More wre in 1971...

Return to Akhaura
In the midst of such an excitement and worries I passed the night. When it was dawn, I called Rafique to get up from bed. We had to return to Akhaura quickly. Within a few minutes some of the students appeared before us. Then and there I requested them to bid us farewell. They did not want us to leave without breakfast. That is what they requested us to wait. But in some way we forcibly took farewell from the students explaining that we should have to repart our freedom fighters quickly the fact or out arrival at Agartala and the progress of our discussion with the leaders of Agartila. Some of the students helped us to reach the border. That time we returned lo our country through the check post in the presence of the Security Forces. The Security Forces shook our hands and bade us farewell. Entering into the homeland we showed our allegiance to the gratefulness of the inhabitant of Agartala. We would remember forever their affections and behaviour towards us by some unknown students.
On returning to Akhaura I narrated my group of friends in details the experiences of my journey to Agartala, took decision to form...

On returning to Akhaura I narrated my group of friends in details the experiences of my journey to Agartala, took decision to from quickly a group and to go again to Agartala for taking training and collection of arms. All freedom loving young man did not gain menial preparation at that time to go to India. Besides they had no knowledge of warfare. They were very busy to resist the Pakistani forces with the stones of Railway line, bamboo sticks and two or three guns. That is way the number of our members did not increase. Therefore at that time we had to engage ourselves to take training locally and preparation of battle.

Preparation for battle in the free area.
In the free area, preparation for battle was going on in full swing. The symptoms of readiness were prevailing all around. There was much enthusiasm among the youths. It was the aim to free the land from the Pakistani aggressors, to defend their attacks and to take revenge. Till that time our area was free. The Bengali soldiers of Bengal Regiment, East Pakistan Rifles (EPR), the members of Police, students and general people took position in the free areas of Brahmanbaria, Ashuganj. Akhaura and Kasba. I also joined them and started resistance war. Brahmanbaria and its neighbouring vast areas ware then under control of the freedom fighters. To keep these areas in control we had to work hard day and night like vigilant guards. So far I could remember that in the beginning of April one of my brother MA. Hannan came to Akhaura and met me with a Chinese rifle. Hannan was Flight Sergeant of Pakistan Air Force. His duty was to train the soldiers of the air force. In March he came on leave to his house from West Pakistan. His house was at my neighboring house in Chanpur village under Machhihata union under Brahmanbaria Sadar thana. Hannun told me that EPR and Bengali Jeans should be taken here from borders and mixed with the main force of freedom fighters. I came here with that direction from Maj. Khaled Musharraf. You should come with me and you to help me.
In one rickshaw we two reached an FPR camp at Azampur Singerbeel situated near to Tippera border north, of Akhaura. There Sergeant Hannan explained to Subedar Major of EPR about our arrival. He replied that he would not be able to leave the border without written order of Maj. Khaled Mosharraf. Getting no alternative we had to come back. After that incidence brother Hannan did not further tell me anything. Of course, all members of EPR ultimately joined the main forces of freedom fighters and participated in liberation war. After the Tall of Akhaura I went to my village and could not tract out brother Hannan. Because he went again to West Pakistan to join his service. This way Hannan saved his services in Pakistan army. Here gaining strength the Bengali army became ready to defend the free area under the leadership of Maj. Khaled Mosharraf.We some young men joined with that force.
We took arms in hand; preparation for battle was going on day and night. Again the task of digging bunker, miscellaneous technique of war and self-defence strategy were going on. Before this, after declination of Bangabandhu on 7th March, we took training of battle as mentioned earlier This time I did not lag behind from any sorts of training including supply of ammunition from the ammunition boxes. The tension in the area gradually had been increasing. I used to go to Brahmanbaria from Akhaura by railway trolley and returned with miscellaneous weapons necessary for resistance and self-defence. Brahamanbaria town was the headquarters for preparatory works of our battle.
Tension was prevailing in the Comilla Cantonment before mass killing of 25th March. Although pressure was created upon me Bengali solders to surrender the arms, the members of the armed forces under the leadership of Major Khaled Mosharraf refused lo surrender the arms. Failing to cherish the evil desire, the Pak commandant ordered Major Khaled Mosharraf to resist the fictitious attack of Indian Naxal forces in Shamshemagar border. Most probably cither on 22nd or 23rd March Major Khaled Moshairaf with his subordinate soldiers of 4th East Bengal Regiment left Comilla Cantonment for Snamshcmagar together
With arms and ammunition and 2’’_3’’ mortars and faced resistance from the crowds while crossing over Brahmanbaria for Sylhet. In the meantime the 4th Bengal Regiment under Pak Col. Khizir Hayal Khan took control and possession in Brahmanbaria. There was Bengali and Punjabi soldiers also in the battalion.

