Database of injured, deceased in student movement nearing completion: Adviser

Plans announced for cash assistance for severely injured individuals & their families

Dhaka, Sept 09 -The work on creating a comprehensive database of students and citizens injured or killed during the Anti-discrimination Student Movement is in its final stages, according to Social Welfare and Women and Children Affairs Adviser Sharmin S. Murshid. She shared this update during a press conference at the Secretariat on Monday, marking the first month of the interim government’s tenure.

“The database, which will detail the number of casualties and injuries, as well as the condition of the affected families, is nearly complete. It will be finalized after verification with information from the Ministry of Health and other relevant authorities. We plan to release this data next month,” Adviser Sharmin Murshid said.

In her remarks, the Adviser highlighted the government’s ongoing efforts to support those impacted by the protests. “To aid injured, affected, and potential youth involved in the movement, we are providing free physiotherapy services through 103 disability service and assistance centers. So far, a total of over 75 lakh BDT in services has been provided to 1,628 injured students and citizens through hospital, social service offices, and upazila patient welfare associations. Additionally, nearly 1,000 individuals have received mental health services,” she added.

Sharmin Murshid also announced plans for further support, including cash assistance for severely injured individuals and their families based on their needs. Under the forthcoming “Internship Policy 2023,” 12 students will be offered four-month internships across various divisions and offices under the Ministry of Social Welfare.

“Injured students and citizens will receive free wheelchairs and hearing aids. For those with limited mobility, mobile vans will deliver services directly to their homes. The National Social Welfare Council will soon publish a priority list of distinguished youth representatives from 64 districts, giving preference to those involved in the protests,” she added.

The government also intends to conduct action research focused on the role of students in the movement and how youth can be further engaged in national service. The findings of this research will be made public in due course. “Through skill development training and micro-loans, we will empower young people to contribute positively to society,” Adviser Sharmin Murshid said.-UNB