Photo: BSS

JAHANGIRNAGAR UNIVERSITY, Aug 6, 2026 (BSS) - Water Resources Minister Md Shahiduddin Chowdhury Anee today underscored the need for preserving unity among the forces behind the July Uprising, saying any division among pro-democracy groups would only create an opportunity for 'fascist forces' to regain ground.

Speaking as the chief guest at a doa and discussion marking the second anniversary of the July Uprising 2024 at Jahangirnagar University (JU), the minister urged students and political parties to remain united in protecting the ideals and achievements of the July Mass Uprising. 

"The spirit of the July Uprising must never be divided. If divisions emerge among those who fought together, the beneficiaries will be the forces that people rejected through sacrifice and struggle," he said.

The programme began at 4:30 pm at the university's Jannatul Ferdous Senate Building with Vice-Chancellor Prof Dr Mohammad Kamrul Ahsan in the chair.

Pro-VC (Academic) Prof Dr Md Shamsul Alam and Pro-VC (Administration) Prof Dr Mohammad Nazrul Islam attended the programme as special guests, while Proctor Prof Dr Md Zakir Hossain convened it.

Referring to recent political activities involving leaders of the deposed Awami League, Anee alleged that attempts are being made from abroad to create an impression that conditions in Bangladesh are becoming favourable for their return. 

He said, "The nation would remain vigilant to ensure that authoritarian politics could not re-establish itself."

Sharing his personal political experiences, Anee said he had been arrested numerous times during the previous government's tenure but never compromised his political principles despite repeated imprisonment and legal harassment.

Addressing students, the minister praised the role played by Jahangirnagar University during the July movement, saying the university had demonstrated unity and determination at a critical moment in the country's history.

Speaking on employment, Anee said merit must remain the principal criterion in public recruitment. Referring to appointments under his ministry, he said no consideration had been given to political identity and recruitment processes were being conducted on the basis of qualifications and competence.

He said the sacrifices made by students during the July Uprising should be properly documented and conveyed to future generations so that the values of democracy, justice and people's rights continue to inspire the nation.

Following the discussion, a special doa and munajat were offered seeking eternal peace for the souls of those who were martyred in the July Uprising as well as continued peace, stability and prosperity for the country.

Teachers, students, officers, employees, family members of martyrs and invited guests attended the programme.