Summary:
- Three organizations will provide scholarships to 100 students injured during anti-discrimination protests in Bangladesh.
- Initially, 30 students will receive BDT 5,000 monthly until completing their education, with plans to support 70 more later.
- Free medical treatment for injured students will be provided by the Bangladesh Physical Therapy Association (BPA).
- Families of deceased victims expressed grief and frustration over the lack of justice for their children.
In a significant gesture of support, three organizations—Santan O Abhibhabak Forum (SOF), Bangladesh Physical Therapy Association (BPA), and Quality Life Foundation (QLF)—have announced a joint initiative to provide scholarships to 100 students injured during recent anti-discrimination protests in Bangladesh. The announcement was made during a program held at the National Press Club’s Zahur Hossain Chowdhury Hall on Friday morning.
The scholarships aim to alleviate the financial and educational uncertainties faced by these students, many of whom sustained severe injuries, including amputations and vision loss, as a result of gunfire during the demonstrations. These injuries have left them grappling with both physical disabilities and disrupted academic or professional aspirations.
As part of the initiative, 30 students will initially receive a monthly stipend of BDT 5,000 until they complete their education, with plans to extend similar support to an additional 70 students in subsequent phases. Furthermore, the BPA has pledged to provide free medical treatment for the injured individuals.
Shahidul Islam Bhuiyan, the father of Farhan Faiyaz—a student who tragically lost his life during the protests—spoke emotionally at the event. “Every 18th of the month brings back unbearable pain,” he said, noting that Saturday marks six months since his son’s death. Similarly, Safat Siddiqui, the mother of another victim, Ahnaf, expressed frustration over the lack of accountability for those responsible for her son’s killing. She recounted a conversation with a legal adviser who dismissed her concerns by stating that such matters fall under the purview of other officials.
The event was presided over by poet Mohan Raihan, convenor of the National Poetry Council. Other speakers included BPA General Secretary Farid Uddin, Trust Bank Vice President Tahmina Akhter, anti-discrimination movement coordinator Mohona Akhter, and SOF coordinators Dr. Dalidur Rahman and Dr. Ishrat Jahan.
This initiative highlights an urgent need for systemic reforms to protect students’ rights and ensure justice for victims of violence. By addressing both immediate needs through scholarships and long-term rehabilitation support, it offers a glimmer of hope for those whose lives have been irrevocably altered by these events.
Source: Samakal
