July 2024 Police Killings Re-investigated, says Mirza Fakhrul

In a definitive move towards judicial transparency, the newly appointed Minister for Local Government, Rural Development, and Cooperatives, Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, has confirmed that the administration will facilitate a fresh inquiry into the deaths of police officers during the July 2024 mass uprising.

The Minister, who also serves as the Secretary General of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), addressed members of the press on Friday following the inauguration of a new four-storey residential block at the Hajipara Hafezia Madrasa, Orphanage, and Lillah Boarding in Thakurgaon. His remarks come during a significant period of national transition, as the new government, formed on 17 February 2026, seeks to address the lingering legal questions of the revolution.

Judicial Accountability and Re-investigation

Regarding the sensitive issue of law enforcement casualties during the 2024 protests, Mr Fakhrul affirmed that the stance recently articulated by the Home Minister is the correct and official position of the state. He noted that while preliminary investigations were conducted under the previous regime, the current administration is committed to a more thorough and unbiased adjudication.

“The Home Minister’s statement on the re-investigation and subsequent trial of police killings during the July uprising is accurate,” the Minister remarked. “Since investigations have already taken place, we will initiate a re-investigation if it is deemed necessary to ensure absolute justice. As the matter is currently sub judice, I have no further comments to add at this time.”

When asked to respond to assertions from certain political quarters, including NCP leaders, that the matter was already “settled” and that the government was overreaching, Mr Fakhrul replied pointedly, “You should direct those questions to the NCP.”

Restoring Democratic Norms

Minister Fakhrul also provided vital updates on the restoration of civil processes and the strengthening of democratic institutions. He assured the public that the government is working diligently to stabilise the country and return power to the people through transparent mechanisms.

A Ministerial Homecoming

This visit marked Mr Fakhrul’s first official tour of his constituency since assuming his ministerial portfolio following the 13th National Parliamentary Elections. Arriving via road from Saidpur, he was greeted with a vibrant reception at his residence in the Kalibari area.

Addressing the people of Thakurgaon, he expressed profound personal gratitude. “I am eternally indebted to the people of this district. Your unwavering support allowed us to reach this victory and grants me the opportunity to serve you. I urge everyone to remain united as we work toward a more beautiful and prosperous future.”

The Minister concluded his day as the chief guest at an Iftar Mahfil organised by the development agency ESDO in Gobindanagar—an organisation for which he served as the founding chairman. Senior district officials, including the Additional District Magistrate and the Superintendent of Police, accompanied the Minister throughout the proceedings.