[🇧🇩] Liberation War: Sheikh Mujib and Others

[Saif]

'Take oath to uphold the spirit of Liberation War'

Chief adviser urged Bangladeshis to take oath to protect sovereignty of the country on Victory Day

www.thedailystar.net

'Take oath to uphold the spirit of Liberation War'
Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus urged Bangladeshis to take an oath to protect the sovereignty of the country on Victory Day

File photo

Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus today said Victory Day, to be celebrated on December 16, is not only a source of pride for us but and also an occasion to take oath to remain united to protect the sovereignty of the country.

"The oath is to remain united, protect the sovereignty of the country, and uphold the spirit of the Liberation War," he said in a message on the occasion of Victory Day.

On this day, Prof Yunus said the Victory Day is a reminder to us to the bravery and sacrifices of our martyrs of the freedom struggle .

"We promise to work together to build a developed, prosperous, and well-governed Bangladesh by the interim government formed through the mass uprising of the students, workers, and people," he said.

Yunus said they are determined to further develop and strengthen the country and enjoy the full benefits of freedom.

"Today is 16th December, Victory Day. This day is a very glorious and memorable day in Bangladesh's history," he said on the eve of the occasion.

On December 16, 1971, Yunus said Bangladesh gained the taste of freedom and self-identity as a nation through the victory in the Liberation War.

"We get our desired freedom in exchange for the blood and sacrifice of millions of martyrs," he said, adding that "I wish Victory Day 2024 a great success."​

 

[theIndian]

We know @Sharma Ji is addicted

 

[Saif]

The wonder of guerilla warfare in 1971

In 1971, the people of Bangladesh united to fight the occupying Pakistani forces and their local collaborators.

www.thedailystar.net

Kaderia Bahini
The wonder of guerilla warfare in 1971

In 1971, the people of Bangladesh united to fight the occupying Pakistani forces and their local collaborators.

Against the powerful Pakistani military, which was armed with advanced weaponry, armaments, artillery and tanks, the Bangladeshi people hardly had any means to fight back. As such, they adopted guerrilla warfare by forming small groups of freedom fighters, armed with their bravery and die hard valour.

One such guerilla groups was the famous Kaderia Bahini in Tangail district, which put up a strong resistance against the Pakistani army in the region.

The force not only seized Tangail's freedom from occupation, but also went on to emerge as a wonder of guerrilla warfare, with its name spread even beyond the country's borders.

Kaderia Bahini was formed in the Tangail region on April 19, 1971, led by legendary freedom fighter Abdul Kader Siddique, a civilian guerrilla fighter also known as Bagha Siddique (Tiger Siddique).

With 17,000 regular freedom fighters and 70,000 volunteers under 91 companies, the group defeated the Pakistani forces in numerous battles in Tangail and several adjoining districts of Dhaka, Mymensingh, Jamalpur, Sirajganj and Pabna, one after another, with Siddique leading from the front with his bravery and tactics.

Kader Siddique later recorded his experiences from the warfront in his book titled "Swadhinata 71".

The force was headquartered in the remote, hilly areas in Tangail's Sakhipur, and had a training center in Andhi village. Kader's elder brother Abdul Latif Siddique, a member of the then Gono Parishad and also one of the organisers of the Liberation War, conducted the oath of the freedom fighters.

Although a guerrilla force, it was run militarily, with its own finance department, public relations department, radio-telephone-communications department, food department, and justice and prison department. It also set up a hospital at Muktanchal, adjacent to the force's headquarters, for treating wounded freedom fighters.

In addition, Kaderia Bahini also had a civilian division, headed by Anwarul Alam Shaheed.

Kaderia Bahini would ambush the enemy forces and after securing victory, would advance to the next frontier. It took part in at least 73 small and big battles with the Pakistani army, including the battles of Makrai, Dhalapara, Kamutia, Balla, Fultala, Bathuli, Patharghata and Ghatail.

However, its most renowned and successful battle was the one fought in Matikata of Bhuanpur in August, famously known as "Jahajmara War" in history. It was an operation by the freedom fighters against Pakistani war ships.

Kaderia Bahini also played a crucial role in claiming the final victory in Dhaka in December. Kader Siddique was present at the surrender of the Pakistani forces in Dhaka on December 16.

Hamidul Haque, Habibur Rahman Khoka, Fazlul Haque, Fazlur Rahman, Abdus Sabur Khan, Habibur Rahman Habib, Abul Kalam Azad, Hobibor Rahman Hobi, Mohammad Abdullah, Syed Golam Mostofa, Abdur Razzaque, Nurun Nabi, Bulbul Khan Mahbub, Ashraf Girani, Abdul Aziz, and Nurul Islam are among the freedom fighters of the Kaderia Bahini noted for their bravery in the war.

