Rekha Begum arrived at Manik Mia Avenue earlier around 7:00am, accompanied by her 12-year-old son, Sulaiman.
Sulaiman was wearing an Ilizarov frame – a device used to hold bones in place.
He suffered a broken leg during the July uprising.
"The person who is responsible for my son losing his leg has now been in exile for one year. There is pain, but there is also relief that the dictator Hasina is no longer in the country. I have come to celebrate this relief," a stoic Rekha told Stream.
Tuesday (August 5) marks the "July Mass Uprising Day."
To commemorate the day, the cultural affairs ministry has organised various events throughout the day at the city's Manik Mia Avenue.
Additionally, Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus is scheduled to read the "July Declaration" this afternoon.
During a visit to Manik Mia Avenue on Tuesday morning, it has been noticed that a "Red Stage" has been set up right in front of the National Parliament building.
LED screens have been installed throughout the area.
For the attendees, the City Corporation has arranged drinking water and toilet facilities.
With all preparations nearly complete, a drum set is now being placed on the stage, and the sound system is being tested.
Since early morning, many people have been waiting, eagerly anticipating the start of the event. More are arriving, accompanied by family members, friends, and students.
Sheikh Jubair, accompanied by his friend, arrived from Savar.
"Today marks exactly one year since Hasina fled. Last year, on this day, we took to the streets to celebrate with joy. Even today, I couldn't stay home. Maybe I'll keep coming out like this every August 5 for the rest of my life," he said.
Another attendee, Mohammad Sujan from Mirpur-1, arrived with his children.
"My kids are very excited. Until now, they've only heard about it, and seen it on TV. But, today, they want to witness the joy of July with their own eyes."
Regarding the July Declaration, he said, "After so many martyrs and injuries, this was something we had long hoped for, and today, it will finally be announced. Let's see what issues are addressed but I'm hopeful that it will bring something positive."
Maulana Habibur Rahman arrived from Darul Uloom Rashidiya Madrasa located in New Market and brought several students with him. He told Stream, "We couldn't speak freely. We couldn't live freely. At times, we were even afraid to walk outside wearing a cap.
"Today marks exactly one year since we were freed from the oppression of that tyrant. This is the reason why I came here, to thank Allah, and to witness the event."
Tight security measures
During the spot visit, it has been seen that the Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) has set up temporary camps at Manik Mia Avenue. Additionally, a large number of police and Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) personnel have deployed.
Law enforcement officials assured that there is no security threat.
RAB-2 Police (Media) Assistant Superintendent Khan Asif Topu told Stream, "We have incorporated a three-layer security system today. Our intelligence officers are working in civil dress, patrol teams have been deployed, and our internal control room is monitoring everything."
When asked if there were any threats surrounding the event, he said, "So far, we have not received any threats, but we are fully prepared to tackle any situation."
BGB Battalion-5 Subedar Mahbub Alam told Stream, "As of now, we are continuing regular patrols, everything is under control and we haven't observed anything unusual."
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