In an interview marking the second anniversary of the July Uprising, Jahangirnagar University Bangla Department Chairperson Professor Dr. Shamima Sultana reflected on her decision to remove a portrait of deposed prime minister Sheikh Hasina from her office wall on August 1, 2024. Driven by conscience and a long-held commitment against injustice, Dr. Sultana described the act as a personal ethical protest after witnessing state violence against student protesters, particularly following the attacks on students at the Vice-Chancellor's residence on July 15 and the killing of Abu Sayeed in Rangpur.

During the protests, Dr. Sultana kept her office open to shelter students and provide Wi-Fi access for communication. While her action went viral on social media and earned her family's pride, it also drew severe backlash at the time, including threatening messages, abusive calls, and an unreceived show-cause notice from the former university Syndicate—a penalty later revoked by the new administration after August 5. Reflecting on the episode, Dr. Sultana stated she has never regretted her decision, viewing it simply as her duty as a teacher standing against injustice.