The Mujibnagar Memorial Complex in Meherpur, a key site preserving the legacy of Bangladesh’s 1971 Liberation War, remains in ruins months after large-scale vandalism, with no visible progress on restoration.
Built to commemorate the oath-taking of the country’s first provisional government, the complex once offered a visual narrative of the war through hundreds of sculptures depicting the 11 sectors of the Liberation War and major historic moments.
However, the site suffered extensive damage on August 5, 2024, when a group of attackers carried out coordinated vandalism and looting, taking advantage of a breakdown in law and order, according to eyewitnesses.
More than a hundred people reportedly entered the premises armed with rods, bamboo sticks and hammers, systematically destroying sculptures and infrastructure.
Among the first targets was a sculpture of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, followed by installations portraying key events of the Liberation War.
The attackers also damaged the guard of honour sculpture depicting tribute to acting president Syed Nazrul Islam, leaving parts scattered across the grounds.
The complex, designed in the shape of Bangladesh’s map and featuring around 600 sculptures, has since been reduced to broken concrete and debris.
Locals say the destruction represents not only physical damage but also an erosion of historical memory.
Evidence suggests the attack was organised, with assailants reportedly disabling CCTV cameras and removing hard disks from the control room.
Railings, iron rods, electrical equipment and even the main gate were also taken, indicating looting alongside vandalism.
Security personnel on duty said they were unable to intervene as the law-and-order situation deteriorated amid a police work stoppage.
Ansar members stationed at the site said they repeatedly sought instructions from local authorities but received none, forcing them to take shelter inside their camp.
“In the absence of direction, we had to prioritise our safety,” said Subedar Robiul Islam, in charge of the Ansar camp at the complex.
Analysts say such incidents reflect how political instability can leave heritage sites exposed, with administrative gaps preventing timely protection.
Following the attack, political leaders traded blame, while denying direct involvement. Allegations remain that the investigation has made little progress.
A preliminary assessment submitted by former Meherpur Deputy Commissioner Dr Abdus Salam to the Ministry of Liberation War Affairs in September 2025 estimated the loss at around Tk 61 lakh, though officials believe the actual damage could be higher. No funds have yet been allocated for restoration.
Freedom fighter Subhash Mallick, who has helped maintain the memorial since its inauguration in 1987, warned that continued neglect is accelerating the site’s deterioration.
“The broken sculptures lying under the open sky are being rapidly damaged by rain and sun. Without urgent steps, much of it may be beyond restoration,” he said.
The memorial was built to honour the historic events of April 17, 1971, when Bangladesh’s first provisional government took oath at Baidyanathtala -- later named Mujibnagar -- providing leadership to the Liberation War.
Its current condition, observers say, raises broader concerns about the country’s ability to preserve sites tied to its struggle for independence.
