Shaheed Noor Hossain Day today: the young man immortalised by the slogan 'Down with autocracy, long live democracy'

Noor Hossain's sacrifice in the movement for democracy and against autocratic rule is a unique chapter in Bangladesh's history. Every year on 10 November, Shaheed Noor Hossain Day is observed with deep respect for his memory. The day is not only about remembering a martyr, but also about renewing the pledge to establish democracy.

In the history of Bangladesh's democratic movement, 10 November 1987 is a memorable and significant day. When the movement of pro-democracy people against the then autocrat Ershad was at its peak, young Noor Hossain joined a protest procession on the streets of the capital.

Written in white paint on his chest and back were the words: 'Down with autocracy, long live democracy.' The slogan was both a language of protest and a reflection of the movement's defiant aspiration to establish a democratic system.

That day, Noor Hossain was martyred in police firing during the anti-autocracy procession. His sacrifice gave fresh momentum to the country's democratic movement. He became a symbol of courage, protest and sacrifice in the anti-autocracy movement.

Though the son of an ordinary family, he showed extraordinary courage and made his name immortal in the pages of history. Today, on his death anniversary, he is being remembered with respect across the country.

Noor Hossain's sacrifice reminds us that democracy is never established on its own. It requires public awareness, political goodwill, the rule of law and a constant struggle to establish people's rights.

The foundations of democracy are freedom of expression, free and fair elections, an independent judiciary and effective public participation in running the state. Without these foundations, the true spirit of democracy cannot be established.

Sad as it is, even so many years after Ershad's fall, the people of this country have not seen their aspiration for democracy realised. After the fall of the autocrat Ershad, every government that came to power has faced accusations of running the state in a more or less authoritarian manner.

Even after the mass uprising of the nineties, whichever party came to power stood against that uprising, creating political division, partisanship, violence, corruption, abuse of power and a crisis of public trust in the electoral system. As a result, establishing a democratic system has been obstructed.

To strengthen democracy, a culture of mutual respect and tolerance must be built among political parties. Opposition views must be given importance. Freedom of the press and independence of the judiciary must be ensured. At the same time, effective action must be taken against corruption and irregularities.

It is especially important to present the life and sacrifice of Shaheed Noor Hossain to the young generation, so they understand that democracy is not the property of any individual or party; it is the right of every citizen of the country. The practice of democratic values must be expanded through educational institutions, social and cultural organisations and the media.

The greatest way to honour the memory of Shaheed Noor Hossain is to establish the democratic Bangladesh of his dreams. Responsibility does not end with observing the day, holding discussion meetings or paying floral tributes. Understanding the significance of his sacrifice, everyone must play a responsible role in establishing a democratic culture in the state and society.

10 November is therefore a day of grief as well as a day of oath for us. Let our pledge on this day be to establish the rule of law in the country, ensure people's right to vote, protect freedom of expression and stand united against all autocratic tendencies. The victory of democracy is the true measure of Shaheed Noor Hossain's sacrifice.