Freedom fighters fume as administration covers Bangabandhu’s inscription in Jashore

The administration has dismissed the allegations, claiming the measures were necessary for the monument's renovation

Freedom fighters in Jashore have expressed grievances over what they say is the district administration’s indifference toward Independence Day, citing the neglected state of the district's Victory Monument and the deliberate covering of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’s name with cloth.

The controversy unfolded Thursday morning at the Monihar terminal’s Victory Monument during the wreath-laying ceremony to honour the martyrs of the 1971 Liberation War.

Witnesses observed that the lower portion of the monument was wrapped in deep green cloth.

Only the top line of the inscription, "In memory of the heroic martyrs who sacrificed their lives in the great struggle for independence...", remained visible.

Local freedom fighters pointed out that the covered section contains the dedication that the foundation stone was laid by Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman in 1972.

"History cannot be hidden with a piece of cloth," said Mazharul Islam Montu, former commander of the District Muktijoddha Command.

"This is nothing but filthiness. Some of us even boycotted the venue in anticipation of such an act."

While the ceremony began with a 31-gun salute and floral tributes from Deputy Commissioner Ashek Hasan, the faded, unpainted state of the monument drew sharp criticism.

Harun-or-Rashid, former president of the Jashore Sammilita Sangskritik Jote, called the situation unprecedented.

"Every year, the municipality keeps the monument clean under the supervision of the district administration. This year, we had to pay our respects at a dirty, discoloured site," he said.

"It seems intentional to hide the name of Bangabandhu. Those responsible should be punished," he added.

Abdul Malek, convenor of the District Muktijoddha Command, said: "The administration clearly does not hold the spirit of the Liberation War. I went there with my eyes closed and left the same way."

When questioned about the faded appearance and the shrouded inscription, Ashek offered an explanation.

"The Victory Monument is due for renovation, which is why nothing was done [to paint it] yet," he told reporters.

He also defended the covering of the name as a step required to start renovating the monument.