Leaders and activists in Rangpur observed July Martyrs Day on Thursday morning by paying tribute at the July Memorial. Speakers said the spirit of the July martyrs would inspire efforts to strengthen democracy and advance national prosperity. Participants included State Minister for Water Resources Farhad Hossain Azad, Rangpur Development Authority Chairman Shamsuzzaman Shamu, local BNP and Chhatra Dal leaders, Jamaat and Islami Chhatra Shibir members, and representatives from local and divisional administrations and police.

Liberation War Affairs Minister stated that under Prime Minister Tarique Rahman’s leadership, the ruling party is working to institutionalize democracy with cooperation from the opposition. In Pirganj’s Babonpur village, Dhaka North Jamaat leader S.M. Khaliduzzaman expressed concern that the country is moving toward fascism and that the ideals of martyr Abu Sayeed remain unfulfilled. BNP’s student wing president Rakibul Islam Rakib and Islami Chhatra Shibir president Nur Hossain Mohammad Saddam also visited Abu Sayeed’s grave, calling for justice and warning of possible street protests if delays continue.

The commemorations reflected differing political narratives but a shared emphasis on democratic values and justice for past violence.