Covering of Liberation War mural in Lalmonirhat sparks criticism
Hatibandha, (Lalmonirhat) Correspondent
A historic mural depicting the Liberation War at the district’s memorial site was covered with cloth on March 26, sparking protests and criticism in Lalmonirhat.
Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB) and the Conscious Citizens Committee (Sanaak) strongly condemned the act, calling it disrespectful to the spirit of the Liberation War.
On December 16 last year, the same mural was also covered during Victory Day celebrations. The artwork highlights key events like the Language Movement, Bangabandhu's speech, Mujibnagar government formation, genocide, and the Pakistani army's surrender.
Protesters, including veterans and cultural activists, stated that hiding the mural disrespects the sacrifices of freedom fighters and undermines national values. Local administration claimed the covering was temporary due to objections from some locals and alignment issues with the July Revolution spirit but did not clarify further.
The incident has sparked widespread debate on social media, with calls to uncover the mural immediately and preserve the memory of the Liberation War without political bias. Many argue such murals symbolize historical truth and should remain untouched.
