Neglect leaves marks on a building of pride
Graphics: Agamir Somoy
The building constructed to honor those whose sacrifices secured Bangladesh’s independence now lies in a state of severe neglect. It bears the scars of vandalism. This is the Upazila Freedom Fighters Complex in Manoharganj, Cumilla.
The building was supposed to be bustling with the presence of freedom fighters. Instead, its windowpanes are broken, iron grilles are damaged and the inauguration plaque has been defaced. Moss covers the walls and plaster is peeling off. Weeds have overgrown the surrounding area. Just three years after its inauguration, the building constructed for freedom fighters has fallen into disrepair.
Freedom fighters say the building has deteriorated because of a lack of regular maintenance and vandalism. In particular, miscreants extensively vandalized the complex on August 5, 2024. They broke iron grilles and windowpanes on different floors of the building. Aluminum window frames are loose and hanging in several places, posing a serious security threat.
Due to a lack of regular supervision and maintenance, layers of moss have accumulated on the exterior walls. Plaster is peeling off and the paint has lost its brightness, giving the building an eerie appearance. The surrounding boundary wall and entrance have been covered with weeds, bushes and vines.
A visit to the site found that the marble inauguration plaque at the building’s entrance had been defaced with black ink. The area surrounding the plaque has also been damaged. Windowpanes and protective iron grilles on different floors are broken. In some places, aluminum window frames have become loose and are hanging precariously. This has raised concerns about the building’s security.
Local residents said the problems extend beyond the windows and plaque, with the overall infrastructure also in a fragile condition. The lack of regular cleaning and maintenance over a long period has led to moss growing on the exterior walls. Plaster has peeled off in several places and the paint has faded. The important structure, built with public funds, is losing its original beauty and usability.
The Local Government Engineering Department (LGED) constructed the building under the Ministry of Liberation War Affairs. It was formally inaugurated on October 26, 2023.
However, the condition of the building has sparked anger among local residents. It was built to preserve the memories of valiant freedom fighters, conduct welfare activities for them and ensure a suitable environment for their needs. The damage to various parts of the building within just a few years of its inauguration has raised questions about proper supervision.
Freedom fighters have also expressed their anger over the building’s condition. According to valiant freedom fighter Mokhlesur Rahman Majumder, the dilapidated state of a building constructed in memory of those whose sacrifices secured Bangladesh’s independence is deeply painful. Within just a few years of its inauguration, the building has been pushed toward destruction by neglect and vandalism. He called for those responsible for the vandalism to be identified and given exemplary punishment. He also demanded that renovation work begin quickly.
Regarding the damage and renovation of the building, Manoharganj Upazila Engineer Md. Kamal Uddin of LGED said, “Although the Freedom Fighters Complex was constructed under LGED’s supervision, the windowpanes, grilles and boundary wall have been damaged due to a lack of regular maintenance after the building was handed over. The current extent of the damage is being assessed through an on site inspection, and a renovation estimate is being prepared. Renovation work will begin quickly once approval from the higher authorities and the necessary budget allocation are received.”
Valiant freedom fighters have also demanded that the building be renovated quickly and made usable. They said that one time renovation alone would not be enough. Regular maintenance, adequate security and responsible supervision must also be ensured. Otherwise, this important structure built with public funds could face further damage.
The upazila administration has assured that necessary steps will be taken to protect the building and address its deteriorating condition. Manoharganj Upazila Assistant Commissioner (Land) Umme Salma said, “After discussing the matter with the Upazila Nirbahi Officer, necessary measures will be taken quickly to renovate the Freedom Fighters Complex and ensure its security.”