After the independence, Kader Siddique was honoured with the title of "Bir Uttam" for his extraordinary contributions in the Liberation War, while 16 others from the force got different awards -- two with "Bir Bikram" and 14 with "Bir Protik".

Kader Siddique and his Kaderia Bahini surrendered their arms to Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman on Bindubasini Boys' High School premises on January 24, 1972.​

 

[Saif]

Bangladesh debunks attempts to distort 1971 Liberation War history

The Bangladesh government today refuted attempts to distort the history of its 1971 Liberation War, referencing a book written by the late JN Dixit, a former Indian foreign secretary, diplomat, and National Security Adviser.

en.prothomalo.com

Bangladesh debunks attempts to distort 1971 Liberation War history
BSS
Published: 18 Dec 2024, 21: 17

Bangladesh Government Logo File photo

The Bangladesh government today refuted attempts to distort the history of its 1971 Liberation War, referencing a book written by the late JN Dixit, a former Indian foreign secretary, diplomat, and National Security Adviser.

“We celebrate our glorious Victory in 1971; we celebrate the Truth,” the foreign ministry stated in a post on its verified Facebook page, citing Dixit’s observations on the events of 16 December, 1971.

The ministry’s post, titled “Facts in History”, reiterated that Bangladesh emerged as a sovereign, independent country on 16 December, 1971, following a prolonged struggle and a nine-month-long brutal war.

It quoted Dixit’s book Liberation and Beyond: Indo-Bangladesh Relations, which detailed the surrender ceremony marking the end of the war.

The ministry’s post included the following excerpt from the Dixit’s book: “A major political mistake at the surrender ceremony was the Indian military high command’s failure to ensure the presence of General M.A.G. Osmani, Commander from the Bangladesh side on the Joint Command, at the ceremony and making him a signatory. The formal excuse explaining his absence was that his helicopter did take off but could not reach Dhaka in time for the surrender schedule. But there was widespread suspicion that his helicopter had been sent astray so that he could not reach Dhaka in time and the focus of attention at the ceremony was riveted on the Indian military commanders. This was an unfortunate aberration which India could have avoided.

The event generated much resentment among Bangladeshi political circles. Osmani’s presence at the surrender ceremony could have helped in avoiding many of the political misunderstandings which affected Indo-Bangladesh relations in the initial days of Bangladesh’s independence.”

The post concluded, “We celebrate our glorious Victory in 1971; we celebrate the Truth.”

The ministry’s comments coincided with a hugely sparked public reactions to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s post on his X account (formerly Twitter) marking Bangladesh’s Victory Day. Modi’s remarks drew criticism from various political parties and prominent figures in Bangladesh.

In his Handle, Modi wrote – “Today, on Vijay Diwas, we honour the courage and sacrifices of the brave soldiers who contributed to India’s historic victory in 1971. Their selfless dedication and unwavering resolve safeguarded our nation and brought glory to us. This day is a tribute to their extraordinary valour and their unshakable spirit. Their sacrifices will forever inspire generations and remain deeply embedded in our nation’s history.

Widespread backlash

Criticism poured in from various quarters, including Communist Party of Bangladesh, Socialist Party of Bangladesh, and Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami and advisers of the interim government.

Law Adviser Asif Nazrul strongly protested Modi’s remarks, stating on his verified Facebook account : “I strongly protest. December 16, 1971, was Bangladesh's Victory Day. India was only an ally in this victory, nothing more than that.”

Shipping, Labour, and E-employment Adviser retired Brigadier General M. Sakhawat Hossain emphasized Bangladesh’s central role, saying, “We started our liberation war and we ended it,” as reported by New Age.

Hasnat Abdullah, convener of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement, also criticized Modi’s comments in a Facebook post, stating: “This was Bangladesh's Liberation War. It was for Bangladesh's independence against Pakistan.

But Modi has claimed it was solely India's war and their achievement, disregarding Bangladesh's existence in their narrative. When India claims this independence as their achievement, I see it as a direct threat to Bangladesh's independence, sovereignty, and integrity. Our struggle against this threat from India is inevitable. We must continue this struggle.”​

 

[Bilal9]

Please don't bank too much on our subs as they are 30 years old Chinese Mings.

Well for training purposes they are fine - which is what we need right now.

Training a competent underwater naval component ASAP is a must.

Equipment can come later.

