State endorses legacy of July Uprising
Abu Jakir :
Chief Adviser Dr Muhammad Yunus formally unveiled the long-awaited July Proclamation, declaring the student-led mass uprising of 2024 a constitutionally significant event to be granted formal state recognition.
The announcement was made at a symbolic ceremony held on Manik Mia Avenue, marking the first anniversary of the fall of the Awami League government. The event was attended by student leaders, civil society representatives, and political figures.
Calling the proclamation “a national milestone,” Dr Yunus said it “captures the spirit and sacrifice of a generation that stood up against fascism.”
“Through the July-August uprising, the people of Bangladesh have reclaimed the values of democracy, justice, and sovereignty. This proclamation enshrines that achievement,” he stated.
The 28-point document, described by the interim government as a “constitutional bridge between the past and the future,” is set to be annexed to the reformed Constitution to be adopted by the next elected Parliament.
The concept of the proclamation was initially proposed by Students Against Discrimination and the National Citizen Committee in December 2024. Although the interim government was not initially involved, it later endorsed the initiative following widespread public support and began consultations with political parties earlier this year.
The final version builds on a 26-point draft, with two key additions: one recognising fallen protestors as “national heroes”, and another committing to a sustainable and climate-resilient future.
The proclamation sets out a broad historic, political, and legal narrative intended to redefine Bangladesh’s democratic trajectory. Notable highlights include:
“Points 1-2 link the 2024 uprising to the democratic ideals of the 1971 Liberation War.
“Points 3-5 criticise the post-independence shift towards authoritarianism, particularly the establishment of BAKSAL.
” Points 6-8 attribute the rise of authoritarianism, including the 1/11 takeover and Sheikh Hasina’s tenure, to domestic and foreign conspiracies.
” Points 9-10 highlight systemic corruption and environmental mismanagement under the previous regime.
” Points 11-13 denounce the elections of 2014, 2018, and 2024 as illegitimate and document state repression.
” Points 14-16 chronicle the roots of the student-led resistance, citing grievances over quotas and partisanship.
” Points 17-18 celebrate the August 2024 regime change as a people’s victory.
” Points 19-21 defend the legitimacy of the interim government as a product of popular will.
” Points 22-24 call for justice for human rights abuses and protection for those involved in the protests.
” Points 25-26 outline a vision for an accountable, inclusive, and green democracy.
” Points 27-28 affirm the proclamation’s legal standing and its future constitutional embedding.