Bangladesh marks uprising anniversary under strict security during grand celebration
Dhaka: Thousands gathered at Manik Mia Avenue, bordering the South side of the National Parliament House Complex in Sher‑e‑Bangla Nagar, Dhaka, to commemorate the first anniversary of last year’s mass uprising that overthrew the previous administration led by Sheikh Hasina. The event took place amid heightened security measures.
The interim government, leading a population of 170 million, has designated the day a national holiday. People from across the country were brought in using eight pairs of special trains, and garment factories were ordered to close so workers could participate. Employees from various banks were also directed to attend.
The festivities commenced with performances by leading music bands and popular cultural artists, making it a day of national pride and solidarity.
Chief Adviser to reveal historic declaration
Later today, Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus is scheduled to formally introduce the “July declaration”, an official statement outlining 26 political, constitutional, and governance reforms linked to the 2024 uprising.
He is also set to address the nation via state TV and radio this evening, reinforcing the interim government’s vision.
Speaking on the anniversary, Yunus remarked, “It was on this very day, one year ago, that the July Uprising reached its triumph, liberating our beloved nation from the grip of long-standing fascist rule.” He also added that, “the interim government is committed to restoring the state power to the people through a peaceful, fair, and transparent election, as part of a sustainable political solution.
Despite the public celebration, Human Rights Watch criticised the interim administration for failing to deliver on its promised human rights reforms. “The hope of the thousands who braved lethal violence a year ago when they opposed Sheikh Hasina's abusive rule to build a rights-respecting democracy remains unfulfilled,” said Meenakshi Ganguly, HRW’s deputy Asia director.
She also warned that the interim government appears overwhelmed. “The interim government appears stuck, juggling an unreformed security sector, sometimes violent religious hardliners, and political groups that seem more focused on extracting vengeance on Hasina's supporters than protecting Bangladeshis' rights,” she added.
High alert in the capital
Security agencies are on high alert as the country marks the uprising anniversary. Checkpoints and street searches by police and other law enforcement units are ongoing throughout Dhaka.
Sheikh Hasina was removed from office last August through a student-led revolution, known as the July uprising. She subsequently fled to India, and Nobel Laureate Muhammad Yunus assumed leadership of the interim government.
Meanwhile, the Bangladesh Awami League remains banned, and August is being observed as a mourning month in recognition of the assassination of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and his family on 15 August 1975.
With ANI inputs