Also - the Mings (version 035G class for BN) were upgraded significantly to bring then up to speed apparently to current Chinese PLAN standards. Like anti-submarine (ASW), Yu-3 torpedo, and French sonar DUUX-5capability. More details here in an official PLAN fan magazine from China.

035型明级常规动力潜艇

(Click browser options to translate into English)

Wiki also says - "The upgrade included the installation of new sensors, modern computers and communication systems. Interior decoration and crew comfort also improved."

"BNS Joyjatra uses Chinese H/SQ2-262C active sonar (improved Pike Jaw MG-100 sonar), a Chinese copy of the French DUUX-5 passive sonar, integrated by an ES5F integrated sonar system. The boat uses MRK-50 Topol (Snoop Tray) surface search radar, a Magnavox satellite navigation system for communications, with a Type 921A electronics warfare suite.

BNS Joyjatra has eight 533 mm (21 in) torpedo tubes which can launch a complement of 14 heavy weight ET-31 anti-ship torpedoes and ET-40 anti-submarine torpedoes. ET-31 has a range of 15 kilometers with speed of 40 knots. ET-31 use active/passive acoustic homing guidance. ET-40 torpedo has two modes which can be launched from Model 7436 triple tube torpedo launching system. ET-40 has 30 kilometers range with speed of 25 knots or 18 kilometers range with speed of 42 knots. ET-40 use wire guidance (fire-and-forget) and active acoustic homing for ASW role. ET-40 can also be used against surface ship while first stage is straight run (unguided) till passive acoustic homing mode (600m acquisition range) or wake homing guidance activated. Alternatively, the boat can carry up to 32 naval mines.

Brand new they may not be, but well-functioning is good enough for defence purposes, until we find and induct better equipment like better (quieter) diesel electric subs.

Being that Hasina did her level best to please her masters in neutering our Navy, things can only look better from this point on forward.

 

[Bilal9]

Bangladesh debunks attempts to distort 1971 Liberation War history

The Bangladesh government today refuted attempts to distort the history of its 1971 Liberation War, referencing a book written by the late JN Dixit, a former Indian foreign secretary, diplomat, and National Security Adviser.

en.prothomalo.com

Bangladesh debunks attempts to distort 1971 Liberation War history
BSS
Published: 18 Dec 2024, 21: 17

View attachment 11815
Bangladesh Government Logo File photo

The Bangladesh government today refuted attempts to distort the history of its 1971 Liberation War, referencing a book written by the late JN Dixit, a former Indian foreign secretary, diplomat, and National Security Adviser.

“We celebrate our glorious Victory in 1971; we celebrate the Truth,” the foreign ministry stated in a post on its verified Facebook page, citing Dixit’s observations on the events of 16 December, 1971.

The ministry’s post, titled “Facts in History”, reiterated that Bangladesh emerged as a sovereign, independent country on 16 December, 1971, following a prolonged struggle and a nine-month-long brutal war.

It quoted Dixit’s book Liberation and Beyond: Indo-Bangladesh Relations, which detailed the surrender ceremony marking the end of the war.

The ministry’s post included the following excerpt from the Dixit’s book: “A major political mistake at the surrender ceremony was the Indian military high command’s failure to ensure the presence of General M.A.G. Osmani, Commander from the Bangladesh side on the Joint Command, at the ceremony and making him a signatory. The formal excuse explaining his absence was that his helicopter did take off but could not reach Dhaka in time for the surrender schedule. But there was widespread suspicion that his helicopter had been sent astray so that he could not reach Dhaka in time and the focus of attention at the ceremony was riveted on the Indian military commanders. This was an unfortunate aberration which India could have avoided.

The event generated much resentment among Bangladeshi political circles. Osmani’s presence at the surrender ceremony could have helped in avoiding many of the political misunderstandings which affected Indo-Bangladesh relations in the initial days of Bangladesh’s independence.”

The post concluded, “We celebrate our glorious Victory in 1971; we celebrate the Truth.”

The ministry’s comments coincided with a hugely sparked public reactions to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s post on his X account (formerly Twitter) marking Bangladesh’s Victory Day. Modi’s remarks drew criticism from various political parties and prominent figures in Bangladesh.

In his Handle, Modi wrote – “Today, on Vijay Diwas, we honour the courage and sacrifices of the brave soldiers who contributed to India’s historic victory in 1971. Their selfless dedication and unwavering resolve safeguarded our nation and brought glory to us. This day is a tribute to their extraordinary valour and their unshakable spirit. Their sacrifices will forever inspire generations and remain deeply embedded in our nation’s history.

