Bangladesh Islami Chhatra Shibir today (7 December) launched a two-day photo exhibition titled ‘Framed July 36: Before and after the uprising’ at the Poet Sufia Kamal Auditorium of the National Museum in Dhaka.
The exhibition, inaugurated by Shibir Central President Monzurul Islam, is open to the public on 7 and 8 December from 11am to 7pm.
In the inauguration programme, key figures shared their experiences and memories of the uprising. The programme began with a Quran recitation led by Shibir Secretary General Zahidul Islam.
Among the speakers were Abul Kalam, the father of Shaheed Adil; Helal Uddin, who was shot in the stomach at Mohammadpur Bus Stand; and Hasnatul Islam Faiyaz, a prominent activist who was arrested during the movement.
Speaking at the inauguration, Monzurul Islam highlighted the sacrifices made during the 2024 mass movement.
“The martyrdom of individuals like Abu Sayed, Mugdha, Wasim, and Shanto symbolises the beginning of the fight against the fascism that plagued our nation. The movement was a united revolution of students and citizens, transcending political affiliations,” he said.
Monzurul expressed concern about efforts to undermine the movement’s legacy. “A malicious force is attempting to turn this revolution into a counter-revolution. There is hesitation in acknowledging the sacrifices of the martyrs and the injured. The unparalleled spirit of those who gave everything for the cause is now at risk of being forgotten in today’s post-revolution reality,” Monzurul added.
Reflecting on historical challenges, he stated, “From 1757 to 1947, imperialist powers like the British hindered the cultural and literary progress of Bengal. Even today, foreign interference threatens our independence and sovereignty.
“Before the 2024 uprising, mass media was not free, and citizens were deprived of the right to voice their opinions. When groups like Islami Chhatra Shibir resisted, they faced brutal oppression.”
Monzurul urged all sectors of society to uphold the revolutionary spirit of July and protect the sacrifices that made it possible.
