The government of Bangladesh has officially declared August 5 a public holiday to commemorate "July Uprising Day," marking the fall of the former Awami League government following a mass student-led movement.
The Cabinet Division issued a formal gazette and circular on Wednesday announcing the decision.
According to the circular, August 5 will now be observed annually as “July Uprising Day” and has been added to the ‘Category A’ list of national and international commemorative days maintained by the Cabinet Division.
All relevant ministries, departments, and government agencies have been requested to observe the day with appropriate respect and significance.
The July Uprising refers to the popular movement led by students and citizens that culminated in a significant political change.
The declaration of the public holiday is seen as formal recognition of the historical importance of that movement.
Additionally, the government has designated July 16 as “July Martyrs’ Day” to honor those who lost their lives during the uprising.
This observance has been included under the ‘Category B’ commemorative days. Ministries and agencies have been directed to ensure proper observance of the day every year.
In a separate decision, the government announced that the “New Bangladesh Day,” previously declared for August 8 by the Advisory Council, will no longer be observed.
The recent proclamations signify the government`s effort to institutionalize remembrance of the events surrounding the July movement and to emphasize the values of democracy, sacrifice, and civic participation.
