‘Why was my son killed?’- Mothers break down at memorial event in Chattogram

"My son stood up against injustice. Then why was he shot and killed? What was his crime? I demand justice for this murder," a mother cried out. 

The question, posed during the 'Mothers of July' gathering at the Chattogram Circuit House conference room today (2 August), left the audience speechless.

Tears flowed freely, and silence gripped the room as grieving mothers, their voices trembling with pain, stood to demand justice for the deaths of their sons, young lives lost in pursuit of justice and a better future.

Organised by the Chattogram District Administration, the event was both a memorial and a call for accountability. At 4 pm, mothers of the July martyrs came together to share their stories at a parent assembly and documentary screening.

Each mother echoed a singular, anguished demand: "We want justice."

Ruby Akhter, mother of a July martyr, Engineer Omar, broke down in tears as she remembered her son's ideals and determination. 

"My son dreamed of a country where people could speak without fear. His father had asked him not to join the protests, but he would say, 'Baba, if we stay silent, nothing will ever change", she said while breaking down to tears. 

Chattogram Divisional Commissioner Mohammad Ziauddin called for moral reckoning and institutional accountability as he reflected on the lives lost in July. 

"These young individuals were the promise of our nation's future," he said. "We must ensure that those responsible are held accountable under the law. The sacrifice of our children must serve as a wake-up call to stand united against injustice."

Chattogram Deputy Commissioner Farida Khanam spoke through emotion: "The grief of these families echoes in my own heart. We will always stand by the families of the martyrs. You will find us beside you whenever you need.