Dr. Syed Abdullah Muhammad Taher, former central president of Bangladesh Islami Chhatra Shibir, has said that the July Uprising has taught the nation a powerful lesson in sacrifice and unity.
He made the remarks while speaking at a prize-giving ceremony for a nationwide
essay competition titled 'Chhatra-Jonoter Abhuththan–2024' (The
Student-People’s Uprising–2024), held at Suhrawardy Udyan on Sunday.
The event was inaugurated by the mother of July martyr Abdullah
Al Tahir.
Taher said, "July is the name of courage, of inspiration." It showed how the entire nation can stand together. While people from all walks of life participated in this movement, only the contributions of certain groups are being highlighted — the role of the hardworking common people remains ignored and invisible.
Urging the interim government to immediately publish a formal "July Declaration" with legal backing, he said, "The government must confront all conspiracies — not bow to any party’s influence or obstruction — and carry out reforms and deliver justice for the genocide."
"We don’t want just any election; we want one that upholds the independence and sovereignty of the nation. The government must take a firm stand. Immediate measures must be taken for the rehabilitation of martyrs’ families and proper medical care for the injured and permanently disabled."
Jahidul Islam, Central president of Islami Chhatra Shibir, said that the organisation aims to pass the legacy of the July Movement from generation to generation. "Through essay competitions, cultural festivals, and international conferences, we are preserving and promoting the July spirit," he said.
He called on the government: "Justice for the genocide must be ensured without delay. All decisions must reflect the July consciousness. Short-sightedness and complacency must be rejected."
Other speakers at the event included former central presidents Manjurul Islam, BUET Professor Dr. Fakhrul Islam, Rajshahi University Professor Dr. Mahfuzur Rahman Akhand, Central Secretary General Nurul Islam Saddan, the father of July martyr Nahid Hasan Riyan, Abdur Razzak, injured activists Tahmid Huzaifa and Ahmed Jubayer, and members of the central secretariat. Leaders from metropolitan and university units were also present.
Over 3,000 essays were submitted from across the country for the competition. Fifty outstanding entries were selected and honored with cash scholarships, certificates, books, and crests.
HKJ
