BNP to Create New Division at Liberation War Affairs Ministry for July Fighters if Elected: Tarique Rahman

Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman has said that if his party comes to power, a new division will be established under the Ministry of Liberation War Affairs to support the families of those killed and injured in the July movement.

Rahman made the remarks on Sunday (January 18) after holding private discussions with several victims and their family members at a program held at the Krishibid Institution Bangladesh in the capital. He assured the affected families of continued support and recognition for what he described as the sacrifices of the “July fighters.”

He said the proposed division would operate under the existing Ministry of Liberation War Affairs and would be dedicated to the welfare, rehabilitation, and long-term support of families of those who were killed or injured during the July events. According to Rahman, the initiative aims to institutionalize state responsibility toward these victims in a structured and sustainable way.

Recalling BNP’s previous tenure in government, Rahman noted that the party had earlier established the Ministry of Liberation War Affairs to look after the families of those who were martyred or injured during the 1971 Liberation War. He said the same principle of state recognition and care would guide the creation of the new division for July victims.

Rahman emphasized that honoring sacrifice is not limited to rhetoric and must be reflected through formal state mechanisms. He added that BNP believes justice, dignity, and long-term welfare for victims and their families are essential components of democratic governance in Bangladesh.

The announcement comes amid broader political discussions on accountability, recognition of political violence victims, and the future structure of state welfare mechanisms should there be a change in government.