DHAKA, Oct 19, 2022 (BSS) - Bangladesh High Commission in London on Tuesday observed 'Sheikh Russel Day 2022' at a commemorative discussion when speakers noted that the brutal killing of Shaheed Sheikh Russel violated international humanitarian law as well as the child rights convention.

State Minister for Cultural Affairs K M Khalid spoke as the chief guest at the commemorative event organised in East London, marking the 59th Birthday of Sheikh Russel, the youngest son of Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, according to a press release of Bangladesh High Commission in London received here today.

This year's theme of 'Sheikh Russel Day' was "Sheikh Russel Nirmalatar Protik, Duranta Pranbanta Nirvik" (Sheikh Russell is the symbol of serenity, liveliness and fearlessness).

"Sheikh Russel's killers and the mastermind of the 21 August Grande attack on Prime Minister Hasina wanted to eliminate the legacy of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman," State Minister for Cultural Affairs K M Khalid said.

Khalid further said that there are still conspiracies at home and abroad against Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and her government's journey toward a progressive and prosperous Bangladesh.

He called upon all, especially British-Bangladeshis to remain cautious of such conspiracies.

Paying profound homage to Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and Shaheed Sheikh Russel, High Commissioner to the UK Saida Muna Tasneem in her welcome remarks said, "The brutal murder of 10-year-old Sheikh Russell would have been considered a violation under contemporary international humanitarian law as well as the child rights convention and could be a historic reference to prevent future premeditated killing of children."

The high commissioner said, "Under the dynamic leadership of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, Bangladesh has now a comprehensive legislative and regulatory regime that protects the rights of the children, including their right to live and safeguards against brutalities, abuse and discrimination.

Furthermore, the high commissioner added that Bangladesh High Commission, London has constantly connected, nurtured and encouraged the new generation of British-Bangladeshis in culture, education, climate, heritage and sports to strengthen their bond with Bangladesh.
 
Former Member of Bangladesh's National Parliament and eminent lawyer Nrujahan Begum Mukta and a leading organiser of Bangladesh's Liberation War in the UK Sultan Mahmud Sharif spoke at the event as special guests.

 Eminent Freedom Fighter Khalil Kazi and prominent British Bangladeshi community member Syed Sazidur Rahman Faruk also spoke on the occasion.

The day's programme began with the placing of a floral wreath at the portraits of Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and Sheikh Russel by the High Commissioner along with the Chief Guest, Special Guests, and Senior officials of the High Commission.
 
This was followed by a special prayer offered in memory of Sheikh Russel and all family members of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.

A documentary on Sheikh Russel by the ICT Division was shown.
Dedicated to Sheikh Russel, a colourful cultural programme was performed by British-Bangladeshi children and prominent artist Gouri Chowdhury.