Widespread backlash

Criticism poured in from various quarters, including Communist Party of Bangladesh, Socialist Party of Bangladesh, and Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami and advisers of the interim government.

Law Adviser Asif Nazrul strongly protested Modi’s remarks, stating on his verified Facebook account : “I strongly protest. December 16, 1971, was Bangladesh's Victory Day. India was only an ally in this victory, nothing more than that.”

Shipping, Labour, and E-employment Adviser retired Brigadier General M. Sakhawat Hossain emphasized Bangladesh’s central role, saying, “We started our liberation war and we ended it,” as reported by New Age.

Hasnat Abdullah, convener of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement, also criticized Modi’s comments in a Facebook post, stating: “This was Bangladesh's Liberation War. It was for Bangladesh's independence against Pakistan.

But Modi has claimed it was solely India's war and their achievement, disregarding Bangladesh's existence in their narrative. When India claims this independence as their achievement, I see it as a direct threat to Bangladesh's independence, sovereignty, and integrity. Our struggle against this threat from India is inevitable. We must continue this struggle.”​

These blunders (see red highlighting above) at the head of the Indian political and military apparatus are becoming unfortunately more common by the day, and as observed, were plentiful during 1971 as well, showing the shortsightedness and narrow viewpoint of some of the Indian military commanders.

It is regrettable - but not surprising.

Notice how Hasina was protected by a full R&AW station chief in Dhaka (as an Indian asset) - and what little R&AW could do to save her. Just rank incompetence.

Ran away as fast as their legs could take them, so fast, that most of the Awami League functionaries were left to fend for themselves.

 

[Saif]

Well for training purposes they are fine - which is what we need right now.

Training a competent underwater naval component ASAP is a must.

Equipment can come later.

Also - the Mings (version 035G class for BN) were upgraded significantly to bring then up to speed apparently to current Chinese PLAN standards. Like anti-submarine (ASW), Yu-3 torpedo, and French sonar DUUX-5capability. More details here in an official PLAN fan magazine from China.

035型明级常规动力潜艇

(Click browser options to translate into English)

Wiki also says - "The upgrade included the installation of new sensors, modern computers and communication systems. Interior decoration and crew comfort also improved."

"BNS Joyjatra uses Chinese H/SQ2-262C active sonar (improved Pike Jaw MG-100 sonar), a Chinese copy of the French DUUX-5 passive sonar, integrated by an ES5F integrated sonar system. The boat uses MRK-50 Topol (Snoop Tray) surface search radar, a Magnavox satellite navigation system for communications, with a Type 921A electronics warfare suite.

BNS Joyjatra has eight 533 mm (21 in) torpedo tubes which can launch a complement of 14 heavy weight ET-31 anti-ship torpedoes and ET-40 anti-submarine torpedoes. ET-31 has a range of 15 kilometers with speed of 40 knots. ET-31 use active/passive acoustic homing guidance. ET-40 torpedo has two modes which can be launched from Model 7436 triple tube torpedo launching system. ET-40 has 30 kilometers range with speed of 25 knots or 18 kilometers range with speed of 42 knots. ET-40 use wire guidance (fire-and-forget) and active acoustic homing for ASW role. ET-40 can also be used against surface ship while first stage is straight run (unguided) till passive acoustic homing mode (600m acquisition range) or wake homing guidance activated. Alternatively, the boat can carry up to 32 naval mines.

Brand new they may not be, but well-functioning is good enough for defence purposes, until we find and induct better equipment like better (quieter) diesel electric subs.

Being that Hasina did her level best to please her masters in neutering our Navy, things can only look better from this point on forward.

I am hoping that BN would choose Yuan class submarine(Type 039D) to maintain balance of power in the Bay of Bengal. BN can ask for a long term Chinese loan to pay for the Yuans. What do you think?

 

[Bilal9]

I am hoping that BN would choose Yuan class submarine(Type 039D) to maintain balance of power in the Bay of Bengal. BN can ask for a long term Chinese loan to pay for the Yuans. What do you think?

I think purchase of two Type 039D for now is a practical and time-appropriate move, relatively economical to purchase and maintain. The Mings were about 200 Million for two which was IMHO rather overpriced (given Hasina's cut in that purchase).

I don't think at this point in time - our navy is ready for diesel electric attack subs (041) like Pakistan is inducting. Anything more potent than 039 Yuan class may invite issues from our larger and smaller neighbors. In fact this meagre 039 Yuan class defensive purchase will also invite some pressure, but it will die down sooner. It is what it is.

