Rajshahi, Feb 21 (V7N) – Veteran language activist Mosharraf Hossain Akhunji has called for official recognition of the first Shaheed Minar built at the Muslim Students' Hostel of Rajshahi College. Akhunji made the demand during a special event on February 20, held at the office of the Rajshahi College Reporters' Union (RCRU), where a wall magazine titled "Reflection of the 21st February in the Pen of Truth" was unveiled. The wall magazine was released in observance of International Mother Language Day and the Martyrs' Day.

Akhunji recounted how the first Shaheed Memorial Monument in Bangladesh was constructed in Rajshahi. He explained that he and a few other students had built this monument to commemorate the language martyrs at the Rajshahi College Muslim Hostel. He recalled that a worker from Dhaka, who was traveling by train, informed them about police firing on the students' procession in Dhaka, where several martyrs, including Rafiq, Salam, and Barkat, were killed. As a result, the students in Rajshahi decided to build a monument to honor the martyrs. However, shortly after its completion, the Pakistani authorities destroyed it.

Highlighting the significance of the language movement, Akhunji stated that during the time of the Muslim League government, Bengalis were treated as second-class citizens. He pointed out that the seeds of independence were sown during the 1952 language movement. Despite gaining independence, Akhunji added, Bangladesh did not experience true freedom, but rather encountered authoritarian regimes that suppressed freedom of speech. He urged the youth to fight for true independence and economic self-sufficiency while valuing their mother tongue, Bengali, and mastering English to maintain global competitiveness.

At the event, Akhunji strongly demanded official recognition of the first Shaheed Minar built at Rajshahi College's Muslim Hostel, advocating for state acknowledgment of its historical importance. He also called on the people of Rajshahi and the students and faculty of Rajshahi College to join together in this cause.

In his opening remarks, Professor Mo. Jahur Ali, Principal of Rajshahi College, emphasized that the sacrifice for language is an essential and proud part of the Bengali nation's heritage. He stressed that the 21st of February is not just a day but a constant reminder, and respecting it is a true tribute to the language martyrs. The efforts of RCRU were commended for enriching the knowledge and thinking of the new generation.

The event, chaired by RCRU President Abu Saeed Roni, also featured several distinguished guests, including Vice-Principal Dr. Mo. Ibrahim Ali, RCRU's advisor Dr. Mo. Syed Ali Ahsan, and freedom fighter and information collector Walior Rahman Babu.

Following the ceremony, Akhunji presented autographed prizes to the top three students who contributed to the wall magazine.

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