Curfew breaks in Brahmanbaria.

Curfew breaks in Brahmanbaria.
The news of barbarous attack of Pakistani forces at Dhaka on 25th March reached Brahmanbaria on the same night. The general people overwhelmingly participated in the procession in
the town and built up resistance in the streets and on all points by setting barricades. Pak Colonel Khizir, Hayat Khan, Major Sadeque Newaz, Lt. Amzad Sayed Declared Curfew in the town and ordered to open fire on the crowds. But the general people broke curfew and led procession in the town and held street meetings. The local Awami League leader AM AzamBhuion, Lutful Hye Sachchu and student leader Amanul Hoque Sentu. Zahangir Osman, Shafique Khan, Humyun Kabir, Kutubuddin etc. led such resistance movement. Although Pak Colonel Khiziir Hayat Khan ordered to open fire on the curfew breakers, the Bengali Officers and soldiers overlooked that order.
On 71 March, the Bengali soldiers under the leadership of Captain Shafait Jamil, Gnffar, Lt. Harun, Lt. Mahbub and Ld. Kabir revolted and took control of camp by arresting the Pak armies including Pak Colonel Khizir Hayat Khan and Major Sadeque Newaz. By the angry attitudes on that day 5/6 Pak armies including Lt. Amjad Sayeed were killed. Meanwhile Major Khaled Mosharraf with some soldiers of 4th Bengal regiment returned from Shamshernagar and joined the revolted Bengali soldiers. The local Police, EPR Members of the Ansars took part with them. The headquarters of 4th Bengal regiment was set up at Brahmanbarta town.
At the same time the general people and Bengali Soldiers of East
Bengal Regiment jointly started fierce life and death battle against Pak Armies at Joydevpur. Major Shafiullah gave leadership in this fierce battle. Both sides had to suffer heavy casualties. Getting no alternatives Major Shafiullah, with a greater portion of army of 2nd Bengal Regiment, made an attempt to start via Mymensingh to attack Dhaka Cantonment. Getting that news Major Khaled Mosharraf prevented Major Shafiulla from such suicidal decision. Thereafter Major Shafiullah became united with Major .Khaled Mosharraf together with his battalion and built up a Strong resistance force. Kazi Rakibuddin, the then Sub-Divisional Officer of Brahmanbaria, Sub-Divisional Police Officer Mr. Azharul Islam, local leaders and volunteers gave wholehearted assistance by providing food and supplies to the Bengali Soldiers.
By that time, one battalion of Pak army tried to enter into Brahmanbaria from Comilla Cantonment. The freedom fighters resisted their movement. At the outskirts of the town Near Kurulia Khal the Bengal Regiment and the general people engaged in resistance battle against Pak forces. In the battle some soldiers with a captain were killed. Thereafter from Brahmanbria to Comilla the students and general people created resistance by throwing trees on, and digging earths in, the streets.

