Md. Zahid-A- Rahim

Witness of the Blood-Soaked July
Martyr Introduction
Md. Zahid-A-Rahim was a calm-natured businessman, a responsible husband, an ideal father, and a patriotic citizen who courageously stood against state injustice. Dedicated to his profession, yet deeply moved by social inequities, he proved in his final moments that the value of justice and integrity is never lost, even if it costs a life.
Birth and Early Life
Born on 12 July 1979 in an ordinary family of Dhaka, he was the youngest son of Abdur Rahman Mondal and Begum Zarina Mondal. His ancestral roots were in Damdama village, Panchbibi Upazila, Joypurhat district, a place to which his family’s emotional ties remain strong. From childhood, Zahid was gentle, sociable, and confident.
Career
As he grew older, he entered the business world, founding his own firm, Fiza Trade International. His honesty and dedication earned him respect and trust both in trade and among people. He lived a stable life with his wife Sharmin Zahid and two children. Though the family’s permanent home was in Joypurhat, they rented a three-story flat in Purbobashabo, Shabujbag, Dhaka. Since his martyrdom, the family faces severe financial hardship. Sharmin relies on relatives’ help, sympathetic individuals, and limited support to survive. She says, "I struggle to continue my children’s education, sometimes with help from relatives, sometimes neighbors."
July 2024 Movement and Context
July 2024 was a turbulent time, with countrywide protests demanding quota reforms. Dhaka was aflame with these demands, filled with unrest and fear. Zahid-A- Rahim did not join the protests directly but took a stand of conscience. Considering the violent situation, he did not return home from work on 19 July, instead staying at a friend’s place.
Circumstances of Martyrdom
On Friday, 19 July 2024, after Friday prayers, Zahid-A- Rahim was going to a known acquaintance’s house in Shonir Akhra area. Carrying his licensed pistol for personal safety amid rising tensions, some people mistook him for a suspicious attacker upon seeing the gun. He was attacked with sharp weapons and heavy objects around 4 PM. Severely injured, he succumbed to his wounds by 5 PM the same day. His body was laid to rest at Sardar Bari Cemetery, Bashabo, Shabujbag, Dhaka.
Feelings and Memories from Near Ones
Neighbors and relatives remember him as a kind man who cared deeply for everyone. “He kept in touch with his siblings and was thoughtful beyond his own family,” said a neighbor. “We still can’t believe he is gone. Such a gentle, good-hearted person.”
Closing Reflection
Md. Zahid-A- Rahim’s sacrifice stands not only for his family but as a profound symbol for the nation. In a country where citizens must give their lives for awareness and justice, loving one’s country becomes a solemn duty for all conscientious people. Zahid-A- -Rahim was a glowing beacon of that love.
Economic Proposals
Considering the family’s current financial crisis, urgent measures are needed:
1. Provision of scholarships or financial aid through government or NGOs to ensure uninterrupted education for the children.
2. Construction of a permanent house on the martyr’s own land behind the current residence to provide the family a safe and stable home.
At a Glance: Martyr Md. Zahid-A- Rahim’s Profile
Item Details
Name Md. Zahid-A- -Rahim
Date of Birth 12 July 1979
Place of Birth Dhaka
Profession Businessman
Employer/Business Fiza Trade International
Permanent Address Village: Damdama, Union: Balighata, Ward: 5, Thana: Panchbibi, Joypurhat District
Current Address #102, 3rd Floor, Purbobashabo, Shabujbag, Dhaka South City Corporation
Father Abdur Rahman Mondal
Mother Begum Zarina Mondal
Wife Mrs. Sharmin Zahid (Housewife, SSC education)
Family Members Wife, 1 son (Class 12), 1 daughter (Class 9)
Incident Location Shonir Akhra, Jatrabari
Type of Attack Assault with sharp and heavy objects
Date of Injury 19 July 2024, 4 PM
Date of Death 19 July 2024, 5 PM
Burial Location Sardar Bari Cemetery, Bashabo, Shabujbag, Dhaka