July martyrs’ sacrifices liberated people from fascist rule: PM

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman said Saturday that the government is fully committed to fulfilling the hopes and aspirations of those who were killed, injured or victimised during the country’s democratic movements.

Speaking at a programme at the Prime Minister’s Office in Tejgaon, he said the government would make every possible effort, despite limited resources, to support families affected by enforced disappearances and killings, as well as those who lost loved ones or suffered injuries during the July mass uprising.

“Although no compensation can ever make up for such irreparable losses, we were with you, are with you and will remain with you,” Tarique said.

The prime minister described the event as a deeply painful occasion, saying the country was remembering people who should have been present but were lost because of their sacrifices. He said the sacrifices of the martyrs had helped free the country’s people from what he described as fascist rule.

He also recalled those who gave their lives during the 1971 Liberation War, subsequent democratic struggles and the July mass uprising, stressing that the government remained determined to fulfil the goals for which they sacrificed.

Tarique acknowledged that all commitments might not be fulfilled immediately due to various challenges, but pledged that the government would continue its efforts.

He described the sacrifices of movement activists and their families as a major source of strength and inspiration for the government, and urged them to continue supporting its efforts to meet the expectations of those who sacrificed their lives for the country.

The programme was organised to formally hand over appointment letters to 74 members of families of victims of enforced disappearance and killing, as well as families affected by or who lost members in the July mass uprising. Representatives of the affected families also spoke at the event and shared their experiences with the prime minister.