Preparation to resist the Pakistani soldiers at Kasba, Brahmanbaria and Ashuganj
Arrangement was going on to resist the Pakistani soldiers at Kasba, Brahmanbaria and Ashugonj. In order to resist the Pakistani forces, several strong defensive positions of the freedom fighters were built up at several places.
We were very busy at various places to resist the Pakistan forces namely, in the rails, roads and rivers of Narsingdi, Bhairab. Ashuganj etc., in the south Kasba-Gangasagar rail and by Road the Pakistani army from Comilla cantonment and in the north­west Pakistani army from Dhaka. The great excitement prevailed among the students and general people including the members of Bengal Regiment. At last the Pakistani forces started three front attacks. In the face of modern weapons of the enemies it became very difficult for us to East long. Possibilities of massive damages of lives and assets gradually began to increase. Therefore we had to retreat on radical grounds. The free areas of Brahrmanbaria and Akhuura fell down and came under the control of the Pakistan army. Again we prepared ourselves for fighting. In guerilla tactics we began to inflict heavy damages on the lives and assets of the Pak armies one after another. After retreat we set up camp at Teliapara tea garden At last we had to abandon the camp also.
In the midst of heavy firing that time crowd began to make slogans "Joy Bangla" from all sides. As if such sky touching lofty sounds trembled the sky and winds. The sound of Joy Bangta of 1971 was dear to all women, men and children. Facing the bayonets and Rifles the brave Bengalese sacrificed there lives smilingly uttering Joy Bangla. In India during anti-British movement, the slogan Bande Mataram was the only successful in creating such reaction.
That day we began to advance with the slogan "Joy Bangla" and whatever we had. Some body had Kutch, spears and somebody had bamboo stick. I also entered into the battle with one 303 rifle. We had not sufficient arms and ammunition. On the other hand the enemy had sufficient ammunitions and as a result they began to fire within some intervals. And sounds of Joy Bangla of the general people were coming from all sides.
Before the advent of dawn the sounds of firing were stopped from the enemy sides. Carefully we went to the camp from three sides, fly the blow of bullets the enemies retreated and fled away. Before retreating they blew up the go-downs of arms and ammunition. By capturing the camp we did not get any living body except some left out dead bodies of non-Bengali members of non-bengali members of East Pakistan Rifles and destroyed arms. The wall of the go down and its inner condition became disarrayed. But did Pakistani members of EPR lied away through open path by swimming the lake. We captured the camp and hoisted the flag of Independent Bangladesh. Later on we came to know that at the time of retreating the living soldiers of EPR killed some alive villagers in the streets by anger and excitement.

Preparation to resist the Pakistani soldiers at Kasba. Brahmanbaria and Ashuganj.
Arrangement was going on to resist the Pakistani soldiers at Kasba. Brahmanbaris and Ashuganj. In order to resist the Pakistani forces, several strong defensive positions of file freedom fighters were built up at several plates. We were very busy at various places to resist the Pakistan forces namely, in the rails, roads and rivets of Narsingdi. Bhairab. Ashuganj etc., in the south Kasba-Gangasagar rail and by Road the Pakistani army form comilla cantonment and in the north-west Pakistani array From Dhaka. The great excitement prevailed among the students and general people including the members of Bengal Regiment. At last the Pakistani forces started three from attacks. In the face of modern weapons of the enemies it became very difficult for us to last long. Possibilities of massive damages of lives and assets gradually began to increase. Therefore we had to retreat on tactical grounds. The free areas of Brahmanharia and Akhaura fell down and came under the control of me Pakistan army. Again we prepared ourselves for fighting. In guerilla tactics we began to inflict heavy damages on the lives and assets of the Puk armies one after another. After retreat we set up camp at Teliapara tea garden. At last we had to abandon that camp also.

Akhaura battle and attack of Pakistani army and resistance by EPR soldiers and freedom fighters
In the meantime the news of secret meeting of Awami league leaders held at Agrtala circuit house on 12 April reached 10 the aggressor Pakistani forces. In that meeting the Independent revolutionary Government was formed. Therefore, without killing time the Pakistani forces signed life and death attempts to capture Brahmanbaria-Akhaura.
On 18 April was evening From all sides the resistance enclosures were made surrounding Akhaura. The railway bridge of Gangashagar was blown up to The aggression of the enemy. En the north south the young fighters took possession in the bunkers to resist Pak forces. In the north the Bengali EPR soldiers targeted machine gun towards the railway bridge on the Titas river. In one bunker two Bengal regiment soldiers remained engaged all along setting one heavy machine gun With them I also took possession with one 300 rifle. The night was soundless. Our careful attention as on the front side. There was possibility of attack from the north and we would resist them.
At first the aggressors advanced along the railway towards the south 10 Kasba via Gangasagar railway station and arrived at the Outskirts of Akhaura, They started attacks targeting our location. The freedom fighters gave all out obstructions on the onward advancement of aggressing forces. In that fighting about three hundred soldiers of Pakistan army were killed- the next day EPR soldiers and freedom fighters under the leadership of Captain Gaffar made attacks upon the Pakistani army and killed 20/25 soldiers. Yet we could not resist Pakistani force. Though the freedom fighters had been fighting bravely confronting very modern weapons and resisting throughout the day, the Pakistani forces entered into Akhaura in the dark of the night. In that fighting, some freedom fighters were killed. I knew some of them. They took part in the freedom fighting to save the motherland. they were not trained soldiers. The country became independent in one day, but today nobody remembered about sacrifice and dedication of those freedom fighters for the nation.
The night became deeper. We were ready targeting machine guns towards north. By whatever means we would resist the Pakistani forces, It was dead night. There was no sound. The sounds or riling were coming slowly. I was thinking, perhaps the fighting was going on in the south with freedom fighters. My presumption was that Pakistani forces could not in any way enter Akhaura breaking the strong defense of the freedom fighters. We were in the north side of be vast area in between Railway station, colony etc.
Surrounded by Pak Army.

