Robotic Revolution: 5 Heroes of Anti-Discrimination Movement to Receive Artificial Hands

Atikul Islam Atik, a 19-year-old sales representative from Azampur, Uttara, Dhak, lost his arm during the anti-discrimination student movement on August 5 when he was shot. Despite the tragedy, Atik expressed no regret. From his hospital bed at the National Institute of Traumatology and Orthopaedic Rehabilitation, he stated, “I joined the movement with a pledge—either I would achieve victory or I would perish. I’ve won, so the loss of my hand doesn’t weigh on me.”

Atik is among five courageous individuals set to regain functionality through robotic prosthetic hands, thanks to Robo Life Technologies, Bangladesh's first robotic hand manufacturer. The recipients include Hafiz Md. Hossain from Dhaka and Mamun, Arif Hossain Sagar, and Naim Hasan from other districts.

The official handover ceremony is scheduled for Thursday morning at the ICT Tower in Agargaon, Dhaka. ICT Secretary Shish Hayder Chowdhury will inaugurate the event, with the possibility of ICT Advisor Nahid Islam attending as well. Robo Life Technologies' founder and CEO, Joy Barua Lavlu, will lead the proceedings.

Lavlu, a young innovator and tech entrepreneur from Chattogram, has been developing robotic hands made from a blend of plastic and silicone. These prosthetics, equipped with silicone gloves, closely resemble natural hands in both appearance and function. They incorporate advanced features like voice control, auto control, nerve control, and leg control. Users can grip objects, drink water, and perform other tasks with ease, using controls tailored to their preferences—be it brain signals, voice commands, or devices attached to their legs.

The cost of manufacturing these prosthetics ranges from BDT 30,000 to BDT 100,000. However, this time, the hands will be provided free of charge to the five heroes, courtesy of Babylon Group’s sponsorship. This initiative marks a milestone in empowering those who sacrificed for a cause, showcasing the promise of technology to restore dignity and independence.