1971 comes first, everything else after: Home Minister

The history of the 1971 Liberation War should not be conflated with any other history, Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed has said.

"1971 cannot be equated with any other history. 1971 comes first, everything else later. BNP does not deny anyone's contribution," he said.

The home minister made these remarks at a discussion organised by BNP at the Engineers Institution auditorium in the capital on Friday, marking the Great Independence and National Day.

He said the people of Bangladesh have known and heard for a long time that the declaration of independence was broadcast from Kalurghat Radio Station. He also commented that on March 27, then-Major Ziaur Rahman, as Provisional Head of the State, formally declared independence.

Salahuddin Ahmed said the government acknowledges the contributions of all those who were martyred and led the student-mass uprising.

"We do not want to snatch anyone's victory. Everyone must first honour the history of 1971 together. 1971 cannot be equated with any other history," he added.