Uproar as sculptures of women removed from Dhaka July uprising memorial
A commemorative monument dedicated to the women who participated in and lost their lives during the July mass uprising has become the subject of controversy in Dhaka’s Uttara area. The "July Shaheed Nari Mancha," located at the Diyabari roundabout near Milestone School and College, features a series of pillars adorned with revolutionary slogans and a clenched fist, symbolizing the movement. However, the central section of the structure, which houses the busts of ten women, has been shrouded in black cloth, sparking widespread concern and public debate.
According to local reports, the veiling of the sculpture has been a recurring issue. Area residents and workers, including local shopkeepers, noted that the cloth is frequently replaced by unidentified individuals whenever it is damaged or removed by the elements. A local food service worker reported witnessing a group of three or four unidentified men covering the monument late at night this past Saturday.
The incident has drawn sharp criticism from "Chobbisher Uttara," a professional organization of parents and activists. Monisha Mafruha, a member of the group, alleged on social media that upon inspecting the site, members discovered that at least four of the ten female busts had been removed entirely. She emphasized that the monument was intended to serve as a vital historical site and a hub for cultural engagement to honor the role of women in the 2024 uprising.
The organization has since filed a formal complaint with the administrator of the Dhaka North City Corporation (DNCC), demanding a transparent investigation into the removal of the sculptures and calling for their immediate restoration. They have also urged authorities to secure the site and proceed with a formal inauguration of the monument, which was originally scheduled for December 18 but was indefinitely delayed due to rising tensions.
Former DNCC administrator Mohammad Ejaz, under whose tenure the monument was constructed, confirmed that the project was initiated following a proposal from the local community. He acknowledged that the construction process had faced significant threats from extremist factions who opposed the depiction of the female figures.
While officials from the DNCC's Region-6 office could not be reached for comment, current DNCC administrator Shafiqul Islam Khan confirmed that he is aware of the situation. He stated that he has directed the relevant regional authorities to conduct an investigation and submit a report, promising that appropriate action will be taken once the findings are reviewed.
