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The 36th anniversary of the martyrdom of Shaheed Nazir Uddin Jihad, a key figure in Bangladesh’s anti-autocracy movement, is being observed today, commemorating his sacrifice in the struggle for democracy, fundamental rights and people’s freedom.
Jihad, a leader of Jatiyatabadi Chhatra Dal from Ullapara upazila in Sirajganj, was killed in police firing at a rally in Dhaka on October 10, 1990. The rally was organised by the BNP-led seven-party alliance as part of a nationwide movement demanding an end to the then autocratic regime of Hussain Muhammad Ershad.
At the time, Jihad was president of the Government Akbar Ali College unit of Jatiyatabadi Chhatra Dal. He travelled to Dhaka with around 60 other students from Ullapara to join the rally at Paltan.
At around 4:00pm, police charged the demonstrators with batons and opened fire, killing Jihad on the spot. His death became a defining moment in the anti-autocracy movement, intensifying protests against the Ershad regime and strengthening calls for democratic governance.
The movement had gathered momentum through demonstrations and protests by political parties, students and people from different walks of life, who were demanding the restoration of democracy and fundamental rights.
Jihad’s death further galvanised the movement, which eventually culminated in a mass uprising that forced Ershad to resign in December 1990. The political transition paved the way for the restoration of parliamentary democracy in Bangladesh.
His sacrifice continues to be remembered as part of the country’s struggle against authoritarian rule and for the establishment of democratic rights.
On the occasion, Prime Minister Tarique Rahman paid tribute to Jihad, saying the nation must fulfil the aspirations of the martyrs by building a self-reliant, secure and welfare-oriented state.
“Democracy’s renewed journey has begun in Bangladesh stained with Jihad’s blood,” he said in a message marking the anniversary.
Recalling the sacrifices made during the country’s democratic struggles, the Prime Minister said people like Jihad had repeatedly risen in protest whenever authoritarian rule deprived citizens of their rights, even at the cost of their lives.
He said the sacrifices of those who fought for democracy should inspire the nation to uphold people’s rights and work towards a state that ensures security, self-reliance and public welfare.
The Prime Minister also prayed for the eternal peace of Jihad’s soul.