
While the director general of National Museum had previously held additional charge, the minister emphasised that a full-fledged museum requires a permanent manpower structure and a specific organogram.
He noted that the delay was primarily due to the time required for legal approvals and the amendment of regulations through the Ministry of Public Administration and other relevant departments.
The construction and renovation work are now nearing completion. The recruitment of staff will be finalised during the first meeting of the newly formed board within the next day or two. Subsequently, the memorial museum will be officially inaugurated on a specific date, subject to the prime minister’s convenience and permission.
During the conference, Cultural Affairs Adviser Jahed Ur Rahman highlighted special programmes initiated by the ministry to uphold the spirit of July. He announced that starting 15 July, all subordinate institutions would organise nationwide cultural events, exhibitions, and competitions.
Jahed noted that 15 July holds particular significance, as students took to the streets after midnight on 14 July, and barbaric attacks were carried out against students, especially women, on 15 July.
These events accelerated the march of great sacrifice on 16 July. He called for the sincere cooperation of the media in promoting these programmes and spreading the spirit of these landmark days among the public.
State Minister for Cultural Affairs Ali Newaz Mahmood Khyom, and Secretary Kaniz Moula were also present at the briefing.
