DU unveils foundation stone of July Memorial Monument

Dhaka University on Wednesday unveiled the foundation stone of the “July Memorial Monument,” which is aimed at preserving the memories of the July Uprising and upholding the history and sacrifices of the participants before the new generation.

DU Vice-Chancellor Prof ABM Obaidul Islam unveiled the foundation stone at the Mall Chattar adjacent to the university’s administrative building. Family members of martyrs of the mass uprising, university teachers, officials, and representatives of student organisations attended the event.

Later, a discussion meeting on the 2024 uprising took place at the Teacher-Student Centre (TSC) auditorium, chaired by Vice-Chancellor Prof ABM Obaidul Islam.

Addressing the discussion, the vice-chancellor said, "The July mass uprising is an unforgettable chapter in the history of Bangladesh’s struggle for freedom, democracy, and justice. No governance system can survive for long by ignoring public opinion through misrule and discrimination."

He added, "The main lesson of the July mass uprising is to establish a discrimination-free, justice-based, humane, and democratic state. To convey the history and sacrifices of the movement to the new generation, the Dhaka University has taken various initiatives, including launching construction of the 'July Memorial Monument', setting up a 'July Corner', preserving photographs and graffiti, and waiving tuition fees for July Fighters and students injured in the uprising."

The vice-chancellor further stated, "Taking lessons from history, everyone must work together to establish democracy, equality, justice, and human values." During his speech, he prayed for the departed souls of all martyrs of the July mass uprising, wished a speedy recovery for the injured, and expressed deep condolences to the martyr families.

Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Academic) Prof Abdus Salam remarked, "The July mass uprising was an unavoidable reaction to the continued and long-standing injustice, misrule, and the deprivation of democratic rights."

Condemning misleading narratives surrounding the movement, he said, "Those involved in crimes against humanity and criminal offences during the movement must be brought under the law to ensure swift justice. At the same time, importance must be given to ensure that no innocent person faces harassment."

He emphasised, "The biggest lesson from July is that discrimination, misrule, or fascist rule must never be allowed to repeat in Bangladesh again."

Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Administration) Prof Mohammad Almojaaddede Alfesanee said, "The spirit of the July mass uprising is a continuation of the history and tradition of Dhaka University. Just like in the Language Movement, the Great Liberation War, and every democratic movement of the country, Dhaka University led the July mass uprising as well."

He asserted, "When Dhaka University awakens, Bangladesh awakens." He expressed hope that efforts to establish democratic values, justice, and a discrimination-free society in the country would continue by holding the spirit of July.

Treasurer Prof M Jahangir Alam Chowdhury stated, "The primary goal of the transformation initiated through the sacrifices of martyrs and the injured in the July mass uprising should be to build an inclusive, justice-based, and fair Dhaka University and Bangladesh."

He called upon everyone to work collectively to realise their dreams through proper evaluation of the martyrs' sacrifices.

During the discussion, the university presented honours to the family members of martyrs, including Shafiul Alam, father of martyr Md Wasim Akram; Alhajj Shahidul Islam Bhuiyan, father of martyr Farhan Faiyaz; Mir Mostafizur Rahman, father of martyr Mir Mugdho; Mohiuddin, father of martyr Yamin; and Abu Hossain, brother of martyr Md Abu Sayed Miah.

The martyrs' family members shared their feelings regarding the memories of the July mass uprising, the sacrifices, and the future of Bangladesh. Several students injured in the uprising also recounted their experiences and memories.

The event began with recitations from holy scriptures, followed by a special prayer and a one-minute silence to remember the martyrs of the July mass uprising.

National University Pro-Vice-Chancellor Prof Lutfor Rahman, DU Faculty of Arts Dean Prof Md Abul Kalam Sarkar, DU Alumni Association Office Secretary Bayezid Bostami, DU Chhatra Dal President Ganesh Chandra Roy Sahos, and University Transport Manager Kamrul Hasan also spoke at the event. The university proctor, deans of various faculties, department chairs, hall provosts, acting registrar, teachers, officials, and student leaders were also present.