Dhaka: The district administration has decided to remove the existing sculpture of Bir Shrestha Hamidur Rahman in Jhenaidah and replace it with a new one that more accurately reflects the War of Liberation hero’s appearance. The new sculpture is expected to be installed and unveiled at a suitable location in the town before Victory Day, which will be celebrated on December 16.

According to United News of Bangladesh, the decision was taken at a preparatory meeting chaired by Deputy Commissioner Md Noman Hossain at his office. The meeting was attended by officials, family members of Bir Shrestha Hamidur Rahman, freedom fighters, journalists, and representatives of political and social organizations. A 15-member committee has been formed to finalize the design of the new sculpture and recommend a suitable installation location.

During the meeting, members of Bir Shrestha Hamidur Rahman’s family and representatives of freedom fighters expressed dissatisfaction with the existing sculpture, stating that it did not resemble the war hero and has remained incomplete since its construction in 2019. They also alleged that the structure had deteriorated over time and that the surrounding area had become a gathering place for anti-social activities.

Participants noted that the previous project was marred by irregularities and negligence, which they described as disrespectful to the memory of the Bir Shrestha. The district administration emphasized that the new initiative aims to correct past mistakes by constructing a sculpture that accurately portrays Bir Shrestha Hamidur Rahman, enabling future generations to recognize and honor his contribution to the country’s War of Liberation.

The administration stated that work on the project will commence once the committee finalizes the site and submits its recommendations, with the goal of unveiling the sculpture ahead of this year’s Victory Day.