Photo: BSS

DHAKA, Aug 3, 2026 (BSS) - Cultural Affairs Minister Nitai Roy Chowdhury today said the country's political change during the July-August 2024 mass uprising was inevitable as people united against fascism in pursuit of democracy.

Speaking as the chief guest at a memorial meeting and award presentation ceremony for the families of those killed and injured in the July uprising at the Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy, the minister said people wanted a democratic society free from all forms of hegemony.

He said the developments between July 15 and August 5, 2024, reflected the people's aspiration for democracy and resulted in the defeat of the fascist force.

The minister said that many people had been subjected to enforced disappearances, killings and detention in the 'Aynaghar' while demanding voting rights and justice. He also said leaders and activists of the BNP and other political alliances had been victims of killings and enforced disappearances.

Nitai said the political change came after 18 years through the sacrifices made by students during the July mass uprising.

Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy Director General poet Rezauddin Stalin, who delivered the welcome address, described the killing of students during the July uprising as a rare and tragic chapter in the country's history.

He said the then ruling authorities resorted to violence to retain power.