The darkness is on all sides. Suddenly the rounds or firing were coming from nearby places. I was thinking for confrontation. But no…, the sound of filing was just on our backside. It seemed that it as coming to hit our back. The two solders of Bengal regiment put off their uniform. Simply they were wearing handloom napkin and underwear and even threw out even threw out the machine gun in the bunker. Thereafter the were going downward in darkness towards the lake in the west. Before I could guess they said "Pee". I understood that the Pak armies surrounded us, I was than at a loss. The death like monster was coming towards me very quickly. I could not understand. what should do. Only I remembered that there were my father, mother, brother, sister all behind me in The railway colony. I nine away towards my house. The road was only dark hut also empty. I guessed that a man was coming cowards this side with a big trunk on his head. I asked whereabouts of my house. He replied that. There was none in that side. Pak armies were coming by that side. They were setting fire and burning everything 10 ashes. You should not go, Otherwise you would be killed- All people of this area went towards Kharampur, Perhaps all members of your house went to Kharampur-I was startled. We had our relations at Kharampur. Perhaps my father would go to that side. With me intention of going to Kharampur I proceeded through the colony of north and cast. Crossing the railway nine in the east was the way to go to Kharampur, Still the morning was not full. There was indistinct darkness. When I went near the railway line, I heard, firing on both sides. I saw A group of Pakistani Army was proceeding from south to the north towarrds the bridge on the Titas river. I could not cross the railway line. I look shelier behind a wall. There was no human being at all. Some bullets of the Pak army also hit this wall also, When the Pak armies proceeded towards north, I looked back at the southern side. It appeared that another group of Pak armies had been advancing the Some way by tiring both sides. On their return they burnt away the Akhaura Railway station. Their heavy shells killed some freedom fighters and innocent people. They were not getting down from the railway track. I perhaps could not write this book, if they would get down from the railway track. Before reaching the 2nd group of Pakistan armies. I crossed the railway line by running and got pain falling in the sloping of the ground in the eastern side of the railway track. Somehow I raised and managed to reach behind the colony with heavy pain in my back. I observed that many men were also proceeding towards Kharampur like me. I followed them. Even I forgot about pains and bleeding of my body.

Fall of Akhaura and air attack on Brahmanbaria
The aggressors were coming quickly side, I was going to Kharampur along the bank lake. Slowly the darkness was. becoming lighter. The shy was becommig clear. In the light Of dawn I could see the men with their families were fleeing by many boats in the lake. When I further advanced, I thought only one boat was eagerly waiting by the side of the lake. The passengers of one was very anxious and one was standing with one leg in the boat and one leg in the land. I proceeded further and full the man was none but my father. I realized, as if he was waiting so long for me with eagerness and anxiety. Seeing me, my father ran towards me. caught my hand. He pushed me in the boat by rebuking and ordered the boatman to set on. The boat began to float. I realised that my father felt anxiety for me. So he could not bear his anger. My mother and my little sister aleya wept for very much Everybody was panicky by anxiety and fear. I fell very much for Aleya, because she is no more with us. In her tender age she left the world. I was silent and statue for anger, sorrow and pain by losing the battle. I could not stand against the modern deadly weapons of the aggressors, I accepted the challenge to free my dear motherland. which is interlaced with the memories of my childhood. But due to tactful reasons I had to retreat.
When the boatman asked my father about the destination, my father replied to proceed towards west, if I had to die, I would die in my own house. Since then my father lived they’re up to death in 1994. He served in the British railway department. He observed anti-British movement, the partition of India and creation of Pakistan. He observed language movement, observed freedom fighting and at last observed the liberation war of Bangladesh. He was retired from service in 1972. He did not object To my participation in 1971 freedom fighting. Rather he smilingly allowed me to lake part in the freedom fighting. My mother also did not object. In 1994 my father and mother left for heaven within the gap of only 4 days,
Soon after the fall Akhaura, the Pakistani forces started air attack on Brahamanbaria.
The aggressors made desperate attempts by attacking Akhaura, Ashuganj and Bhairab simultaneously both in the land in the water The Bengali solders fought bravely against the Pakistani forces, hut they had to retreat in the face of modern weapons and air attacks of the Parisian forces. Captain Nasim and Captain Matiur had to retreat and shift their headquarters from Bhairab and Ashuganj. To avoid huge damages and bloodsheds the Bengali soldiers of East Bengli Regiment and EPR, stationed at Bhrahmanbaria, left Bhrahmanbaria and retreated towards Teliapara. They set up their headquarters there in the Tea garden. The lively Brahmanbaria town turned in to a town of ghosts. After- two days the Pakistani forces took control of Brahmanbaria town and burnt to ashes the markets, shops, the houses and properties etc. and short to death whoever they saw.

