Dear readers, greetings. I am Moynul Islam Shah, bringing you this blog on the causes and consequences of the July Mass Uprising in Bangladesh in 2024.
We will explore what the July Uprising was, why it happened, a paragraph on the quota reform movement, the significance and impact of the July Revolution, and a detailed look at the history of the Quota Reform Movement and the July Revolution of 2024.
Written by- Moynul Islam Shah
What Was the July Uprising 2024?
The “July Revolution” or “July Uprising” or “Student–Public Uprising” in Bangladesh refers to a mass movement by students and citizens during July–August 2024, demanding the resignation of the ruling Awami League government under a one-point demand. The quota reform movement of 2024 came under severe suppression by the government, transforming into a widespread public uprising led by students. This ultimately led to the disgraceful fall of the Awami League-led government under Sheikh Hasina.
(Moynul Islam Shah)
Background of the July Revolution (Quota Reform Movement)
The Quota Reform Movement began in 2018, primarily demanding the abolition of 55% quotas in government jobs. Although the government initially issued a notification to cancel the quotas, in 2021, a group of children of freedom fighters appealed against this order in the High Court.
On June 5, 2024, the High Court Division of the Bangladesh Supreme Court declared the government’s 2018 notification on quota abolition illegal. This sparked the revival of the Quota Reform Movement. Protesters alleged that the government was attempting to reinstate quotas by interfering in the judiciary.
As the Sheikh Hasina-led government began suppressing the movement, it turned into a non-cooperation movement. Under growing pressure from this mass uprising, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resigned and fled to Delhi, India. Bangladesh subsequently faced a constitutional crisis. Days later, Nobel Laureate Dr. Muhammad Yunus was appointed Chief Advisor of an interim government.
[Essay on July Revolution 2024]
How Did the Quota Movement Turn Into an Anti-Government Uprising?
Initially focused on quota reform, the movement escalated due to the government’s repressive actions. Students faced arrest, torture, and violent attacks from police and members of the ruling party’s student wing, Chhatra League. Videos and images of the brutality went viral on social media, garnering nationwide support.
At first, the movement was limited to rallies and protests. But on July 14, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina referred to the protesters as “descendants of collaborators (Razakars).” That night, students erupted in massive protests in response to her comment.
Slogans like “Who are you? Who am I? Razakar, Razakar!” and “We asked for rights; now we’re called Razakars” and “This country, paid for with the blood of martyrs, doesn’t belong to anyone’s father!” echoed across Dhaka University and other campuses nationwide.
On July 15, Awami League officials accused the student protesters of tarnishing the spirit of the Liberation War. The same day, Chhatra League and police carried out violent attacks with weapons, sticks, and rubber bullets. These attacks intensified the movement, especially after the police shot and killed Abu Sayeed, a student at Begum Rokeya University, on July 16.
The Government’s Role During the July Revolution
Initially, the government attempted to show sensitivity toward the movement. However, it soon adopted a policy of suppression. It failed to engage in meaningful dialogue and instead allowed pro-government student groups to attack protesters. As public resentment grew, the movement gained more momentum, and the government lost further credibility.
Role of Coordinators in the Uprising
Coordinators of the Quota Movement played a vital role in organizing and leading the protests. Their unity and leadership were key in building solidarity among students. When the government began secretly arresting these coordinators, the movement only intensified.
Prominent coordinators included Nahid Islam, Sarjis Alam, Hasnat Abdullah, Asif Mahmud, Md. Mahin Sarkar, and Abdul Kader. Notably, Nahid Islam and Asif Mahmud later became advisors in several ministries under the interim government.
See full list of coordinators
Timeline of the July Uprising (July 16 – August 5)
- July 16: The movement intensified following the death of Abu Sayeed.
- July 29: Police launched brutal attacks across Dhaka, further angering students.
- Schools and universities were shut down, and the internet was nearly cut off nationwide.
- Police began mass arrests, and daily casualties mounted.
- Over 1,500 people — including students, pedestrians, children — were killed.
