July Martyrs' Day observed 

The nation on Thursday observed July Martyrs' Day with solemnity, paying tribute to those killed during the July 2024 Mass Uprising and renewing a pledge to uphold democracy, justice and democratic institutions.

The day was observed for the second time through commemorative programmes organised by educational institutions, government and private organisations, political parties and socio cultural bodies across the country.

On this day in 2024, at least six people, including Begum Rokeya University English Department student Abu Sayeed and Chattogram college student Mohammad Wasim Akram, were killed in police firing during the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement.

Abu Sayeed's death became a defining moment of the movement after images showed him standing with his arms outstretched before police moments before he was shot in the chest. The incident triggered widespread public outrage and intensified the quota reform movement, which later evolved into a nationwide anti-government Mass Uprising.

The movement culminated on August 5, 2024, when the then prime minister Sheikh Hasina left the country amid sustained student-led protests and public demonstrations.

To mark the day, students from various educational institutions, alongside representatives of government and non-government organisations and political parties, paid tribute to the July martyrs.

Political parties and social and cultural organisations also arranged wreath laying ceremonies, discussion meetings, cultural programmes and prayer gatherings at different locations across the country in remembrance of those who lost their lives during the movement.

The observance concluded with renewed calls to preserve the ideals of the July uprising and strengthen democratic governance and the rule of law.