Declaration of major Zia from Chittagong Radio Station

Declaration of major Zia from Chittagong and the message of Independence made on 25th March 1971.

Indeed, the martyr and freedom fighters have our purest feelings and emotions. Days before the dawn of victor,' the nation's teachers, physicians and journalist were picked up. killed and thrown into the marshes of Mirpur and Rayer Bazr in the Dhaka City. A large number of university professors were killed just at the beginning of the Liberation War, on the night of 25 March 1971 when the then Pakistani Army cracked down to inclement its Operation Searchlight on the absolutely unarmed civilian masses of the then East Pakistan. Bangadandhu Sheikh mujidur Rahaman, then the undisputed leader was Arrested, while his political colleagues went underground and through large massacres the occupation army of Pakistan unleashed a reign of terror and genocide. At the appropriate time Ziaur Rahaman, then a major in the East Bangal Regiment revolted and declared independence which was very much inspiring for the people to fight back the enemy. Major Ziaur Raman achieved greatness in that as an army Major at that time, disregarding fatal hazard he played an extraordinarily pivotal role at a critical juncture of our national history by declaring Independence of Bangladesh over the Swadhin Bangla Biplobi Betar Kendra (later named Swadhin Bangla Betar Kendra), the radiobroadcasting center at Kalurghat. Chittgong, on 27th March 1971. And won the hearts of millions of Bangladeshis who were then groaning in anguish and agony und were then subjected to genocide, rape, arson, massacre and all the ugly faces of brutalities perpetrated by the occupation army of Pakistan.

The Government of the Sovereign Stale Of Bangladesh"On behalf of our Great Leader, the Supreme Commander of Bangladesh. Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, we hereby proclaim the independence of Bangladesh.

"And that the Government headed by Sheikh Mujibur Rahman has already been formed. It is further proclaimed that Sheikh Mujibur Rahman is the sole leader of the elected representatives of the seventy-five million people of Bangladesh, and the government headed by him is the only legitimate government of the people of the Independent Sovereign State of Bangladesh, which is legally and constitutionally formed, and is worthy of being recognized by all the governments of the world.

I, therefore, appeal on behalf of our Great Leader Sheikh Mujibur Rahman to the governments of all democratic countries of the world, specially the Big Powers and the neighbouring countries to recognize the legal government of Bangladesh and take effective steps to immediately stop the awful genocide that has been earned on by the army of occupation from Pakistan.

The guiding principle of the new stale will be first, neutrality, second, peace, and, third, friendship to all and enmity to none.

"May Allah help us. Joy Bangla."

Major Ziaur Rahman
27'" March. 1971"

(This is the text of the message broadcast on March 28. 1971, by Maj. Ziaur Rahman, at 7.30 p.m. on the previous day he had declared independence in a similar message broadcast, also from Kalrghat Radio Station.)
We received another message of Independence from Bangabandhu Sheikh Mtijibur Rahman, the father of the Nation. On 25" March 1971. The message is as under:
The Pakistan Army has suddenly attacked the E.P.R. base at Peelktiana and Rajarbag Police Line and killed citizens. Street battles are going on in every street of Dacca-Chittagong.
I appeal to the nations of the world for help. Our freedom fighters are gallantly fighting the enemy to flee 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 Police, the E.P.R., the Bengal Regiment and the Ansars to stand by you and to fight.
Drive out the last enemy from the holy soil of our motherland. Convey this message to all Awami league leaders, workers and other patriots and lovers of freedom.
May Allah bless you. Joy Bangia...
Sheikh Mujibur Rahman
25th March 1971
By Taking attempts several times and keeping my fingers in the knob of radio throughout the day on 28th March I could hear the limited program of independent Bangla Betar center, the description of which I mentioned earlier. The same condition was on 29th and 30th Match.

