Bangladesh observes 44th Victory Day with 31-gun salute, tributes to martyrs

Bangladesh on Tuesday observed its 44th Victory Day with due solemnity and offers of rich tribute to martyrs who had sacrificed their lives during the Liberation War of 1971 against Pakistan.

The day commenced with a 31-gun salute followed by tributes by President Abdul Hamid and Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina at the National Mausoleum in Savar early this morning.

A colourful parade was thereafter held from 10 a.m. local time, which saw the participation of freedom fighters, members of armed forces and other law enforcing agencies.

President Abdul Hamid presided over the parade held at the National Parade Square as chief guest. Premier Hasina was the special guest, reports the Daily Star.

On this day in 1971, East Pakistan, under leadership of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, won its emancipation and emerged as the independent state of Bangladesh.

Lt. Gen. A A K Niazi, who commanded the eastern command of the Pakistan Army then, surrendered with 93,000 soldiers to the allied forces comprising of freedom fighters and the Indian Army at the Suhrawardy Udyan in Dhaka following acceptance of defeat after a nine-month-long war that broke out in March of that year. India took part in the war from December 3 to December 16.

Three million people sacrificed their lives for freedom, while two lakh women were tortured and raped by Pakistani soldiers and their local collaborators like Razakars, Al-Badar and Al-Shams.

On Tuesday, the government and various political, social and cultural organisations have drawn up elaborate programmes, including discussions, rallies, processions, drama and Jatra (folk theatre), photo exhibitions, painting competitions and cultural functions to mark the day.

President Abdul Hamid, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia in separate messages greeted the nation on the auspicious occasion.