Families of ‘July Martyrs’ Demand Resignation of Legal Adviser Asif Nazrul

Families of the July martyrs and those injured in the 2024 protests staged a demonstration in front of the Secretariat on Tuesday (19 August), demanding the resignation of Interim Government Legal Adviser Dr. Asif Nazrul.

The protest began at 11:30 am outside the National Press Club, after which participants formed a procession and gathered at the No. 2 gate of the Secretariat around 12:30 pm, blocking traffic on the adjacent road.

The demonstrators accused authorities of granting bail to those responsible for the July killings in exchange for money, and called for:

• The immediate resignation of Dr. Asif Nazrul
• Removal of culpable officials from the judiciary

Aminul Islam, one of the injured, warned, “If we are forced to take to the streets again, the consequences will not be pleasant. We fear no one; the government should remember this.”

Abdul Matin, father of martyr Sheikh Shahriar, expressed frustration:
“For a year we have been knocking door to door for justice. Even under the Ministry of Law, we are being mocked.”

Abul Hasan, father of martyr Shahriar Hasan Alvi, added:
“This government came to power on the blood of thousands of martyrs. Yet, a year after the July massacre, we are forced onto the streets again. The legal adviser has only offered consolations multiple times.”

Police reportedly tried to prevent the procession from advancing towards the Secretariat, leading to scuffles. Protesters alleged that officers kicked and verbally abused them.

Ramna Division DC Masud Alam commented: “We will forward the demands of the July martyr families and the injured to the relevant authorities. However, the road blockade is causing inconvenience to the general public.”

Regarding allegations of police brutality, he said: “If any such incidents occurred, necessary measures will be taken following investigation.”

The protest highlights ongoing grievances over the delayed justice for the July 2024 massacre, as families and victims continue to pressure the government and legal authorities for accountability.