March 26 holds an extraordinary place in the history of Bangladesh as its great Independence Day. This is the day when, in the early hours of 1971, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman made the historic declaration of Bangladesh’s independence. Despite the chaos and brutality unleashed by the Pakistani military, this declaration became the rallying cry for the Liberation War.
The Night of March 25: Prelude to Independence
On the night of March 25, 1971, the barbaric Pakistani military launched a ruthless attack on the people of Dhaka and beyond. They struck the E.P.R. base at Pilkhana, the Rajarbagh police lines, and many other areas, killing thousands of unarmed civilians, including students, members of law enforcement, women, and children. Armed with modern weaponry, the military turned the night into a massacre.
In this grim context, the Pakistani forces arrested Sheikh Mujibur Rahman from his residence at 32 Dhanmondi Road, Dhaka, and took him to West Pakistan. Knowing the gravity of the situation, Bangabandhu ensured his message of independence was communicated before his arrest.
The Declaration of Independence:
In his message, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman proclaimed the independence of Bangladesh and urged the nation to fight for liberation. His declaration stated:
“Pakistan Army suddenly attacked E.P.R. Base at Pilkhana, Rajarbagh Police Line, and is killing citizens. Street battles are going on in every street of Dhaka and Chittagong. I appeal to the Nations of the World for help. Our freedom fighters are gallantly fighting with the enemies to free the motherland. I appeal and order you all in the name of Almighty Allah to fight to the last drop of blood to liberate the country. Ask E.P.R., Bengal Regiment, and Ansar to stand by you and to fight. No compromise; Victory is ours. Drive out the last enemy from the holy soil of the motherland. Convey this message to all Awami League leaders, workers, and other patriots and lovers of freedom. May Allah bless you. ‘Joy Bangla!’
— Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.”
Spreading the Declaration:
Bangabandhu had prepared trusted leaders and organizers with instructions to circulate his message. Mr. Mosharraf Hossain played a vital role by delivering the message to Jahur Ahmed Chowdhury at 11:30 PM that night. After copying the declaration, Jahur Ahmed Chowdhury disseminated it among the Awami League and Student League in Dhaka.
Following an emergency decision, the leaders resolved to transmit the message through Chittagong radio. This station, later named Swadhin Bangla Betar Kendra, became the voice of the independence movement. The message was sent from Dhaka’s Moghbazar wireless station to Chittagong’s Salimpur wireless station between 4 and 5 o’clock in the morning. From there, it reached E.P.R. stations across the nation.Colonel Oli Ahmed undertook significant risks to deliver Bangabandhu’s message to General Ziaur Rahman of the 8th East Bengal Regiment. On March 27, 1971, Ziaur Rahman recited the declaration of independence on behalf of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman through the Chandgaon transmitter in Chittagong. Initially, Zia announced independence in his own name but quickly corrected it to acknowledge Bangabandhu’s leadership under the guidance of political leaders.
The Liberation War and Expatriate Government:
With Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’s declaration as the foundation, the entire nation united against the oppressive forces. E.P.R. personnel, police, students, youth, and ordinary citizens armed themselves with whatever they could find to resist the military.
Awami League leaders, including Syed Nazrul Islam and Tajuddin Ahmed, crossed into India and formed the expatriate government. Syed Nazrul Islam served as Acting President, while Tajuddin Ahmed became the Prime Minister. This government played a pivotal role in organizing and supporting the Liberation War.
Victory and Sovereignty:
After nine months of relentless struggle and sacrifice, Bangladesh achieved independence and sovereignty on December 16, 1971, when the Pakistani military surrendered. This monumental victory marked the culmination of the dreams and resilience of a nation led by Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.
A Legacy of Leadership and Sacrifice:
March 26, 1971, stands as a beacon of hope and determination for the people of Bangladesh. Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’s declaration of independence was not just a moment in time but the beginning of the nation’s journey toward freedom. His leadership and the sacrifices of countless individuals solidified Bangladesh’s path to becoming a sovereign state.
“Joy Bangla!” continues to inspire the nation as a powerful symbol of unity and the spirit of liberation.
Deepanwita Martin, Sub Editor, The Voice News