56th Independence Day: Nation pays tribute to Liberation War martyrs

Today is March 26, the 56th Great Independence and National Day. It is the most glorious day for the Bengali nation, the day when they broke the chains of subjugation and stood tall. On this day in 1971, after breaking the shackles of long subjugation, the message of establishing an independent state was delivered to the world. On this occasion, government, semi-government, autonomous and private bodies, as well as political and cultural organisations have arranged various programmes across the country. The day will be observed with due dignity and remembrance.

On this day in 1971, the armed liberation struggle formally began. In the early hours of March 26, the Pakistani army launched a genocidal crackdown. Subsequently, in a nine-month long life-and-death struggle against the indiscriminate killings, destruction and brutality of the Pakistani occupation forces, independent Bangladesh emerged at the cost of the sacrifice of three million martyrs. The entire nation today recalls with reverence the martyrs who sacrificed themselves for the country.

In the early hours of March 26, moments before his arrest by Pakistani forces, Bangabandhu declared independence and instructed the nation to fight with their last drop of blood to drive out the enemy. That message was disseminated across the country and abroad through wireless messages. Following Bangabandhu's declaration, the entire nation joined the united armed liberation struggle that very day. The reading of Bangabandhu's declaration of independence began from the Kalurghat radio station in Chattogram.

First, on the afternoon of March 26, local Awami League leader Abdul Hannan read out Bangabandhu's proclamation. On the evening of March 27, Major Ziaur Rahman, Deputy Commander of the 8th Bengal Regiment, declared independence on behalf of Bangabandhu.

After a nine-month bloody and fierce war, the independent sovereign state of Bangladesh emerged on the world map. The red and green flag of victory flew over the skies of Bengal on December 16, 1971. This victory was achieved through a life-or-death struggle and a sea of blood. Independence is therefore the greatest achievement of the Bangladeshi people.

On the occasion of the day, President Md Sahabuddin and Prime Minister Tarique Rahman have issued separate messages. In his message, the President said the extraordinary sacrifices of the valiant freedom fighters inspire us to move forward with resolute steps towards building a discrimination-free, justice-based and democratic modern Bangladesh. The goal of independence was political and economic freedom, establishing an exploitation-free society and human dignity, and consolidating the empowerment of people from all walks of life. We must fulfil the unfinished dreams of independence by ensuring equality, good governance, transparency and accountability in all spheres of state and society. It is our sacred duty to build a safe, happy and prosperous humane Bangladesh for the new generation.

He further said that the adverse effects of prolonged misrule, the global economic situation and the energy crisis are impacting the country and the nation. The government is moving forward with utmost sincerity and efficiency to overcome these situations and establish a self-reliant, dynamic and justice-based Bangladesh. At this time, strong national unity, empathy and patriotism are very important.

In his message, Prime Minister Tarique Rahman said March 26 is a glorious and historic day in our national life. On this day, I recall with deep reverence the nation's greatest sons, in exchange for whose sacrifices we received an independent and sovereign Bangladesh. At the same time, I recall with deep gratitude the valiant freedom fighters who participated in the Liberation War, the oppressed mothers and sisters, and all those who dedicated themselves to the struggle for independence, and pray for the salvation of all martyrs.

He said the Great Independence Day rekindles the spirit of courage, sacrifice and patriotism in our lives. The main goal of independence was to establish a discrimination-free, democratic, peaceful and prosperous Bangladesh. Keeping that goal in mind, we must all work together in unity and take the country forward. To further accelerate the progress and development of our beloved motherland, we must embrace national unity, mutual tolerance and the spirit of patriotism in our hearts. Let us all learn from the significance of the Great Independence and National Day and dedicate ourselves to the welfare of the country from our respective positions. Let us work collectively to build an advanced, prosperous and dignified Bangladesh.

The government has undertaken various programmes across the country to observe the 'Great Independence and National Day 2026' with due dignity and enthusiasm. On this occasion, the messages of the President and Prime Minister will be broadcast on print, electronic and social media. Newspapers will publish special articles, literary supplements and feature pages.