- Incidents of arson and guerrilla-style attacks spread as government control weakened.
- Regional coordinators led local protests as the movement grew uncontrollable.
August 5: The Fall of the Government
On August 5, the government collapsed under the pressure of the student–public uprising. Tens of thousands marched toward the Prime Minister’s residence, Ganabhaban. Sheikh Hasina submitted her resignation to the President and fled to India via military helicopter. The Parliament became inactive, and top Awami League leaders were later accused of crimes against humanity.
[Paragraph on July Uprising 2024]
Martyrs of the July Revolution: Names and Short Bios
The sacrifices of the martyrs of this uprising are worthy of eternal remembrance. They include everyday students who laid down their lives for the restoration of democracy.
Some notable martyrs:
- Abu Sayeed (22) — English Department, Begum Rokeya University; local movement coordinator.
- Md. Faruk — Furniture store worker.
- Wasim Akram — Student at Chittagong College; Joint Convenor, Chhatra Dal.
- Faisal Ahmed Shanto (24) — Student at Omar Gani MES College.
- Mir Mahfuzur Rahman Mugdha — Student at Bangladesh University of Professionals (BUP).
- Tahir Zaman Priyo — Journalist.
- Ridwan Sharif Riyad — 1st-year English student, Tongi Govt. College.
- Sheikh Fahmin Jafar (18) — HSC science student, Tongi Govt. College.
- Md. Shahjahan (25) — Street vendor in New Market area.
- Siam (18) — Battery shop worker in Gulistan.
Click here for the full list of martyrs.
Roles of Police and Chhatra League in the July Uprising
The police played a key role in suppressing the protesters — shooting, burning, and disposing of bodies, along with mass arrests. This deeply questioned the neutrality of the law enforcement agency.
Chhatra League, instead of protecting student interests, aligned with the government and attacked fellow students. Their actions contributed to growing public distrust toward the ruling party.
Role of the Military in the July Uprising
During the July Revolution, the military largely maintained a neutral stance. Although the armed forces did not directly participate in the anti-government movement, they maintained a firm position to uphold peace and stability. As the public movement intensified due to police mismanagement, the military stepped in to monitor the situation and ensure security. This intervention halted police brutality and allowed the movement to proceed peacefully. By not siding with the government, the military’s neutrality proved supportive to the protestors.
Following the revolution, the military played a responsible role in forming and running the interim government. From August 5 onwards, the police went on a work stoppage citing security concerns. In this context, the military provided uninterrupted security to police stations and the general public across the country.
Role of BGB in the July Uprising
The Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) remained neutral during the movement. However, in the aftermath of the student-led July uprising, BGB took on significant responsibilities. For example, BGB provided medical care to numerous injured students and civilians in hospitals. It ensured the safety of minorities across the country and helped keep border-area police stations operational. BGB also assisted in traffic control and managed protests by garment workers. Notably, before August 5, BGB detained nearly fifty controversial figures from the previous government who attempted to flee the country and handed them over to law enforcement. Overall, in the post-revolution period of unstable law and order, BGB safeguarded several key state offices and installations.
Formation of the Interim Government (Result of the July Uprising)
After Sheikh Hasina’s departure from the country, an interim government was formed to restore peace and stability in Bangladesh. The aim of this government was to reestablish democratic processes and demonstrate accountability to the people. On August 8, Nobel Laureate Muhammad Yunus was sworn in as Chief Adviser to lead the interim government. Following the dissolution of parliament on August 6, President Mohammed Shahabuddin announced that the interim government would oversee state affairs until the 13th National Parliamentary Election was held.
See list of the Chief Adviser and Advisers.
Reforms by the Interim Government
The newly formed interim government introduced reformative programs across all sectors of the country. Restrictions on media were lifted, steps were taken to ensure administrative transparency, and judicial reforms were initiated. Trials for the July massacre began, and work continues to establish human and civil rights. Efforts were made to improve the political climate and reinvigorate democratic values within political parties. The government also continues to work towards transparency and accountability in governance. Reforms in education, health, and law are being carried out through the formation of specialized reform commissions.
