‘Ziaur Rahman’s declaration inspired the nation’s armed struggle’

President Mohammed Shahabuddin says Major Zia’s declaration of independence united and inspired the confused and hesitant nation, encouraging them to join the armed struggle and sacrifice their lives.

He made these remarks in a message issued ahead of ‘Genocide Day’, to be observed on Wednesday.

The President said, “25 March is the most brutal and tragic chapter in our national history.

During this genocide, the entire nation was left speechless and paralysed. On the night of 25 March, an official rebellion and armed resistance against the massacre began at the East Bengal Regiment in Chattogram, followed shortly by Major Zia’s declaration of independence from the Kalurghat radio station.

This united the confused and hesitant nation, made them immensely courageous, and inspired them to join the armed struggle and sacrifice their lives.

Thus began the armed resistance and the bloody Liberation War. After nine long months, victory was achieved at the cost of millions of lives.”

The President further said, “Today is 25 March, Genocide Day. On this night in 1971, the Pakistani occupation forces, under ‘Operation Searchlight’, carried out indiscriminate killings of unarmed and sleeping pro-liberation people.

At midnight, members of the Rajarbagh Police Lines and the then East Pakistan Rifles, along with students, teachers of Dhaka University, and countless innocent civilians across the country, fell victim to this brutal genocide.

On this day, I respectfully remember all the martyrs and express deep gratitude for their immense contribution.”

He said the younger generation must clearly understand both the horrific brutality of this history and the nation’s glorious achievements and heroism, and be inspired by them.

The President prayed for the eternal peace of the souls of all martyrs, including those of 25 March.