July 16 to be observed as 'July Shaheed Day': State Minister

July 16 to be observed as 'July Shaheed Day': State Minister

The government has announced special programmes to commemorate the memory of the historic July-August 2024 mass uprising and honour the martyrs. At a press conference at the Ministry of Liberation War Affairs on Sunday, July 5, State Minister for Liberation War Affairs Engineer Ishrak Hossain said July 16 would be observed as 'July Shaheed Day' this year, as has been done annually.

The minister said the impact of two high-profile killings on that day spread the movement nationwide and drew international attention, which ultimately accelerated the mass uprising. To commemorate the day, a foundation stone will be laid for a monument in memory of Shaheed Abu Saeed at Begum Rokeya University in Rangpur. Liberation War Affairs Minister Ahmed Azam Khan will be present at the event. On the same day, the state minister will lay the foundation stone for another monument in memory of Shaheed Wasim Akram in Pekua, Cox's Bazar.

The government said the main official programme will begin on August 5, with the observance of 'July Mass Uprising Day 2026'. Prime Minister Tarique Rahman will be the chief guest at the event at the China-Bangladesh Friendship Conference Centre in Dhaka. Tributes will be paid by placing wreaths at Shahbagh at 6:00 am, and families of the martyrs and injured will be honoured.

On July 15, a photo exhibition titled 'Campus Scars' or 'Beginning of Resistance' will be held to commemorate the attacks on students on campuses. On July 18, a protest rally and cultural programme will be held at the Army Stadium to mark 'Private University Resistance Day'. On July 24, a special rally will be held in Jatrabari to commemorate the historic resistance built by students, the public and ordinary people.