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Published : 20 Jul 2026, 11:49 PM
Going to school, attending classes and returning home at a set time was once the daily routine of 10-year-old Abidur Rahim Abid.
That routine was shattered by a sudden tragedy that left lasting scars on both his body and mind.
The Milestone School and College student from Uttara spent six months in hospital, enduring severe burn injuries. He underwent 36 major and minor surgeries and received 18 bags of blood.
His limbs and face still bear the scars of the tragedy, in which 36 people, including 28 students of the school, lost their lives.
A year has passed since the incident, and Abid is yet to return to the classroom.
His teachers provide learning materials online, while a tutor visits his home to continue his lessons.
Abid said, “When I went to school, I used to study, and I had a daily routine. Now there is no such routine. I do a little exercise and spend my time doing nothing significant.”
The child broke down in tears while speaking to bdnews24.com. He still vividly remembers the moments when the aircraft crashed into his school.
For a few days after the crash, even the sound of nearby aeroplanes would frighten him. That fear has since subsided, but he still requires regular follow-up treatment.
His family remains unsure when that treatment will end.
On Jul 21, 2025, a fighter jet of Bangladesh Air Force crashed into Milestone School and College in Dhaka's Diabari.
The crash claimed the lives of 36, including teachers, students, staff members and the school's director, while more than 150 others were injured.
Recalling the incident, Abid said: “While eating tiffin in the afternoon, there was a loud noise, and the surroundings became dark. I saw everyone moving towards the back. The crash happened right then.”
Abid's father Md Abul Kalam Azad said, “When Abid returned home after six months, our real struggle began.
“Therapy was free for two or four months from the government or the school at different places. But while he was in hospital with his injuries, that free period passed quickly.
“When he actually needed therapy, I could not get the free facilities at CRP or other centres in Uttara. As a result, he had to receive therapy at home, and we spent tens of thousands of taka.”
Even a year later, Abid's left hand remains immobile. He is unable to make a fist.
Although the government offered the family Tk 500,000 in compensation after the accident, they declined to accept it.
Azad said, “We demand from the government, along with treatment, an assurance of future employment and rehabilitation. We also want a government health card to cover lifelong treatment.
“The government should arrange rehabilitation for each of them according to their qualifications. There is no way for the school, the Air Force and the government to avoid responsibility in this incident.”