Importance of the July Revolution or Uprising
The July Revolution of 2024 brought about a significant transformation in the political history of Bangladesh. Led predominantly by the youth, the revolution demanded the establishment of a democratic framework and unified the nation against longstanding political inconsistencies. The fall of Sheikh Hasina’s government and the subsequent formation of an interim administration became a notable example of people’s empowerment. This movement symbolizes a new path of political reform in Bangladesh—promising justice, transparency, and the reestablishment of democracy. (—Moynul Islam Shah)
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Conclusion
In conclusion, the July Revolution of 2024 marked a historical shift in the political landscape of Bangladesh. It exposed the flaws in the political system and paved the way for restoring democratic structures through increased awareness and participation by the youth. This revolution has set a precedent for safeguarding the rights of the people and will serve as a source of inspiration for future generations. The interim government and the new governing structure may well serve as a foundation for political stability and development in the country.
[Keywords: July Revolution Causes and Outcomes 2024, Importance of the July Revolution, Impacts of the July Revolution, History of the Quota Reform Movement or July Revolution 2024]
📌 (FAQs)
1. What is the July Uprising 2024 in Bangladesh?
The July Uprising refers to the mass anti-government movement in Bangladesh in 2024 that led to the resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and the formation of an interim government.
2. What role did the military play in the July Revolution?
The military remained neutral during the uprising, intervening only to ensure peace and stability by halting police brutality and allowing the protests to continue peacefully.
3. Did the military support the protestors?
No, the military did not directly support protestors or the government. They maintained a balanced and observant role, which benefited the movement.
4. Why did the military intervene during the protests?
The military intervened due to severe police mismanagement and to prevent further violence, acting as a stabilizing force.
5. How did the military respond after the uprising?
Post-uprising, the military helped maintain law and order and assisted in forming the interim government.
6. What was BGB’s role during the July Uprising?
BGB remained neutral during the movement but played a significant role afterward in medical aid, maintaining border security, and arresting fleeing political figures.
📌 (FAQs)
7. Did BGB arrest any government officials after the uprising?
Yes, BGB apprehended around fifty controversial figures from the former regime who attempted to flee the country.
8. How did BGB assist protest victims?
BGB provided medical treatment to injured students and citizens at hospitals and ensured minority protection nationwide.
9. What led to the formation of an interim government?
The interim government was formed after Sheikh Hasina left the country and the parliament was dissolved, aiming to restore democracy and stability.
10. Who is the head of the interim government formed after the July Uprising?
Nobel laureate Dr. Muhammad Yunus was appointed as Chief Adviser of the interim government on August 8, 2024.
11. What is the goal of the interim government?
Its primary goal is to restore democratic institutions, hold fair elections, and ensure transparency and accountability.
12. When will the next national election be held?
The next national election will be held after the interim government’s reform activities are completed, as declared by the President.
13. What reforms has the interim government initiated?
Reforms include media freedom, administrative transparency, judicial restructuring, and trials for the July massacre.
14. Is the July Uprising linked to the Quota Reform Movement?
Yes, the July Uprising is seen as an extension of long-standing student movements, including the Quota Reform Movement.
📌 (FAQs)
15. How did police respond to the protests?
Initially, police repression escalated tensions. Eventually, they withdrew, citing security concerns.
16. How did people react to the military’s neutral role?
The military’s neutral role was widely praised as it allowed the uprising to proceed peacefully and safeguarded the public.
17. Why is the July Uprising historically significant?
It marked the end of a long-standing government, initiated democratic reforms, and empowered youth-led activism in Bangladesh.
18. Was there violence during the July Uprising?
Yes, but large-scale violence was reduced after military intervention. However, incidents of police brutality and injuries occurred.
19. What is the long-term impact of the July Uprising?
The uprising initiated political reforms, highlighted public discontent, and paved the way for a new democratic order.
20. Will the interim government become permanent?
No, it is a temporary body tasked with overseeing reforms and organizing elections for a democratically elected government.