Staff Reporter :
Law Adviser Asif Nazrul emphasised the critical importance of preserving the opportunity to rebuild the nation, an opportunity earned through the sacrifices of its youth, during an address yesterday on Martyred Intellectuals’ Day.
Speaking at the Martyred Intellectuals Memorial in Mirpur, Dhaka, he urged the nation not to waste this “second chance.”
“The second opportunity to build the nation, which we have received through the sacrifices of our youth, must not be squandered in any way. This is our commitment on the Martyred Intellectuals’ Day,” he told reporters after paying tribute to the martyrs.
Reflecting on the Liberation War and subsequent events, Asif Nazrul highlighted the role of freedom fighters, driven by an unwavering love for the country, and the July mass uprising that carried forward their spirit.
“The freedom fighters participated in the Liberation War driven by love for the country. The July mass uprising occurred as a continuation of that spirit,” he said.
The law adviser commended the courage and determination of the students who spearheaded the July uprising. “During the uprising, students fearlessly fought for democracy, people’s rights, and the creation of a society free from discrimination. Coming to the Martyred Intellectuals Memorial today, I remember their bravery and sacrifice,” he added.
Despite the progress made, Asif Nazrul expressed disappointment over the country’s failure to realize the aspirations of a prosperous and just society envisioned during the Liberation War. He attributed this shortcoming to a specific mindset and the inadequacies of certain political leaders.
“Despite the sacrifices of many in 1971, we could not realize the dream of a prosperous and just nation. Let us not allow this failure to repeat,” he urged. Calling for a renewed commitment to democratic values and inclusivity, he emphasized the importance of honoring the martyrs by building a fair and equitable society.
Shafiqul Alam, press secretary to the chief adviser, also paid tribute to the martyred intellectuals and reflected on their enduring legacy. “The ‘new Bangladesh’ being actively built today is a continuation of their envisionment-an independent, forward-moving country for which they sacrificed their lives,” he stated.
Shafiqul Alam drew parallels between recent events and the tragic history of 1971, citing the disappearance of six key student leaders during the July uprising. “We saw in July the same situation as when the Pakistani forces took away intellectuals in 1971. Everyone saw how the six main student leaders were taken away,” he remarked.
The solemn observance of Martyred Intellectuals’ Day serves as a stark reminder of the sacrifices made for Bangladesh’s independence and the continued need for vigilance to safeguard the nation’s future.
