HM Sagar, Savar (Dhaka)

Shaon Sarkar was a front-line fighter of the July student uprising. When the streets of Savar were in turmoil during the student movement, and police brutality was bleeding the protesters, Yar Mohammad Yasin Sarkar Shaon became one of the forces of resistance. He stood by the students, arranged food and shelter.

When the Awami League government's allies were carrying out the killings, he came forward with the students. He provided toothpaste and masks to save them from the police's tear gas shells, and gave more than 20,000 marbles from the slingshot to build resistance.

At that time, the streets of Savar were a battlefield. The students' resistance was indomitable. He led and organized them while staying with the protesters. He took the injured to the hospital. He found the missing. He even sheltered many workers in his own home and the homes of his relatives. Shaon conducts party activities using his own money. He never chases after black money. He never condones injustice. As a leader, he is not blinded by the lust for power. Rather, his only desire is to make a place in the hearts of the people.

Because of his concentration and honest politics, today he is the inspiration of the youth, the apple of the eye of the youth. Leadership is not just the bravery of power but a path manifested in the glory of sacrifice. And Shaon is steadfast on that path.

Habib, a student activist from Savar, said, “We saw how Shaon Bhai helped the protesters. He gave shelter and food to many.” Yasin Mondal, a student activist, said, “We did not know how to resist that day. Shaon Bhai brought us slingshots and marbles. He did not leave us alone for a moment. He not only gave us direction, but he himself was with us in the field.” A Jubo Dal activist said, “We have seen many leaders in politics, but very few people have the mentality of standing by the people selflessly like Shaon Bhai. He not only leads us, but also protects us like a guardian.” A young student leader from Savar said, “When we protested, we were attacked by the police, many fled. But Shaon Bhai was still on the streets. He protected us, provided us with food and medical treatment.”

Shaon Sarkar believes that to change this country, well-educated, idealistic leadership is needed. BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman’s 31-point plan must be implemented to build a new Bangladesh.

Shaon Sarkar said, “One day this country will truly be illuminated by the light of democracy, Shaheed Zia’s dream will be realized, and Khaleda Zia will return to the people.”