Another declaration or Major Zia
Bui from date of 31st March, the independent Bangla Betar (Shadhin Bangla Beter Kendr) all along remained silent. But on 31.3.1971 we heard another declaration of Maj. Zia. The of the declaration is as under:

Declaration
Punjabis have used 3rd commando Battalion in Chittagang City Area lo subdue the Valiant freedom fighters of Sadhin Bangla. But they have been thrown back and many of them have been killed.

Punjabis have been extensively using F-80 Aircrafts to kill the Civilian strongholds and vital points, they are killing the civilians, men, women and children brutally. So far at least two thousands of Bengali civilians have been killed in Chittagong area alone.

The Sadhin Bangla Liberation Army is pushing the punjabi Army from one place to the other.
At present the punjabis have utilized al least two Brigades of Army, Navy and Air Force. It is in fact of combined operation.

I once again request tbe United Nations and the Big powers to intervene and physically come to our aid. Delay will mean massacre of additional millions. SD/=Ziaur Rahman
I tried to connect the foreign radio center. At night I got connection of All India Radio. I heard that in the proposal moved in the Parliament. Sreemati Indira Gandhi blamed for barbarous aggression of West Pakistani soldiers in Bangladesh and invited the people and the governments of all the countries of the world to create pressure for resisting Pakistani armed forces from mass killing. Unanimously accepted the proposal was as follows:

The Parliament expresses profound grief and deep concern about the recent events happening in East Bengal. The armed forces led from West Pakistan jumped upon the people of Ease Bengal to ruthlessly suppress the claims, hopes and aspiration of the latter by a massive aggression.

Instead of giving honour to the will of the people published undoubtedly in the general election held in Pakistan in 1970, the Pakistani Government decided to disobey the mandate of the people.

Pakistani Government not only refused to transfer the power to the peoples' representatives, but also prevented the National Parliament to perform the legitimate and sovereign I role without any legal basis. Adopting the naked power of armed forces, they used bayonet, machinegun, tank, cannon and fighter plane targeting the people of East Bengal.

The Government of India and Indian People always have tried to establish a peaceful, normal and friendly relationship will Pakistan and with this end in view have been working. Since the history, culture and hierarchal reciprocal ties of the people of this Sub-continent is very old, this assembly cannot sit idle at the terrific and awful tragic events happening near the border. The general people throughout the country expressed their undoubted resentment and hatred towards the unprecedented barbaric attitudes towards the innocent and armless people.
The historical national awakening of seven and a half crore people of East Bengal will at last achieve success - this meeting records firm confidence in success on that matter. This meeting further ensures them to that effect that their struggle and dedication will always gain heartfelt sympathy and people of India."
This decision of Indira Gandhi spread like electricity all around. We all got encouragement by heart and the news helped us greatly to erase our helplessness to a great extent. We got strength with this thinking that the great neighbour was with us.

I remembered about my tour in Agartala on 27" March. The Congress Secretary told that day that it was not possible on their part to supply arms without permission of Indian Government. We realized from this news of All India Radio that all out assistance of Indian Government was imminent. The liberation struggle of Bengali nation with Pakistan would continue and Insha Allah we would be successful.

Gradually the days were passing. A news reached Akhaura in the night of 12" April. The news was very important. Thai night a secret meeting was held with the top leaders of Awami League in Agartala circuit house. Though 1 could not get the decision of that meeting, but 1 was excited with joy with the holding of such meeting. Of course we tame to learn afterwards that the revolutionary Government was formed. Since Agartala was the border town, the tight secrecy was maintained about the meeting for the sake of security.

Possession of EPR Camp at Akhaura.

