Dhaka, Nov 10 (V7N)- Shaheed Noor Hossain Day is being observed today, November 10, marking the anniversary of the death of Noor Hossain, who was shot dead during the anti-autocracy movement in 1987.
His sacrifice became a defining moment in the struggle against military ruler Hussain Muhammad Ershad and helped strengthen the mass movement that eventually led to the fall of his government in 1990. Noor Hossain's courage has since remained a source of inspiration for subsequent movements and struggles for democracy.
On November 10, 1987, Dhaka's streets were filled with anti-Ershad demonstrations. Thousands of protesters gathered around Baitul Mukarram and Gulistan as part of a programme to besiege the Secretariat.
Among the demonstrators was 24-year-old Noor Hossain, who turned himself into a living protest poster. The words "Down with autocracy" were written in white on his chest, while "Liberate democracy" appeared on his back.
His bold protest against authoritarian rule drew widespread attention across the country.
As the procession reached the city's Zero Point, security forces opened fire. Noor Hossain was shot and fell to the ground, his blood marking the struggle for the restoration of democracy.
His death intensified the anti-autocracy movement and became one of its most enduring symbols.
Over the decades, Noor Hossain's courage has continued to inspire people demanding democracy and political rights. His legacy has also been recalled during later mass movements, including the July 2024 uprising.
END/SMA/AJ
