DHAKA: India on Saturday recalled the historic radio broadcast of former Bangladesh President Zia-ur-Rahman, in which he, invoking Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, proclaimed the country's independence and called upon the people to resist the Pakistan army amid a military crackdown marked by widespread killings and mass atrocities.
45th Death Anniversary Commemoration
On the occasion of Zia's 45th death anniversary, India remembered Zia, father of current PM Tarique Rahman, and his famous radio address of March 1971, describing him as one of the bravest sons of the nation.
"As the people of Bangladesh gather today in memory of one of their nation's bravest sons - Shaheed President Zia-ur-Rahman, Bir Uttam - we recall his famous radio address of March 1971, which electrified the masses, inspired them on a path of resistance against oppression and led to national liberation," said the Indian High Commission in Dhaka in a message.
"Today, as then, India stands shoulder to shoulder with the people of Bangladesh in a saga of shared sacrifices and a common journey towards progress and prosperity," added the message.
Historical Context of the Broadcast
As Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman declared the independence of Bangladesh, resistance began in Chittagong city and many other areas. On behalf of Bangabandhu, Maj Zia-ur-Rahman, at 7:45pm on March 27, made a radio broadcast from Swadhin Bangla Betar Kendra in Kalurghat, north of Chittagong city.
This broadcast is widely regarded as a pivotal moment in the Bangladesh Liberation War, galvanizing the population to rise against the Pakistani forces. The Indian High Commission's message underscores the enduring bond between India and Bangladesh, rooted in shared history and mutual aspirations for peace and development.
