Four months into the interim government’s tenure following the ousting of the fascist Hasina regime, victims of the July uprising continue to await full financial support despite receiving free treatment from the government.

The interim government established the July Shaheed Smriti Foundation to assist those killed and injured during the uprising, allocating Tk100 crore from the Chief Adviser’s Relief Fund.

While some injured individuals have received financial aid, many remain without the promised assistance, sparking mixed reactions.

The foundation initially offered Tk5 lakh to the families of martyrs and Tk1 lakh to the injured. However, according to its CEO, Mir Mahbubur Rahman Snigdho, the amount for the injured has been increased to Tk3 lakh, depending on the severity of the injuries. Despite this, numerous victims are still waiting for financial support.

At the National Institute of Traumatology and Orthopaedic Rehabilitation (NITOR) and the National Institute of Ophthalmology and Hospital (NIOH), many injured individuals expressed gratitude for the free treatment provided by the government but voiced frustration over delayed financial aid.

Yeasin Arafat, a college student injured by a gunshot, praised the quality of treatment but highlighted the gap in financial support.

“I received Tk1 lakh from the July Smriti Foundation, but I hope for additional assistance to recover fully,” he said.

Md Shakil, another student under treatment at NITOR, echoed similar sentiments. “The government is covering my treatment costs, but I have not received any financial aid yet,” he said.

Md Shahadat Hossain, a rickshaw puller from Noakhali, is in a dire situation. “I support a family of five, and my wife is six months pregnant. I cannot walk, and I have received no financial help. I have been promised Tk1 lakh but am still waiting for it,” he said, his voice laden with worry.

Victims also expressed frustration over delays in fulfilling promises.

Businessman Iyub Hossain, a supporter of the BNP, was beaten by Awami League activists during the uprising.

He said, “The treatment is good, but I have only received Tk5,000 from the BNP. I have applied to the foundation and am hopeful for more support.”

Currently, 74 patients injured during the uprising are admitted to two wards at NITOR, while 63 are receiving care at NIOH. Despite satisfactory treatment, the victims are united in their call for the government to deliver on its commitments.

“The government must act promptly to distribute the promised aid,” said a victim at NITOR, echoing the sentiments of many others struggling to rebuild their lives in the aftermath of the historic uprising.