Zoha Day today
“Zoha Day” will be observed by the Rajshahi University authorities today commemorating Prof Dr Shamsuzzoha's 43rd anniversary of martyrdom.
On this day in 1969, Prof Shamsuzzoha, the then proctor and a teacher of chemistry department, was shot dead at RU's main entrance by the Pakistani military junta.
“Prof Shamsuzzoha was requesting two Pakistani army officers, Captain Hadi and Lt Khadem Shah, not to shoot at the students who brought out processions defying Section-144,” said an eyewitness, former vice chancellor Prof Abdul Khaleque.
The students were protesting the murder of Sergeant Zahurul Haque, an accused of Agartala Conspiracy Case, in Pakistani army's custody just three days ago.
“A debate ensued and at one stage, Lt Khadem ordered a Bangalee soldier to shoot the professor. When the soldier refused, Lt Khadem shot the professor with his revolver,” said Prof Khaleque.
Prof Shamsuzzoha's martyrdom sparked violent protests across the then East Pakistan and against the Pakistani army for the withdrawal of the Agartala Conspiracy Case and lead to the fall of the Ayub regime.
The professor was buried by the administrative building. His grave was named Zoha Chattar and a hall was named after him.
Marking the day, the authorities will place wreaths by the grave, hoist black flags and hold rallies, Qurankhwani and memorial speeches.
Progressive Teachers' Society, Shaheed Shamsuzzoha Hall and Rajshahi University Journalists' Association will hold discussions and offer prayers.
The chemistry department will bring out a procession on the campus while the Martyrs' Memorial Museum will stay open from 7:00am to 5:00pm.
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