CUMILLA, July 11, (V7N) – LGRD Adviser Asif Mahmud Shojib Bhuyain today declared July 11 as the "First Day of Resistance" of the 2024 mass uprising, commemorating a pivotal moment in the nationwide movement. He emphasized that the initial act of defiance and the first shedding of blood occurred at Cumilla University on this date last year, when police under the then-fascist regime launched an unprovoked and brutal attack on students.

The Adviser recounted how the students of Cumilla University, in the face of this aggression, mounted a fierce resistance. They effectively blockaded the critical Dhaka-Chattogram highway, holding their ground until 11 PM that night. This impactful display of student resolve, according to Asif Mahmud, played a significant role in igniting and fueling the subsequent nationwide protests that ultimately led to a change in government. His announcement was made this afternoon during a memorial meeting held at Cumilla University, marking the anniversary of the police attack.

Asif Mahmud Shojib Bhuyain expressed his hope that, mirroring their actions in July 2024, the students of Cumilla University would consistently champion truth and justice. In a gesture of support and in response to student demands, he also announced the donation of three buses for the university, acknowledging the institution's crucial role in the historic events.

The memorial meeting was presided over by the university’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor Dr. Haidar Ali, with Pro-Vice Chancellor Professor Dr. Masuda Kamal attending as a special guest. Other distinguished attendees included Treasurer Professor Dr. Mohammad Solaiman, Proctor Professor Dr. Abdul Hakim, Cumilla Deputy Commissioner Amirul Kaisar, and Superintendent of Police Najir Ahmed Khan, all of whom recognized the significance of the day's commemoration.

The Adviser reiterated that the police assault on protesters during the “Bangla Blockade” program at Cumilla University on July 11, 2024, was indeed the first such incident in the mass uprising. This brutal crackdown saw approximately 20 students injured as police resorted to firing, tear gas, and baton charges against the demonstrators. News of this attack spread rapidly, igniting widespread anger among students and triggering a wave of protests across the country, including in Dhaka, where the police brutality was condemned.

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