The Jatiyatabadi Chhatra Dal (JCD) celebrates its 46th founding anniversary today. Established on January 1, 1979, by late President Ziaur Rahman, the founder of the BNP, the organization upholds the principles of education, unity, and progress. Over the years, JCD has become one of the largest student organizations in the country, navigating numerous challenges along the way.

To mark the occasion, the organization has planned a two-day program. Today, members will pay tribute to the late president at his grave by laying wreaths and praying for his soul. This will be followed by a blood donation drive outside the Engineers Institution auditorium at noon and a discussion session inside the auditorium at 2 PM. BNP’s acting chairman and JCD’s organizational guardian, Tarique Rahman, will join virtually as the chief guest, while BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir will attend as a special guest. Additionally, badminton tournaments will be held at Dhaka University halls, and colorful rallies will take place nationwide.

On the second day, January 2, a football tournament featuring eight central teams will be held at Gulistan Outdoor Stadium, with various sports events, including cricket, volleyball, and chess, organized across the country.

JCD President Rakibul Islam Rakib expressed that, after over 15 years, the organization finally has the opportunity to celebrate its anniversary in a freer environment. He emphasized their ongoing fight for citizens’ voting rights and acknowledged the sacrifices made in their struggle against the current government.

General Secretary Nasir Uddin Nasir highlighted JCD’s pivotal role in anti-authoritarian movements under Khaleda Zia and Tarique Rahman’s leadership. He reiterated their commitment to merit-based and intellectual student politics, aiming to develop leaders capable of building a democratic Bangladesh founded on equality and human dignity.