We have to walk a fine tightrope. While we have to maintain a stronger defensive naval posture than currently, we also cannot forget that our economic strength vis-a-vis other South Asian countries is also a deterrent by itself. We have to balance a strong defence posture with an equally strong economy, with sufficient reserves and economic fundamentals.

One has to sustain defensive battles and wars, not just start them. In this respect our larger neighbor has a leg up on us already.

 

[Saif]

I think purchase of two Type 039D for now is a practical and time-appropriate move, relatively economical to purchase and maintain. The Mings were about 200 Million for two which was IMHO rather overpriced (given Hasina's cut in that purchase).

I don't think at this point in time - our navy is ready for diesel electric attack subs (041) like Pakistan is inducting. Anything more potent than 039 Yuan class may invite issues from our larger and smaller neighbors. In fact this meagre 039 Yuan class defensive purchase will also invite some pressure, but it will die down sooner. It is what it is.

We have to walk a fine tightrope. While we have to maintain a stronger defensive naval posture than currently, we also cannot forget that our economic strength vis-a-vis other South Asian countries is also a deterrent by itself. We have to balance a strong defence posture with an equally strong economy, with sufficient reserves and economic fundamentals.

One has to sustain defensive battles and wars, not just start them. In this respect our larger neighbor has a leg up on us already.

Pakistan navy got the TOT for Yuan class (Type 039B) submarine. The latest version of Yuan is Type 039D.

Bangladesh's defense budget is not much as compared to other South Asian countries. Currently it is a little over 1% of our GDP. Our economy has been doing badly because of rampant corruption and money laundering by the Hasina regime and its beneficiaries.

 

[Bilal9]

Pakistan navy got the TOT for Yuan class (Type 039B) submarine. The latest version of Yuan is Type 039D.

Bangladesh's defense budget is not much as compared to other South Asian countries. Currently it is a little over 1% of our GDP. Our economy has been doing badly because of rampant corruption and money laundering by the Hasina regime and its beneficiaries.

I think ToT purchases are for the time being - overkill for us. These cost a lot more than regular purchases.

 

[Saif]

Mothers, the unsung heroes of Liberation War

The success of the Liberation War was deeply rooted in the selfless sacrifices and unwavering support provided by the mothers, said speakers at an event yesterday.

www.thedailystar.net

Mothers, the unsung heroes of Liberation War
Speakers commemorate their selfless sacrifices at event

Speakers at a discussion, titled “Mothers’ Role in the Liberation War,” held at the Daily Star Centre yesterday. The event was organised by women freedom fighters to commemorate the selfless sacrifices and unwavering support provided by the mothers during the country’s Liberation War in 1971. Photo: Star

My mother never feared anything. She always inspired us, saying that we were fighting for our country. With that spirit, she sent us into an unknown future and taught us to protect ourselves if captured.— Syeda Kamal, Daughter of Sufia Kamal

The success of the Liberation War was deeply rooted in the selfless sacrifices and unwavering support provided by the mothers, said speakers at an event yesterday.

While it is often assumed that mothers sent their sons to join the war, many also sent their daughters to fight, the speakers said.

Their involvement extended far beyond providing food and shelter; many stood bravely against the Pakistani forces and even participated in combat.

The discussion, titled "Mothers' Role in the Liberation War," was held at the Daily Star Centre. The event was organised by women freedom fighters.

Shaheen Anam, daughter of freedom fighter Musleha Islam, shared her mother's inspiring story. Musleha not only sheltered freedom fighters in her Dhanmondi home but also donated funds to support them.

"I get very emotional when I remember the heroism of our mothers during the Liberation War. Their contributions must be documented and widely shared. These stories, though crucial to our history, are not well known and must come to the forefront," said Shaheen Anam.

Rizwan Faruk, son of Musleha Islam, recalled how their Dhanmondi home became a hub for freedom fighters, where Molotov cocktails were made by his elder brother Wasif Islam and his friends.

Despite the risks, his mother, a widow at 29, provided support and courage.

Following the military crackdown on March 26, 1971, arms were smuggled into their house for safekeeping.

Rizwan shared the fear of military raids and how his mother comforted them through constant danger.

The tension reached its peak on August 30, 1971, when the military raided their home, arresting freedom fighters and searching for arms. During the raid, his mother was interrogated. She pleaded with the soldiers to spare him, using her fluent Urdu. Miraculously, the major released him, Rizwan recounted.

Cultural activist Lubna Marium referred to her father, Quazi Nooruzzaman, Sector Commander of Sector 7, who documented mothers' contributions in his book.

