Main Uddin - Photo : BSS

NARSINGDI, April 30, 2025 (BSS) – Main Uddin (24), a battery-run auto-rickshaw driver from Baroialgi village in Shibpur upazila of the district, has survived a near-death experience after being seriously injured by bullets reportedly fired by police during the anti-discrimination student movement.

Despite recovering physically after months of medical treatment, his future still remains uncertain.

Main, the sole breadwinner of his family consisting of his wife and four-year-old daughter, joined the student-led movement on July 19, 2024, in front of Itakhola Highway Police Outpost, demanding the resignation of the Sheikh Hasina government.

During the protest, he was hit in the right hand and abdomen by bullets when police were firing indiscriminately at the protesters.

Then, he was rushed to Dhaka Medical College Hospital (DMCH) in the capital, where doctors discovered that a bullet had pierced his esophagus, causing severe internal damage. Emergency reconstructive surgery was performed, and a colostomy bag was installed, forcing him to rely on it for waste elimination.
After enduring months of physical and emotional suffering, Main underwent another major surgery on October 23 last year to remove the colostomy bag. He has since resumed a somewhat normal life.

Superintendent of Narsingdi District Hospital Dr ANM Mizanur Rahman said Main’s journey through physical and mental agony was heartbreaking. Living with a colostomy bag was both uncomfortable and socially isolating, he added.

“Thanks to our medical team’s relentless effort, he has recovered,” Dr Rahman said, adding, Main is now able to defecate normally but must live with lifelong dietary and physical restrictions.

Main’s family, however, fell into a severe financial crisis while covering his treatment costs. Although supported by relatives and fellow protestors, the economic burden has left lasting scars.

Although it was possible to cover the medical expenses with the help of his family and fellow protesters, Main’s ability to work is no longer what it was before.

“I never thought I’d return to a normal life. By the grace of Almighty Allah and doctors’ efforts, I survived. But I can no longer do heavy labor,” said July hero Main.

“If I could get a job or some stable form of employment, I could somehow support my family. It is my humble request to the government,” he pleaded.
Dr Rahman said though Main recovered, he needs to follow strict medical advice for the rest of his life.

“Saving a young man like Main Uddin is a source of pride for us as doctors. But it is now the responsibility of all of society and the government to ensure his economic security,” he said.

Main’s life struggle is not just a story of his personal suffering; it is also a story of the sacrifice and struggle of ordinary people, who joined the anti-discrimination movement.