Dhaka University (DU) on Wednesday laid the foundation stone of the July Memorial, a monument to commemorate those killed during the July 2024 mass uprising.

DU Vice-Chancellor Prof ABM Obaidul Islam inaugurated the foundation stone at 10:38am as part of the university’s observance of the 2nd anniversary of the uprising.

Among those present were the fathers of July martyrs Mir Mahfuzur Rahman Mugdho, Farhan Faiyaz and Shaykh Ashabul Yamin, DU pro-vice chancellors, treasurer, deans of different faculties, the proctor, teachers, officers and students.

Speaking at the ceremony, the VC said the July mass uprising marked a turning point in the country’s history.

“Two years ago today, Bangladesh entered a new chapter through the July mass uprising. The sacrifices of the martyrs made it possible to achieve a new Bangladesh,” he said.

The VC paid tribute to those who lost their lives and those who were injured during the movement and prayed for eternal peace for the departed souls.

“To preserve the memory of the martyrs of the uprising, we are establishing the July Memorial,” he said.

Prof Obaidul alleged that the previous Awami League government had suppressed democratic rights and ignored the aspirations of the people during its years in office.

He also criticised the role of the then DU administration, alleging that dissenting voices had faced repression on the campus.

The VC called upon all to remain vigilant so that “fascism never returns” to the country.