Khulna University observes martyr Mir Mugdha’s second death anniversary, honouring July uprising martyrs and promoting democratic Bangladesh. Photo : BSS

KHULNA, July 18, 2026 (BSS) – Khulna University (KU) today observed the second martyrdom anniversary of July uprising martyr Mir Mahfuzur Rahman Mugdha, a student of the university's 2019 batch, with daylong programmes, calling for united efforts to build the discrimination-free, democratic Bangladesh envisioned by the July martyrs.

The observance began with the inauguration of a photo exhibition on the July movement at Adommo Bangla Square, followed by tree plantation.

A discussion titled "From the July Revolution to a New Democratic Bangladesh" was held at the Liaquat Ali Auditorium, presided over by KU Vice-Chancellor Prof Dr Md Rezaul Karim.

Among others, Khulna-1 lawmaker Amir Ejaz Khan, Khulna Development Authority (KDA) Chairman Advocate SM Shafiqul Alam Mona, Khulna WASA Chairman Bir Muktijoddha Mohammad Moniruzzaman, Bangladesh Cricket Board Director Shafiqul Alam Tuhin, Mir Mugdha's father Mir Mostafizur Rahman, martyr Sakib Raihan's father Sheikh Azizur Rahman, Pro-Vice-Chancellor Prof Dr Md Harunur Rashid Khan and Treasurer Prof Dr Md Nurunnabi addressed the programme.

Speakers paid tribute to the July martyrs and urged all to remain united in establishing a just, democratic and discrimination-free Bangladesh in line with their aspirations.
Addressing the function, MP Amir Ejaz Khan said the July uprising ended 17 years of  fascist rule and stressed the need to uphold the ideals of freedom of expression, justice and equality.

KDA Chairman Advocate SM Shafiqul Alam Mona said Mir Mugdha's supreme sacrifice had opened the way for a new democratic Bangladesh.

Khulna WASA Chairman Mohammad Moniruzzaman called for preserving an authentic record of the July fighters to avoid future controversy and said Mir Mugdha's sacrifice would continue to inspire future generations in building a just and equitable Bangladesh.

BCB Director Shafiqul Alam Tuhin recalled that Mugdha was shot while distributing water to thirsty protesters during the movement and said the government was working to realise the aspirations of the July martyrs through healthcare and employment initiatives for those affected by the uprising.

In his presidential speech, Vice-Chancellor Prof Dr Rezaul Karim said Mir Mugdha became a symbol of humanity by offering water to thirsty people even in the face of death.

He described the martyr's sacrifice as a lasting source of inspiration for standing courageously against injustice.

During the programme, Mugdha's bachelor's degree certificate was formally handed over to his father.

The families of martyrs Mir Mugdha and Sakib Raihan were honoured, while those injured in the July movement also received commemorative awards.

Teachers, students, university officials, political and civic leaders, journalists and representatives of social organisations attended the programmes.

Special prayers were offered for the eternal peace of the martyrs and the recovery of those injured in the movement, while another prayer programme was scheduled to be held at the university's central mosque after Maghrib prayers.