July martyrs’ sacrifices freed people from fascist rule: PM

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman said on Saturday that the government is fully committed to fulfilling the hopes and aspirations of those who were killed or victimised during the country’s democratic movements.

“Despite our limited resources, we will make our utmost efforts to stand by the families of those subjected to enforced disappearance and killing, as well as the families affected by and those who lost loved ones in the July mass uprising,” he said.

“No compensation can ever make up for the irreparable losses you have suffered. Nevertheless, we were with you, are with you and will remain with you in the future,” he added.

The premier made the remarks while addressing a programme held at Karabi Hall of the Prime Minister's Office in the capital’s Tejgaon in the afternoon.

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The event was organised to formally hand over appointment letters to 74 members of families of victims of enforced disappearance and killing, and families affected by or having lost members in the July mass uprising.

Calling the occasion a deeply painful one, Tarique said, “We are remembering people who should have been among us today. Sadly, they are not. It is because of their great sacrifices that the 20 crore people of the country have today been freed from fascist rule.”

“Only Allah, the Almighty, knows where those who are absent from us today are and in what condition they are. We should raise our hands in prayer and ask Allah to keep them in the best possible condition,” he said.

Referring to those who sacrificed their lives during the 1971 Liberation War, democratic struggles in the post-independence period and the July mass uprising, the prime minister said the government was determined to fulfil their goals and aspirations.

“Perhaps, due to various realities, everything cannot be done quickly. But we will continue to make our utmost efforts,” he said.

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Tarique said many people who made great sacrifices for major achievements were no longer alive.

“To those who are with us, I would say that you made the greatest sacrifices for the people of this country and suffered in various ways. The government will make every possible effort to fulfil the goals and objectives for which you put your lives at stake,” he said.

Describing the sacrifices of the movement’s activists as a key source of inspiration for the government, he said, “Some may say that the government has stood by these families. But I would say that it is because of your sacrifice, support and cooperation that the government has the courage to work with full vigour. You are our main source of strength and inspiration.”

Addressing the families of the martyrs, the prime minister sought their continued support and encouragement so that the government could work to fulfil the expectations of all those who sacrificed their lives for the country and its people.

Members of families of victims of enforced disappearance and killing, as well as families of those killed and injured in the July mass uprising, also spoke at the programme and shared their feelings with the prime minister.