He wrote about how teenage boys joined the war with dry food, including puffed rice packed by their mothers.

When asked who sent them, they would always say, "Our mothers," she said.

Lubna also shared how her mother, Professor Sultana Zaman, sent her 15-year-old brother Nadeem to join the war.

Despite the challenges, as Nadeem lived in a bunker with insufficient food, her mother never complained about the hardships.

Prothom Alo Associate Editor Shumona Sharmin highlighted her mother Maleka Khan's vital role in rehabilitating women, under the leadership of Sufia Kamal, tortured by Pakistani soldiers .

"My mother worked as a director and handled the survivors' stories with great sensitivity to prevent retraumatising them. She documented their accounts and worked to make them financially independent," Shumona shared.

She added, "These women would come to our house with their sewing and stitching skills. However, my mother always warned us not to ask them about their past, fearing it might reopen their wounds."

Naripokkho founding member Shireen Huq recalled how their home became a sanctuary for freedom fighters.

"My mother always said that if someone sought shelter, we must provide it. I remember our drawing room being packed with people, and everyone managed to coexist despite the challenges. Many non-Bangalee families also sought refuge at our house. At one point, I had to move to my aunt's home because so many people had come seeking shelter," Shireen recounted.

Cultural activist Minu Haque shared how her mother bid her farewell during the war with the words, "We will meet again in Maidan-E-Hashar," praising the bravery of mothers who sent their daughters to join the fight for liberation.

Sufia Kamal's daughters, Sultana Kamal and Syeda Kamal, shared the inspiring story of their mother's unwavering contributions to the movement.

"My mother never feared anything. She always inspired us, saying that we were fighting for our country. With that spirit, she sent us into an unknown future and taught us to protect ourselves if captured," said Syeda Kamal.

Sultana Kamal elaborated on how her mother's involvement in the liberation movement began in 1969 when she started organising neighbourhood women to join the cause.

"When it was decided that my sister and I would cross the border, my mother played a crucial role in encouraging us, even though we had never travelled outside Bangladesh before," Sultana Kamal shared.

Even after the war, Sufia Kamal continued her efforts, working tirelessly to rehabilitate tortured women and ensure they could rebuild their lives in safety and dignity.

Rumana Shafi, daughter of Begum Mushtari Shafi, shared her mother's involvement in the war and the devastating loss of her husband, Dr Mohammad Shafi, and younger brother, Ehsanul Haque Ansari, who were killed by the Pakistani military.

Despite her immense grief, Begum Mushtari continued her work at Swadhin Bangla Betar Kendra until Bangladesh achieved victory on December 16, 1971.

She documented her memories and experiences by writing books about the Liberation War, preserving the stories of sacrifice and resilience for future generations, Rumana said.​

 

[Saif]

Dr. Yunus's role in 1971 Liberation War

When the Liberation War broke out in Bangladesh in 1971,Dr. Muhammad Yunus engaged himself in building public opinion in favour of the war while teaching at the Middle Tennessee State University in the United States

en.prothomalo.com

Dr. Yunus's role in 1971 Liberation War
BSS
Dhaka
Published: 30 Dec 2024, 21: 01

When the Liberation War broke out in Bangladesh in 1971, Professor Dr. Muhammad Yunus, currently the chief adviser to the interim government, engaged himself in building public opinion in favour of the war while teaching at the Middle Tennessee State University in the United States (US).

There, he organised Bangalees to support Bangladesh independence and raised funds, as well as led various programmes to draw attention of the diplomats from various countries working at the United Nations, including the US administration.

He regularly kept in touch with the editors and journalists of local newspapers and television stations there to convey news of the freedom-loving people of Bangladesh through the US media.

Professor Yunus ran the Bangladesh Information Center with the Bangladeshi diaspora to gather support for the Liberation War. He used to publish the 'Bangladesh Newsletter' from his home in Nashville, USA.

The Nobel Peace Prize-winning economist has mentioned his eventful days during the Liberation War in his autobiography, 'Banker To The Poor'.

He wrote, 'On March 25, 1971, the Liberation War broke out in Bangladesh and our plans to return there were abandoned. I devoted myself to the cause of the liberation. Like all Bengalis, I was keeping a close watch on the events in Dhaka. The fateful day, I came back to my apartment to have lunch and turned on the radio to get the latest news. There was a brief item stating that the Pakistani army had moved in to stop the political opposition against the government of Pakistan ..."

At that time, Dr Yunus wrote, while he was changing his clothes, he stopped, rushed to the phone and called one expatriate Bengali Dr Zillur at Nashville.

