During the mass uprising of students and citizens in July-August 2024, many people from various walks of life—including students and workers—were shot and lost their hands, legs, or eyes. However, they have not given up.
With their indomitable willpower and courage, they continue to move forward in their struggle to stand back up. Standing by their side in this fight is the Brac Limb and Brace Centre (BLBC).
BLBC has identified injured individuals from more than 14 hospitals across the country, including Dhaka Medical College Hospital and National Institute of Traumatology and Orthopaedic Rehabilitation (Nitor), and brought them from there. Initially, more than 30 cases of limb loss were documented.
So far, BLBC has provided financial assistance of Tk25,000 each to approximately 416 people. The total budget for this entire initiative is Tk12 crore, which is being managed with the support of Brac Bank, the Association of Bankers Bangladesh (ABB) and some individual donors.
Of the 416 people, around 250 were selected to receive medical support. A total of 38 artificial hands and legs were planned, of which approximately 34 have already been fitted—four hands and 30 legs.
In addition, braces have been fitted for 61 people. The process of fitting artificial hands and legs for the remaining patients is ongoing. Currently, three individuals are practising at the residential facility. BLBC is bearing all costs, including artificial limb fitting, all kinds of medical treatment, therapy, psychological treatment, travel expenses, food, and follow-up.
On June 26, on the office premises of BLBC in Mohammadpur, Dhaka, Dhaka Tribune had an opportunity to directly meet and talk to several young people who were severely injured and lost limbs in last year’s July movement and later had artificial limbs fitted with BLBC’s assistance.
Many of these injured youths are currently under long-term treatment, psychological support and rehabilitation programs. Each of their lives carries a story of turning around from a tragic point.
Kazi Raimul Islam, 24: He was a student in the second semester of the third year at Daffodil University. He joined the movement on July 17, 2024. On August 5, 2024, he was shot from behind in the left leg in front of Jatrabari Police Station, and the bullet exited through the front.
He was treated at Dhaka Medical, the Heart Institute, and later the Orthopaedic Hospital. As the leg was completely damaged, it had to be amputated. Afterwards, Brac’s medical team contacted him, brought him to BLBC, and fitted an artificial leg there.
Currently, he can walk normally, although playing sports and riding a bike are no longer possible. He expressed his gratitude for Brac’s support.
Mohammad Zakir Shikdar, 29: Having studied up to the intermediate level, he worked at a clothing store. On July 17, 2024, he was shot in the knee in front of Brac University. After treatment at Farazi Hospital, Dhaka Medical, the Heart Institute, and the Orthopaedic Hospital, his leg had to be amputated.
Brac’s medical team proactively contacted him and arranged for an artificial leg at BLBC. In October, his artificial leg was fitted, and now he can walk normally. He received financial assistance and coverage of medical expenses from Brac.
Jahid, 24: He was an accounting student at Government Barishal College and worked at a glass shop in Khilgaon. On July 19, 2024, he was shot in front of Rampura Police Station and suffered police torture.
The upper part of his left arm was severely damaged, and he was shot in the chest. He received treatment at Dhaka Medical and the Orthopaedic Hospital. Since November, he has been receiving treatment and therapy at BLBC.
His upper arm has improved. He also received Tk25,000 in financial assistance from Brac. Thanks to treatment through Brac, he is much healthier now. Brac is covering all expenses of his treatment.
Md Al-Amin, 37: A businessman from Mymensingh. On August 5, in front of the Jubo League office, he was struck with a machete, resulting in the lower part of his left hand being severed; he also sustained injuries to his leg and head.
While he was admitted at the burn unit in Dhaka, Brac contacted him and provided assistance. On September 28, 2024, he went to BLBC, where an artificial hand was made and fitted for him.
He stayed there for 25 days, with BLBC covering all treatment and costs. Currently, he can work normally and expressed his gratitude for Brac’s contribution.
Dr Md Shahinul Haque Ripon, head of Brac’s health program, said: “Among those injured in the July mass uprising, we have provided financial assistance of Tk25,000 each to about 416 people and continued medical services to 250. Those who needed it were promptly provided with artificial hands, legs and braces. Additionally, psychological treatment was given because most of the injured are young and, due to their age, many were mentally shattered.”
He added: “If any new injured persons come forward, they too will receive treatment upon verification. Nearly 80% of this treatment support has come from Brac Bank. If other organizations want, they can participate by providing financial assistance. We still need another Tk12crore. We are not stopping at treatment only. For the next five years, follow-up, exercises and other support will continue.”
He also mentioned that, if necessary, financial assistance for the rehabilitation of the injured will be provided.
