The School of Law at Independent University, Bangladesh (IUB) organised a public lecture titled “The July Uprising in Legal Thoughts” to mark the anniversary of the historic July Uprising. The event brought together students, academics, and legal scholars for a discussion on the movement’s relevance to contemporary legal thinking.

Dr Mohammad Shahabuddin, Professor of International Law and Human Rights at the University of Birmingham, UK, delivered the keynote address. He explored the legal and historical significance of the July Uprising and examined its implications for constitutional development, state responsibility, and the evolution of human rights in post-colonial contexts. Dr Shahabuddin emphasised the continuing relevance of political struggles from the past in shaping legal principles across different jurisdictions.

Prof Dr SMA Faiz, Chairman of the University Grants Commission of Bangladesh, attended the event as chief guest. In his remarks, he urged students to view history as a source of legal insight and moral orientation. Mr Didar A Husain, Chairman of the IUB Board of Trustees, highlighted the need to connect historical movements with present-day legal challenges.

The session was chaired by IUB Vice Chancellor Prof M Tamim, who underlined the responsibility of academic institutions to preserve and interpret significant national events. Dr Borhan Uddin Khan, Advisor and Adjunct Professor at the School of Law, delivered the closing remarks and vote of thanks. He underscored the value of revisiting pivotal historical moments to enrich legal reasoning and inspire future generations.

The programme opened with welcome remarks from Prof Mohammad Nazmuzzaman Bhuiyan, Dean of the School of Law. A question and answer session followed the keynote, during which students and faculty engaged with Dr Shahabuddin on a range of legal and philosophical issues.