The Nobel Laureate asked Dr Zillur to turn on the radio. He told him that he was going to his house immediately and that he should contact all other Bengalis.

Referring to assembling of Bengalis at Zillur's house in Nashville, USA, on March 26, Dr Yunus wrote, 'Within an hour, I was at Zillur's house. At that time, there were six Bengalis from East Pakistan in greater Nashville (including myself). We all assembled in his house to decide what to do. We carried on collecting information from all sources. The message was clear; the Pakistani army wanted to crush Bengalis once and for all."

"We collected all the information we could. We were terribly frustrated. We tried to sum up the situation and come to some decision. There was no clear consensus on the situation. . . Finally I could not take it anymore and said, we have all the details we need. Bangladesh has declared independence," he said in his book.

"Now we have to decide whether we will consider ourselves citizens of this new country or not. Everybody has the right to choose. I declare my choice. My choice is Bangladesh. I declare my allegiance to Bangladesh. If there is anyone else who would like to join me in this, he is free to do so. Those who will not join, I would consider them as Pakistanis and enemies of Bangladesh," he wrote.

"There was silence. Everyone was surprised taken aback by the way I posed the question of allegiance. It was such a charged situation that soon everybody opted for Bangladesh. I suggested that we form a 'Bangladesh Citizens' Committee' and issue a press release immediately for the Nashville print and electronic media."

Three things were decided in that meeting:

1. We would try to meet all the news reporters of the local TV stations, and the editors of local daily newspapers to explain our decision and seek support for the Bangladesh cause.

2. We would immediately put $1000 each to create a fund to carry on the struggle.

3. We would put 10 percent of our salary in the fund every month until Bangladesh became independent. If needed, we would increase the percentage.

Professor Yunus further wrote in his autobiography, "On the next day (27 March), we made appointments with local TV stations and dailies. I was elected secretary of the Bangladesh Citizens' Committee and spokesperson for the group. Local TV stations never get a chance to develop international news stories, so they received us with enthusiasm. For them we represented red-hot international news with a local angle to it. I was a teacher in a local university; the other five were medical doctors in city hospitals, and here we were declaring ourselves citizens of a country not yet born. What an exciting news item!".

He wrote: "We were interviewed by the dailies. Our pictures were taken. We were also interviewed by all the three local TV channels. We then re-assembled at Zillur's house in the afternoon to watch the evening news. Our guess was right we were treated with importance. My interview was telecast in full during the local news. The interviewer asked, 'Do you have a message for the Tennesseans?' 'Yes, I do, I said. 'Please write to your congressmen, write to your senators immediately to stop military aid to Pakistan. Your arms and ammunitions are being used to kill innocent unarmed civilians of Bangladesh. Please ask your president to put pressure on Pakistan to stop genocide in Bangladesh."

He wrote that he reached Washington on 28 March to participate in the Bengali protest program in Washington on 29 March.

"That afternoon, we all gathered at the steps of the US House of Congress to demonstrate. I brought all my festoons. Bengalis came from distant places. Washington and New York had the biggest groups until Bengalis from Detroit arrived. I was surprised to see so many Bengalis from Detroit. Most of them were Sylheti workers from Detroit factories."

Professor Yunus also wrote- 'It worked like magic. The demonstration on the steps of Capitol Hill was a grand affair. We were noticed by US legislators. Congressional aides took time to be briefed on the situation and our demands. The news media was especially active; television cameras covered the rally and took on-the-spot interviews, and news reporters had a field day."

He further wrote, "30 March 1971: Shamsul Bari and I were given the responsibility of visiting all the embassies, meeting the ambassadors or their representatives, explaining our cause, and requesting recognition of Bangladesh as an independent state. It was a very interesting experience for both of us. We went to many embassies in one day".

Since the formation of the Citizens' Committee, Dr Yunus and other Bangladeshis had been running the Bangladesh Information Center to gather support for the liberation war in the United States. He used to publish the 'Bangladesh Newsletter' from his home in Nashville.

Prof Yunus wrote, "Shamsul Bari became its secretary general. He published the first issue of the Bangladesh Newsletter. I took it over from him and started publishing the newsletter regularly from my Nashville apartment at 500 Paragon Mills Road. My apartment virtually became the communication centre. The phone would never stop ringing whenever I returned from my long campaigning trips. Calls came from all over North America and the UK. All Bengalis in North America wanted to know every detail of the war every day".

"Through the efforts of the Bengalis in Washington, a 'Bangladesh Information Center' was set up near the hill to do the lobbying in the House and the Senate. I took up the responsibility of running the Information Center for the initial period and then went on the road to organize teach-in workshops in university campuses all over the United States, where we also set up Friends of Bangladesh Committees."

