Bangladesh's interim government has taken a significant step by removing Sheikh Hasina’s father Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’s iconic image from the currency notes. The revered figure who led Bangladesh’s freedom struggle is considered the father of the nation. In an unexpected move, the new currency notes will carry symbols linked to the ‘July Uprising’—the student-led protests that played a crucial role in forcing Hasina to flee the country on August 5. 

These protests, which were sparked by a variety of social and political issues, symbolised a turning point in the country’s leadership. After the ousting of Hasina, Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus assumed the role of Chief Adviser and became the head of the interim government, which is now overseeing the printing of the new currency. 

The legacy of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, often regarded as the Father of the Nation, faced significant challenges during the student protests that erupted over a controversial job quota and later evolved into an anti-government movement. Rahman's statues and murals were targeted after Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina fled to India in August.  In November, his image was also removed from the Darbar Hall of Banga Bhaban. 

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Bangladesh's New Currency Notes To Reflect Uprising 

New Taka currency notes are being printed in Bangladesh, featuring religious structures, Bengali traditions, and graffiti from July's uprising. According to reports, four denominations Taka 20, 100, 500, and 1,000 are being printed, with other denominations set to be redesigned in phases. The Finance Institute Division submitted a detailed proposal for the designs of the new currency notes in September. The new notes are expected to roll out in the coming months.

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On August 5, a student-led movement forced Bangladesh's Prime Minister, Sheikh Hasina, to flee to India after weeks of protests and clashes that resulted in over 600 deaths. An interim government, led by Nobel Laureate Muhammad Yunus, was subsequently formed.