National Consensus Commission Revises Fifth Clause of July Charter Amid Widespread Anger

PNN News Desk | Dhaka:
The National Consensus Commission has revised the fifth clause of the July National Charter, which had sparked widespread anger and protests in the area. On Friday (October 17) at around 2:00 PM, the Commission released the revised clause.

Previously, the clause stated:
"We will ensure justice for individuals who were subjected to enforced disappearance, murder, and torture during the 16 years of pro-democracy struggle against fascism before the mass uprising, and for all killings that occurred during the July–August 2024 mass uprising, provide state recognition to martyrs, support to martyr families, and proper treatment and rehabilitation for the injured."

In the newly revised clause, it reads:
"We will ensure justice for individuals who were subjected to enforced disappearance, murder, and torture during the 16-year anti-fascist pro-democracy struggle prior to the mass uprising in Bangladesh, and for all killings committed by certain members of the fascist Awami League and its allied law enforcement agencies during the July–August 2024 mass uprising. State recognition will be provided to martyrs, their families, and appropriate support—including monthly allowances, medical treatment, rehabilitation—for injured July War Heroes. Legal immunity, protection of fundamental rights, and security will also be ensured for martyr families and injured July War Heroes."

A local segment identified as “July Martyr Families and Injured Heroes” had previously demanded that the clause be more explicit and detailed to fully meet their demands. On Thursday night, protesters representing the ‘July Heroes’ gathered at the South Plaza of the National Parliament to submit their demands, which later escalated into clashes with the police. During the clashes, several vehicles were damaged and bricks were thrown.

Meanwhile, Salahuddin Ahmed, a member of BNP’s Standing Committee, stated on his verified Facebook page that the clause should be revised, and he believes that what occurred during the 2024 mass uprising should have been addressed on the battlefield of the uprising itself.

Professor Ali Riaz, Vice-Chairman of the National Consensus Commission, said: “In respect of the demands of the July War Heroes, this revision has been made through discussions between political parties and the Commission.” He further added that the revised clause will be clearly presented to the government for implementation.

Commission members, including Justice Md. Emdadul Haque, Iftikharuzzaman, Badiul Alam Majumdar, Md. Ayub Mia, and Chief Advisor Monir Haider, were also present during the announcement.

Analysts note that while the event has created political tension, the revision prior to the signing of the charter has somewhat reflected the demands of the July Heroes.