Dr Yunus continued in his book: "During those nine months we drew a very clear picture of the future Bangladesh in our minds, which became sharper and more vivid with each passing day. We wanted to uphold democracy, to establish the majesty of the will of the people which would be expressed in a free and fair election. We wanted to ensure people's right to fashion their lives as they wanted. We wanted people to be free from poverty. We dreamed of a life of happiness and prosperity for all citizens".

He further wrote that "When on 16 December 1971, Bangladesh won its war of independence, I was eager to return and help rebuild my country. The war had taken a heavy toll. Three million Bangladeshis were killed, ten million had left the country to find safety in neighbouring India and this created enormous refugee camps of misery and destitution. Millions more became victims of rape and other atrocities committed by the Pakistani army. By the time the war was over, Bangladesh was a devastated country. The economy was totally shattered. Millions of people needed to be rehabilitated. I felt that I had to go back and participate in the nation-building. I thought I owed it to myself."

Later, Dr Yunus returned to Bangladesh and was appointed to the government's Planning Commission.

He afterwards established the Grameen Bank for the welfare of the marginalized people who were backward in the society.

Dr. Yunus has been working since childhood with the vision of social change and humanitarian service. Because of that vision, he joined the Liberation War, and in the same way, he established Grameen Bank.

Talking to BSS, Grameen Bank Chairman and North South University Vice Chancellor Professor Abdul Hannan Chowdhury said Professor Yunus being imbued with patriotism while teaching in the United States in 1971, became vocal in favor of Bangladesh's independence.

"Prof Yunus organised Bengalis for the Liberation War and raised funds. He returned to the country after independence. The purpose of his return to the country was to join humanitarian service and work for the marginalised people," he said.

Abdul Hannan Chowdhury has been working with Nobel Peace Prize-winning economist Dr. Yunus on Grameen Bank and microfinance for a long time.

He said Dr. Yunus always liked to work with the vision of social change and humanitarian service.

"Just as that vision inspired him to participate in the Liberation War, it also encouraged him to establish Grameen Bank. Grameen Bank was established with the goal of changing the lives of the poor, helpless, especially women, in independent Bangladesh. The bank now has 10,666,000 members", he added.​

 

[Saif]

You’re in for defeat if you oppose ‘71

Adviser Mahfuj Alam yesterday said that those who oppose the Liberation War have historically been defeated for standing against the oppressed people of Bangladesh and are destined to face the same fate in future.

www.thedailystar.net

You’re in for defeat if you oppose ‘71
Says Adviser Mahfuj

Photo: Facebook/Mahfuj Alam

Adviser Mahfuj Alam yesterday said that those who oppose the Liberation War have historically been defeated for standing against the oppressed people of Bangladesh and are destined to face the same fate in future.

To do politics here, one must recognise the nation's bloody struggle for independence and the birth of Bangladesh, he said in a Facebook post.

"Criticise what happened after the Liberation War. Analyse history -- no problem there. Even debates on what transpired during the war are acceptable. However, all discussions must begin by acknowledging the Liberation War itself.

"For example, we can discuss Sheikh Mujib's transformation into a fascist. He was indeed a fascist. However, like many other national leaders, his contribution to the birth of Bangladesh is undeniable. Therefore, we will give Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, pre-1972, his due importance."

Mahfuj said, "Some freedom fighters may have become fascist, Islamophobic, or murderous, but the Liberation War itself was a struggle of the masses. The actions of some freedom fighters cannot invalidate or undermine the Liberation War or its participants. Doing so would be treasonous against the foundation of the state!

"We often forget that the first decade after the Liberation War was marked by a struggle between fascist Mujibist freedom fighters and patriotic, anti-Indian freedom fighters. However, even the most anti-imperialist among them never dared to reject the Liberation War itself... "

He termed the 2024 uprising a continuation of the Liberation War's historical legacy.

"This uprising was against the 'fascist Mujibist project' following the war, against BAKSAL 2.0. However, it reclaimed the Liberation War from the Mujibist project and the Sheikh family."

Mahfuj also said, "Pro-Bangladesh forces must align with pro-Liberation War values. It is true that many freedom fighters later became fascist collaborators. Today, they have been defeated by students and the masses. Similarly, those opposing the Liberation War will continue to be defeated for standing against the oppressed people of Bangladesh.

"Do not stand against history. We must unconditionally and unequivocally accept the legacy of '71 and '24 and move forward together to protect the nation from division."​