The government has issued the "Welfare and Rehabilitation Ordinance for the Families of Martyrs and Fighters of the July Mass Uprising, 2025" aimed at supporting those affected by the historic movement.
The ordinance, promulgated on Tuesday (June 17), introduces legal measures to prevent fraudulent claims for benefits associated with the uprising.
According to the ordinance, any individual who deliberately provides false information, conceals facts, or submits misleading documents to falsely claim to be a family member of a martyr or an injured participant of the July uprising will be committing a punishable offense.
The maximum penalty for such actions includes up to two years of imprisonment, a fine of up to BDT 200,000, or a financial penalty equivalent to double the benefits wrongfully claimed. The offenses under this ordinance are classified as non-cognizable and bailable.
The ordinance categorizes the victims of the uprising into two main groups: "Martyrs of the Mass Uprising" and the injured.
Those injured are further divided into three categories: critically injured, seriously injured, and injured.
The ordinance also formally establishes the "July Mass Uprising Department," detailing its structure, functions, and staffing.
It provides a legal foundation for various government initiatives already in place for the welfare and rehabilitation of the families of martyrs and injured participants.
In addition, the law outlines that individuals who are legally recognized as family members of martyrs or injured fighters will be entitled to both one-time and monthly financial assistance at specified rates. Provisions for their rehabilitation will also be governed by this ordinance.
For the investigation, prosecution, trial, and appeal processes related to offenses under this ordinance, the procedures stipulated in the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1898, will apply.
