Dhaka University Marks Phulbari Day 20th Anniversary

Marking the 20th anniversary of historic Phulbari Day, the Dhaka University branch of the Bangladesh Student Federation organized a documentary exhibition and protest program at Dhaka University on August 26, 2026. The commemorative event brought attention to the historical significance of the day while addressing contemporary concerns regarding energy security and national sovereignty within the country.

As part of the exhibition, organizers screened the documentary titled 'Fulkharir 7 Din', which was directed by Zayed Aziz. The screening served as a visual centerpiece for the gathering, drawing the attention of students and participants to the events and struggles associated with the history commemorated on Phulbari Day.

During the program, Arka Barua delivered remarks addressing the privatization of essential services. Barua stated that if sectors directly impacting human lives, such as electricity and energy, are privatized, the suffering of the country's people will know no end. Consequently, Barua emphasized that the energy sector must remain under government control to ensure proper energy security for the public.

Barua also addressed broader geopolitical and economic concerns during the protest program. Criticizing the ruling class and political parties, Barua remarked that the subservient foreign policy of the ruling authorities and political parties, alongside their mysterious silence regarding United States trade agreements, amounts to extreme betrayal of the people.

The combination of the documentary screening by the Bangladesh Student Federation, Dhaka University branch, and the strong statements delivered by speakers like Arka Barua highlighted ongoing debates surrounding national resources, governance, and economic policies. The event on August 26, 2026, provided a platform for student activists to voice their demands and critiques on these critical national issues.