Bangladesh Jatiyatabadi Chhatra Dal (JCD) paid tribute to the martyrs of the July-August 2024 Mass Uprising through a commemorative programme titled "Aloy Aloy Smriti Samujjwal" (Memories Illuminated by Light) at the Central Shaheed Minar early Wednesday.
The event, held at midnight as part of a month-long programme marking the second anniversary of the Uprising, featured the national anthem, a candlelight vigil and the laying of floral tributes in honour of those who lost their lives during the movement.
JCD leaders and activists from the central committee and different organisational units began gathering at the Central Shaheed Minar from 11:00pm on Tuesday ahead of the programme.
Addressing the gathering as the chief guest, BNP Senior Joint Secretary General and Political Adviser to the Prime Minister Ruhul Kabir Rizvi said, "This light is not merely to dispel temporary darkness; it is a light that illuminates the entire world. The memory of July will continue to enlighten us and inspire us to stand against injustice."
Rizvi said JCD had endured 17 years of repression and persecution while continuing its political struggle, describing the July Mass Uprising as one of the most significant expressions of that long movement.
Recalling those who were killed during the uprising, he said the sacrifices of the martyrs could never be confined to a particular day or month, adding that their legacy would continue to inspire future generations in the fight against injustice. He also urged students to remain vigilant against any resurgence of fascism.
Presiding over the programme, JCD Central President Rakibul Islam Rakib said the event was organised in memory of the thousands of students and citizens who lost their lives during the Mass Uprising, including 142 JCD leaders, activists and supporters.
Rakib announced that the programme would be observed annually at the University of Dhaka and across the country, saying the sacrifices of those who laid down their lives for democracy and freedom would never be forgotten.
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