Agartala is the capital of Tippera State of India. Its frontier area is Akhaura. An important junction of East Pakistan Railway. Akhaura. Being adjacent to Tippera. is also heaven for the smugglers. There is a camp office of EPR ac Akhaura frontier. They controlled this region from here. Prior to beginning of battle, non-Bengali members of EPR took possession of the regional office at Akhaura. There were storage of huge arms and ammunition to defend the borders. Till then Akhaura was free and the borders were in control of the freedom fighters.
We planned to free EPR camp. Therefore we formed a combined force comprising our Bengali members of EPR, Asnsar and Bengal Regiment. The local students and people were also linked with that force. To avoid bloodshed, first we decided to invite

the members of the EPR of the camp to surrender. Accordingly we sent a bold Bengali EPR Habilder with while flag at hand proposal for surrender. After one hour he returned and informed us that they would not surrender. Getting no alternative we prepared ourselves for attack. The EPR camp looked like an island. About in all sides around the camp there were low lands with water, canals and beels. There were an old building and some big tin go-downs. In the British period there were shed office of British jute company and jute godowns. From this side a branch of Titas river is flowing. By this naval route British and local merchants used to deal in jute business. During rainy season big size boats came and seaplane float on the river, which 1 saw many times in my childhood. But there was no such youthful charm of Akhaura now. The seaplane of the company did not come and touch this branch river. As if the river also lost her youthfulness and became lean and thin. Akhaura was then somehow a small river port. Many godowns and office were established centering jute businesses. Two or three signs are still standing as evidence of that time.

Rolling afternoon the sun was selling in the west. We were gathering ourselves slowly from the three sides of the island with arms and ammunition. After crossing evening, the night became deeper, and before midnight we began attack upon the camp possessed by non-Bengali members of East Pakistan Rifles. The attack was started from three sides. The other side was entirely beel and vast crop field. Our heavy arms began to roar, Reply was also coming in double.

In the midst of heavy firing that time the crowd began to make slogans "Joy Bangla" from all sides. As if such sky touching lofty sounds trembled the shy and winds. The sound of Joy Bangla of 1971 was dear to al! women, men and children. Facing the bayonets and Rifles the brave Bengalese sacrificed their lives smilingly uttering Joy Bangla In India during anti-British movement, the slogan "Bandc Malaram" was the only successful in creating such reaction.
That day we began to advance with the slogan "Joy Bangla" and whatever we had. Some body had Kulch, spears and somebody had bamboo stick. 1 also entered into the battle with one 303 rifle- We had not sufficient arms and ammunition. On the other hand the enemy had sufficient ammunitions and as a result they began to fire within some intervals. And sounds of Joy Bangla of the general people were coming from all sides.

Before the advent of dawn the sounds of firing were stopped from the enemy sides. Carefully we went to the camp from three sides. By the blow of bullets the enemies retreated and fled away. Before retreating they blew up the go-downs of arms and ammunition. By capturing the camp we did not get any living body except some left out dead bodies of non-Bengali members of East Pakistan Rifles and destroyed arms. The wall of the go-down and its inner condition became disarrayed. But the Pakistani members of EPR fled away through open path by swimming the take. We captured the camp and hoisted the flag Of Independent Bangladesh. Later on we came to know that at the time of retreating the living soldiers of EPR killed some alive villagers in the streets by anger and excitement.

Proclamation of Martial law (Yahya Khan)

Proclamation of Martial law and taking over power by Mr. Agha Mohammad Yahya Khan.

Following countrywide hartal, procession and upsurge of the people of East Pakistan the President Field Marshal Ayub Khan had to step down and to hand over power lo Mr. Yuhya Khan through proclamation of martial law in the country. The Government felt lo realize that there was no alternative of democracy to run the country and to introduce the political system with one man-one vote.

Promulgation of the legal provisions for dissolution of one unit of West Pakistan and other legal provisions for the conduct of general elections:

The President and Chief Martial Law Administrator in his address to the nation on the 28th November, 1969, declared (that a legal frame work order for elections to the National and Provincial Assemblies and delimitation of constituencies for the purpose for such elections would be given by the 31st March, 1970; and that the province of West Pakistan would he dissolved and in its place new provinces would come into being; and for the purpose of making provisions in the said legal framework for elections to the National and Provincial Assemblies and delimitation of Constituencies for such elections, the president and Chief Martial Law Administrator, in pursuance. of the Proclamation of the 25th day of March. 1969, was pleased to make and promulgate the Province of West Pakistan (Dissolution) Order. 1970. The Order was published in die Pakistan Gazette. Extraordinary on March 30. 1970 and also Legal Framework Order. 1970 for the purpose of General Elections to a National Assembly of Pakistan commence on the 5th October, 1970 and for elections to the Provincial Assemblies to commence not later than the 22nd November, 1970 and for me constitution of a national Assembly for the purpose of making a Constitution.

