54 freedom fighters from Jahangirnagar University honoured by ‘Smriti 71’

An organisation named ‘Smriti 71’ has documented 54 freedom fighters associated with Jahangirnagar University who took part in the 1971 Liberation War, organising an event titled ‘Jahangirnagar in the Liberation War’ to recognise their contributions and preserve their legacy.

The event was held at the Liberation War Museum in Agargaon, Dhaka, on Friday afternoon (November 13). Nine freedom fighters who attended the programme received commemorative crests in recognition of their contributions.

All attendees stood to pay tribute to them. Organisers said the crests would also be delivered to other surviving freedom fighters and the families of those who have passed away.

Jahangirnagar University began its journey on January 4, 1971, with 22 teachers and 150 students. It was formally inaugurated on January 12 that year. The Liberation War began just two months after the university's establishment. Several students from its first batch directly participated in the war.

Others who had joined the Liberation War while studying at school or college later enrolled at the university. Some of them subsequently served as teachers there.

The programme began with the national anthem, followed by a documentary highlighting the role of Jahangirnagar University's teachers and students in the Liberation War. Faruk H Khan, a former student of the university and one of the organisers of ‘Smriti 71’, delivered the welcome address.

Faruk H Khan said Jahangirnagar University had a deep connection with the Liberation War. Many students from its first batch had joined the war, while others pursued their studies at the university after taking part in the struggle.

Several teachers who contributed to the Liberation War have also been included in the organisation's compiled list.

He said the initiative to document the freedom fighters began with efforts by former students of the university. Earlier, an alumni association had honoured 33 freedom fighters. Building on that list, the organisers conducted direct discussions with freedom fighters and verified information from various sources, identifying 54 names so far.

However, the organisation does not consider the list final. Faruk said further research and verification could lead to the inclusion of additional names. Any information found to be incorrect could also be corrected or removed.

Organisers clarified that ‘Smriti 71’ is not an institution authorised to verify or certify the status of freedom fighters. Based on information collected from various sources, the organisation contacted the individuals concerned and invited them to the programme.

Arrangements have also been made to correct any discrepancies in the list. The organisers emphasised that the organisation has no affiliation with any political party.

A cultural segment was also arranged to highlight the spirit and history of the Liberation War. It featured patriotic songs, songs from Swadhin Bangla Betar Kendra and poetry recitations.

The organisers said the main objective of the initiative was to bring the history of the Liberation War to younger generations and preserve the contributions of freedom fighters associated with Jahangirnagar University.