March 7
How relevant is the independence declaration debate today?
Even after 54 years of independence, the debate over who declared Bangladesh’s independence in 1971 remains unresolved. The inability to reach a political consensus on such a nationally significant issue raises serious questions about political failure. Avoiding this question is not an option, as it remains a matter of national importance. Therefore, revisiting the discussion on the declaration of independence and its proclaimer is necessary.
Bringing a taste of freedom to the barefoot slum child
Fifty-five years have passed since independence. I still remember a slogan I raised in 1972, right after independence: "We will bring the taste of freedom to the barefoot slum child." Now, standing in 2025, I must admit—we failed. But we did make the country independent. How? Back then, there wasn’t a single sponge sandal factory in this country. Bengalis didn’t even know what indenting business was. Today, we manufacture everything, from shoes to construction materials. Despite having no iron ore of our own, we are now building and exporting massive ships worldwide. A boy from my village has even built and flown a helicopter! Isn’t that something to be proud of? This is how far we have come as a nation.
Days at Palatana Training Camp
After the first battle of Bilonia, on June 21, 1971, the invading forces reached the Indian border of Bilonia, creating a frightening situation through heavy gunfire and incredible destruction. Before that, however, the people of the entire area, out of a natural urge to save their lives and honour, took refuge in the border areas of the Indian state of Tripura, especially in the city of Bilonia. The city of Bilonia was then flooded with freedom fighters and the common people of East Bengal. The Indian people welcomed them with a smile and sheltered them. I had already reached Bilonia to join the Palatana training camp. My friend Wali joined me on the way. In Bilonia, I met Jahangir and Ansar, students of Dhaka University.
Writers comes under attack while protesting scrapping of national holidays
A group of unidentified miscreants attacked writers who organized a protest rally against the government decision to cancel March 7 and August 15.
March 7 microphone is up for auction internationally
People started gathering at the Racecourse Ground from early morning on March 7, 1971. Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman ascended the stage at noon and effectively called for the independence of Bangladesh.
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