Dozens of family members of the July Uprising martyrs staged a protest at the Shahbagh intersection, bringing traffic to a standstill as they demanded justice and official recognition for the sacrifices of their loved ones.
Holding aloft photographs of the deceased and placards emblazoned with calls for justice, the demonstrators vociferously accused the interim government of indifference and neglect in addressing their grievances since midmorning on Thursday (6 February).
The protesters’ demands include the immediate extradition of Sheikh Hasina from India and her prosecution in connection with the July massacre.
“We have gone from door to door seeking justice and recognition for our martyrs, but instead of compassion, we were met with disrespect,” lamented one protester, whose son perished during the uprising.
The bereaved families further alleged that despite repeated attempts over several months, they have been denied an audience with Chief Adviser Dr Muhammad Yunus.
“We recently visited Jamuna, the official residence of the chief adviser, but his officials kept us waiting for six hours only to dismiss us without a meeting,” recounted another protester.
Criticism was also levelled at the ongoing trials related to the uprising, which the protesters derided as a “circus.”
They contended that many individuals responsible for orchestrating and executing the brutal crackdown have yet to be held accountable.
“Most of the perpetrators are still roaming free. This is an insult to the memory of those who gave their lives for this nation,” they declared.
The demonstrators have pledged to maintain their blockade at Shahbagh until their demands are met.
These include official recognition of the martyrs, equitable compensation for their families, and expeditious legal proceedings against all individuals implicated in the violence.
