Jamaat Chief Shafiqur Urges Observance of Martyred Intellectuals Day and Victory Day with Dignity

Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Dr. Shafiqur Rahman has called upon the nation to observe Martyred Intellectuals Day (December 14) and Victory Day (December 16) with solemnity and due dignity, describing them as two of the most important and meaningful days in Bangladesh’s national history.

In a press release issued today (December 13), Shafiqur Rahman paid tribute to the martyred intellectuals and the martyrs of the Liberation War who sacrificed their lives for the country's independence and sovereignty.

He stated that these days are "eternal reminders of sacrifice, struggle and pride" and hold profound significance in the national life.

Shafiqur noted that the nation is observing these days at a critical time, having recently emerged from a "fascist regime" through a united movement of students and the public (referencing the July Uprising).

He offered prayers for those martyred during the July Uprising, extending condolences to their families and wishing a speedy recovery to the injured.

The Jamaat chief cautioned that "domestic and foreign collaborators of fascism are still attempting to destabilise the country through conspiracies," citing the recent attack on Sharif Osman Hadi on December 12 as a "glaring example."

He urged active participation in observing the two national days by organizing discussion meetings, rallies, and prayers, with a firm commitment to protect the country's independence and sovereignty and establish people's rights.

Shafiqur extended Victory Day greetings and wished for overall peace, prosperity, and well-being for the country. Jamaat’s Program: Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami announced a three-day program: December 14: Discussion meeting at the Krishibid Institution Hall, Dhaka, for Martyred Intellectuals Day. December 15: Discussion meeting at the Institution of Diploma Engineers, Bangladesh. December 16 (Tuesday): A youth marathon at 7 am at the Suhrawardy Udyan, Dhaka, organized by the party's central Youth and Sports Department.

The press release mentions the historical context that Jamaat-e-Islami was actively anti-independence during the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War, collaborating with the Pakistani military. The party was designated as "anti-liberation forces" and banned by the initial government, though it later re-entered politics.