Mural of Int'l Mother Language Day pioneer, Shaheed Minar vandalised in Cumilla

Unidentified individuals have vandalised a Shaheed Minar and the mural of Rafiqul Islam, a freedom fighter and one of the key figures behind the declaration of 21 February as International Mother Language Day, located beside the Cumilla Collectorate School and College.

However, the Cumilla district administration has not confirmed exactly when the vandalism occurred.

Speaking on condition of anonymity, a teacher from the Collectorate School and College, told The Business Standard that the mural has been in a damaged state for several months and was vandalised by unidentified individuals at some point.

In response to the backlash, Cumilla Deputy Commissioner Md Amirul Kaisar said, "The mural would be reconstructed."

"It's unclear exactly when the vandalism took place, but the authorities will begin repairs without delay," he added.

Former district Muktijuddha Sangshad commander Shafiul Alam Babul condemned the act, calling it "deeply shameful."

He said, "Freedom fighter Rafiqul Islam elevated Cumilla's reputation through his role in the international recognition of 21 February. He and others wrote to the United Nations to push for the day's designation.

"We demand swift restoration of the mural and strict action against the perpetrators."

The mural and Shaheed Minar, located within the Rajbari compound, were inaugurated on 21 February 2015.

Images of the damaged mural and Shaheed Minar began circulating on social media yesterday morning (25 June).

The incident has drawn criticism from freedom fighters and civic activists, many of whom are demanding immediate restoration of the mural and action against those responsible.