Women and Children Affairs Adviser Sharmeen Soneya Murshid has said that research and a publication will be undertaken to commemorate the lives and sacrifices of 11 women martyred during the July uprising last year.
Eleven women were martyred in July, and "we must preserve the stories of their struggles and sacrifices,” she said during a visit to the homes of Riya Gope in Narayanganj and Sumaiya in Siddhirganj on Sunday.
During the visits, the adviser spoke with Riya Gope’s parents as well as Sumaiya’s mother, siblings, and children.
“We want to publish research and a comprehensive publication on their lives. My two current priorities are, firstly, to ensure that these martyred women receive the full recognition and rights promised by the state, and secondly, to understand and support their families in their present circumstances.”
She continued: “Sumaiya has three younger brothers, along with her mother and children. We are working to ensure this family’s safety, secure the children’s education, and support their future livelihoods. We are also exploring how the resources and capacity of my ministry can be used to assist them.”
"Special state priority will be given to raising the children of these martyrs. The focus must be on their well-being and on the people who will nurture them with care. Our administration is working sincerely with this goal in mind. However, there are complications related to the allowances for martyr families. We are taking note of these issues, and the government should address them.”
Regarding international cooperation and the trial process, she said: “We have moved quickly to form our own tribunal—something that usually takes more time. That said, we must ensure that no injustice occurs in the effort to expedite the trial.”
She also emphasized: “The state will not act unjustly. And if a mistake is made, it is the state’s responsibility to correct it. We run an open government—anyone is free to point out our mistakes, even to criticize us, but we hope that criticism is accompanied by constructive suggestions.”
In response to journalists’ questions, she acknowledged: “Some mistakes were made in the initial stages due to the urgency of the situation. However, the deputy commissioners are now working to rectify them.”
During the visit, the adviser reiterated the government’s strong commitment to supporting the families of the martyred women and called for compassion and assistance at all levels of society.