Dhaka: Although more than five months have passed since the tragic death of Rubel Islam, his mother remains engulfed in deep shock. Rubel, who became a martyr on August 5, 2024, following the downfall of autocratic ruler Sheikh Hasina, was a beacon of hope for his family. His reassuring words about ensuring his younger brother’s education and building a home fill the memories of his parents, Md. Rafiqul Islam and Mst Mini Khatun, with both pride and sorrow.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Rubel’s family had moved to Dhaka from their village in hopes of a better future. Rubel found employment at a garment factory in Adabor, while his father worked as a rickshaw puller. Rubel’s mother, Mini Khatun, had envisioned a bright future for her family, supported by the earnings of her husband and son. However, their dreams were shattered on August 5, when a bullet ended Rubel’s life during an anti-discrimination movement.
On that day, Rubel joined a spirited procession that reached the Adabor Police Station. Leading from the front, he was shot and later succumbed to his injuries on August 7 at a hospital. Rubel had harbored dreams of earning enough to support his younger brother’s education and securing a permanent home for his family. His dedication was evident through his work in Dhaka and his commitment to his brother, Roni Islam, who is currently studying in class six.
Recalling the tragic day, Mini Khatun shared that her son had promised to pay his brother’s overdue school tuition before he left home. Meanwhile, Md. Rafiqul Islam narrated how Rubel used to return home from night shifts at the garment factory. On August 5, Rubel was late, and when his father called, Rubel assured him that he would be home soon. However, by 3:30 pm, news of Rubel being shot at the procession reached his father, who rushed to several hospitals before finding his son undergoing surgery.
Rubel passed away at City Care General Hospital on August 7, and his body was laid to rest in their village graveyard. Family sources revealed that Rubel was the third child in a family of two brothers and three sisters. Having completed up to the seventh grade, he was the sole breadwinner. Following his death, the family returned to their village, now living in a house on borrowed land with their younger son, Roni.
The family received financial assistance from various sources, including Taka 25,000 for transport, Taka 30,000 from the district administration, and significant amounts from local organizations. Rafiqul Islam used a portion of the funds for medical expenses.
Community leaders have expressed support for Rubel’s family. Gorgram Union BNP General Secretary Matiur Rahman mentioned that on their recommendation, Rubel’s father was given a job by a local business leader. Former Union Parishad Chairman Reazul Islam emphasized the family’s dire situation and urged continued support to help them lead a dignified life.