July uprising families of those killed and injured in Bangladesh staged a powerful sit-in outside the Secretariat in Dhaka today, demanding the immediate resignation of Law Adviser Asif Nazrul. The protest, which began at 11:15 AM outside the Jatiya Press Club, saw demonstrators march to Gate No. 2 of the Secretariat by 12:30 PM, briefly halting traffic in the area as they voiced their anguish and anger.
A Cry for Justice Amid Allegations of Impunity
The protesters, comprising grieving families and survivors of the violent July uprising, chanted slogans such as, “Resign, resign, Asif Nazrul must resign,” and “My brother is in the grave, why are the killers outside?” Their demands centred on what they perceive as a failure of the judiciary to deliver justice. Allegations surfaced that individuals accused in the July massacre cases were securing bail through illicit means, allowing perpetrators to evade accountability. The families called for the removal of judges accused of enabling this impunity, alongside their primary demand for Asif Nazrul’s resignation.
The sit-in disrupted vehicular movement outside the Secretariat, drawing attention to the protesters’ plight. Their chants, including “Killers roam free, what is the judiciary doing?” echoed the deep frustration and pain felt by those who lost loved ones or suffered injuries during the unrest.
Background Of July Uprising
The July uprising, a period of intense civil unrest in Bangladesh, left numerous families devastated by loss and injury. The protesters argue that the lack of progress in holding those responsible accountable has compounded their grief. Their demonstration today was not only a call for Asif Nazrul’s resignation but also a broader plea for systemic judicial reforms to ensure justice for the victims of the uprising.
Growing Public Outcry
The sit-in reflects a growing public outcry over perceived leniency in the judicial process. Families and survivors expressed their distrust in the current system, pointing to the release of accused individuals as evidence of corruption or mismanagement. The emotional weight of their protest was palpable, with slogans and demands resonating with passersby and drawing significant attention to their cause. The demonstration underscores the ongoing tension between the public and authorities in Bangladesh, as citizens continue to seek accountability and transparency in the aftermath of the July uprising.
A Call For Change
As the protesters blocked the road outside the Secretariat, their message was clear: justice delayed is justice denied. The demand for Asif Nazrul’s resignation is seen as a step towards addressing the systemic issues that have left victims and their families feeling abandoned by the legal system. With chants of “One demand, one point, Asif Nazrul’s resignation,” the families made it evident that their fight for justice will not waver.
The sit-in concluded with a renewed resolve among the protesters to continue their campaign until their demands are met. The July uprising victims and their supporters remain steadfast, urging authorities to act swiftly to restore faith in the judiciary and deliver justice for those affected by the tragedy.
Published in SouthAsianDesk, August 19th, 2025
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