Six Accused Over July Movement Disrespect Allegations

A formal complaint has been lodged at Ishwarganj University Police Station in Kushtia district against six individuals over alleged derogatory remarks and disrespect towards the July Movement and its commemorative symbols.

The complaint claims that the accused publicly made offensive comments about the movement and circulated misleading statements across social media platforms, sparking concern among sections of the public.

Those named in the complaint are actress Meher Afroz Shaon, film actress Mahia Mahi, journalist Anis Alomgir, Shanta Farzana, Soma Islam and Momin Mehedi.

The complaint was submitted on Sunday afternoon by SM Sweet, a central member of the National Citizens Party. According to the statement, the July Movement reportedly resulted in significant casualties and injuries, with the complainant citing around 1,400 deaths and more than 30,000 people injured. The movement is described in the complaint as a sensitive and important chapter in the country’s recent history.

It is further alleged that several individuals have recently used various online platforms to make disparaging remarks about the movement, its symbols and those associated with it. The complaint specifically accuses Shanta Farzana of throwing shoes at a July memorial monument. Meher Afroz Shaon is alleged to have referred to the movement as a “planned incident” in her social media commentary, which the complainant claims was disrespectful.

Journalist Anis Alomgir, Soma Islam and Momin Mehedi are also accused of making critical and controversial remarks regarding the movement, which the complainant argues have contributed to public misunderstanding and resentment.

SM Sweet stated that recent incidents involving derogatory statements and alleged disrespect towards memorial sites have caused widespread anger among those who view the movement as a defining and painful episode in recent history. He urged authorities to conduct a thorough investigation and take legal action against those responsible.

He also called for swift measures against individuals who, in his view, are distorting the narrative of the movement or spreading misleading interpretations about it.

Officer-in-Charge Masud Rana of Ishwarganj University Police Station confirmed that a written complaint involving six individuals has been received. He said the matter is being treated seriously and a preliminary inquiry will be conducted. Further legal action, he added, will depend on the outcome of the investigation.

The incident has generated discussion both locally and on social media. While some observers frame the matter in terms of freedom of expression, others view the alleged remarks and actions as disrespectful to a sensitive historical movement and its memory. Police have indicated that the facts will be verified through investigation before any final steps are taken.