Bogura district correspondent
Ending a long period of exile, BNP acting chairman Tarique Rahman is returning to the country, marking the beginning of a new chapter in national politics. He is set to contest the 13th parliamentary election from the Bogura-6 constituency, Sadar, triggering a festive mood among BNP leaders and activists in Bogura.
For many residents of Bogura, this year’s Victory Day felt unusually muted. Abdus Salam, a local businessman, recalled the festive atmosphere of past celebrations while listening to patriotic songs on his phone. “Victory Day is no longer what it used to be,” he said. “The few arrangements we see today feel purely formal. Earlier, streets were filled with music and decorations, and the city was alive with celebration. Now everything seems dull.”
A red alert was suddenly issued in Thonthonia, Sutrapur, Hazipara, Tetulia and Pasharipara of Bogura city on November 11, 1971.
Nowadays most discussed issue in the country's political arena is the referendum. However, when trying to find an answer to the question of how much the common people know or are interested in this referendum, a different picture comes to the fore.
Most the roads, highways and even the sidewalk in Bogura city are experiencing heavy traffic congestion due to encroachment. One road after another is being illegally encroached and the highways have turned into parking zones. Buses and trucks are being parked in front of highway hotels, vehicle servicing centers and workshops day after day.
Only a few days ago, the fields of Chak Bhola Kha village in Bogura’s Shibganj upazila echoed with the laughter of children and the chatter of tea-stall gatherings at dusk. Now, the once-lively village lies eerily silent and deserted. Doors and gates are locked, homes abandoned, and many residents are on the run, fleeing to avoid arrest. It all began on the night of October 4.