Dhaka: State Minister for Social Welfare Barrister Farzana Sharmin on Thursday alleged that pro-fascist forces are attempting to discredit the July Mass Uprising, asserting that the movement was the result of the collective efforts of pro-democracy political parties, students, and the public rather than any single group.
According to United News of Bangladesh, the state minister made these remarks while speaking as the chief guest at the inauguration of the seven-day Inter-Hall Debate Competition 2026, organized by the Sher-e-Bangla Agricultural University Debating Society in Dhaka. She expressed concerns that the competition to claim sole credit for the uprising was weakening its original spirit. She emphasized that although fascism has been removed from power, its roots have not yet been eradicated, and she urged respect for the current government elected by the people.
The state minister called on young people to play a leading role in building a new Bangladesh, emphasizing the potential transformation through the combined efforts of youth and people from all walks of life. She highlighted the vision of ‘Bangladesh First’ and ‘Bangladesh for All’ as realizable only through collective participation.
Vice-Chancellor Prof Dr. Md Abdul Latif and Debate for Democracy Chairman Hassan Ahamed Chowdhury Kiron also addressed the event as special guests. Kiron underscored that democracy thrives on respecting differing opinions and making decisions through dialogue. He criticized the previous government for weakening democratic institutions through uncontested elections and suppressing political opposition.
Kiron described the July uprising as a reflection of accumulated public frustration over alleged repression, enforced disappearances, killings, and political discrimination. He called the uprising a historic milestone after the 1971 Liberation War, symbolizing national unity, and warned against attempts to create divisions over its legacy. He affirmed that the July martyrs and participants would be remembered as national heroes, with both the Liberation War and the July uprising remaining enduring chapters in Bangladesh’s history.
The programme, chaired by Prof Dr. Md Tajul Islam Chowdhury, moderator of the Sher-e-Bangla Agricultural University Debating Society, was also addressed by Pro-Vice-Chancellor Prof Dr. Md Belal Hossain, Treasurer Prof Md Abul Bashar, and Director of the Agricultural Information Service Md Mosihur Rahman, among others.