State Minister for Social Welfare Barrister Farzana Sharmin on Thursday alleged that Pro-fascist forces are attempting to discredit the July Mass Uprising, saying the movement was the result of the collective efforts of pro-democracy political parties, students and the public rather than any single group.
Speaking as the chief guest at the inauguration of the seven-day Inter-Hall Debate Competition 2026, organised by the Sher-e-Bangla Agricultural University Debating Society in Dhaka, she said the competition to claim sole credit for the uprising was weakening its original spirit.
"Although fascism has been removed from power, its roots have not yet been eradicated," she said, adding that the current government was elected by the people and deserved respect.
The state minister urged young people to play a leading role in building a new Bangladesh, saying the country's transformation would be possible through the combined efforts of youth and people from all walks of life.
"The vision of 'Bangladesh First' and 'Bangladesh for All' can only be realised through collective participation," she said.
Vice-Chancellor Prof Dr Md Abdul Latif and Debate for Democracy Chairman Hassan Ahamed Chowdhury Kiron also addressed the event as special guests.
Kiron said democracy thrives on respecting differing opinions and making decisions through dialogue.
He alleged that the previous government had weakened democratic institutions through uncontested elections, undermined parliament and constitutional bodies, and suppressed political opposition.
He said the July uprising reflected years of accumulated public frustration over alleged repression, enforced disappearances, killings and political discrimination.
Calling the July uprising a historic milestone after the 1971 Liberation War, Kiron said it symbolised national unity and warned against attempts to create divisions over its legacy.
He also said the July martyrs and participants would be remembered as national heroes, adding that both the Liberation War and the July uprising would remain enduring chapters in Bangladesh's history.
The programme, chaired by Prof Dr Md Tajul Islam Chowdhury, moderator of the Sher-e-Bangla Agricultural University Debating Society, was also addressed by Pro-Vice-Chancellor Prof Dr Md Belal Hossain, Treasurer Prof Md Abul Bashar and Director of the Agricultural Information Service Md Mosihur Rahman, among others.