For the conduct of elections to the National Assembly the Provincial Assemblies the Ministry of Law and Parliamentary Affairs published an Ordinance No. XIII of 1970 on July 9, 1970) published in the Gazette of Pakistan. Extraordinary dated July 10, 1970.

Ultimately the result of the general elections is such the Awami League under the leadership of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman won 162 seats of the National Assembly out of 167 local seats allotted seats for East Pakistan and the second majority party i.e. the Peoples Party under the leadership of Mr. Zulfiquer Ali Bhurto won 88 seats.


Bhutto's retort, threat and pleas after pleas of military junta for delay in transfer of power.

From the above results it may be seen that the political party Awami League won majority of scats. The National Assembly was summoned. But Mr. Bhutto's retort was that he would not allow him to become hostage on two fronts. He predicted that it' any West Pakistani Member of Parliament were to come to Dhaka, the Assembly would be turned into a slaughterhouse.

Mr. Bhutto added that if any were to participate in such a session countrywide agitation would be launched from Peshawar to Karachi and that every business would be shut down in protest Thereafter the rulets of the West Pakistan Wing made pleas after pleas and delayed transfer of power to the majority party headed by Sheikh Muzibur Rahman

Historical speech of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman on March 7, 1971.

the following historical speech of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, Father of the nation on March 7, 1971 will explain the activities, incidences and attitudes of the rulers of the west Pakistan Wing:

"My brothers........I have come before you today with a heavy heart....
All of you know how hard we have tried but, Sad 10 say, the streets of Dhaka, Chitiagong, Khulna. Rangpur and Jessore are spattered this day with the blood of my brothers - and the cry we hoar from the Bengali people is a cry for freedom, a cry for Survival, cry for our rights.

You are the ones who brought about an Awami League victory so you could see a constitutional government restored. The hope was that the elected representatives of the people, sitting in the National Assembly, would create a constitution that would assure the people of their economic, political and cultural emancipation.

But now, with great sadness in my heart, I look back on (he past 23 years of our history and see nothing but a history of the shedding of the blood of the Bengali people. Ours has been a history of continual lamentation, repealed blood shed and incessant tears.


We gave our blood in 1953; we won a mandate in 1954-but we were still not allowed to take up the reigns of this country. In 1958. Ayub Khan clamped Martial Law on our people and enslaved us for the next 10 years. In 1966, during the Six-Point Movement of the masses, many were the young men and women whose lives were stilled by government bullets.

After the downfall of Ayub, Mr. Yahya Khan took over with the promise that he would restore constitutional rule, that he would restore democracy and return power to the people.
We accepted that. But yon all know the events that look place after that...
I ask you. Are we the ones to blame?
As you know. I have been in contact with Mr. Yuhya Khan. As leader of the majority party in the National assembly, 1 asked him 10 sets February 15 as the day for its opening session. He did not accede to the request I made as leader of the majority party. Instead, he went along with the delay requested by the minority leader Mr. Bhutto and announced thal the Assembly would be convened on the 3rd March.

We accepted that, agreed to join the deliberations. I even went to the extent of saying that we, despite our majority, would still listen to any sound ideas from the minority, even if it was a lone voice. I committed myself to the support of anything to bolster the restoration of a constitutional framework.

When Mr. Bhutto came to Dhaka, we met. We talked. He left, saying that the doors to negotiation were still open. Moulana Noorani and Moulana Mufti were among those were among those West Pakistani parliamentarians who visited Dhaka and talked with me about an agreement on a constitutional framework.

I made it clear that I could not agree to any deviation from the Sill Points: That night rested with the people. Come, 1 said, let us sit down and resolve matters.
But Bhutto's retort was that he would not allow him to become hostage on two fronts. He predicted that if any West Pakistani members of Parliament were to come to Dhaka, the Assembly would be tamed into a slaughterhouse. He added that if any were to participate in such a session, countrywide agitation would he launched from Peshawar to Karachi and that every business would be shut down in protest.

I assured him that the Assembly would be convened and, despite the dire threats. West Pakistani leaders did come down to Dhaka. But suddenly, on March 1, the session was cancelled. There was an immediate outcry against this move by the people. I called for a hartal as a peaceful form of protest and the masses readily look to the streets in response.