Shibir holds mass protests demanding trial of July uprising killers

Shibir activists at a procession in Dhaka on 31 January. Photo: Collected

Leaders and activists of Bangladesh Islami Chhatrashibir on Friday (31 January) brought out mass processions across the country, including Dhaka, after the Jummah prayers, demanding trial for the killings during the July uprising. 

The protesters called for the prosecution of those involved in the killings and the seditious activities of ousted Awami League, including enforced disappearances and corruption.

In Dhaka, the procession started at the north gate of Baitul Mukarram National Mosque and ended at Shahbagh intersection via Paltan, National Press Club and Matsya Bhaban.

Central leaders of the organisation joined the procession.

After the procession in Shahbagh, the Secretary General of Bangladesh Islami Chhatrashibir Nurul Islam addressed a brief rally, saying, "Six months have passed since the July uprising, but we have yet to see any justice for the Awami League's crimes. 

He added, "By claiming to lift the people onto the highway of development, they have plundered, murdered, enforced disappearances, and established a reign of terror. Political prisoners have been killed under the guise of so-called crimes against humanity. Justice must be ensured, and this government must take action.

"For the last six months, we've seen some political parties not advocating for justice against fascism but instead getting involved in extortion at bus stands and tempo stands. They are trying to create divisions within the unity of the nation," he also said.

At the event, the party's office secretary Sibgatullah said, "We thought the killers of the Awami League would soon face justice in Bangladesh, but they have still not been arrested. The thugs of Chhatra League and Jubo League are still killing our brothers. No one will be spared until justice for the Awami League is ensured."

He warned those involved in politics with foreign support, saying, "Just like the Awami League, you too will be driven out from the soil of Bengal."

SM Farhad, president of Dhaka University unit Shibir, said, "From 2006 to 2025, Shibir has fought against fascism with all its strength. If anyone tries to bring this fascist party back, we will continue to struggle against them."

Shibir held mass processions in Dhaka and various parts of the country, including Bogura, Rangpur, Barisal, and Noakhali.