Chattogram: The Genocide Day was observed today in the port city and across various parts of the district to honor the brutal atrocities committed by the Pakistani occupation forces and to reaffirm the commitment to the spirit of the country’s Liberation War in 1971.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Chattogram City Corporation (CCC), district administration, and various socio-political and cultural organizations marked the day by organizing a series of programs. These included discussion meetings, placing garlands at the mass graveyard memorial, showcasing rare and historic photographs, documentaries, and conducting special prayers at mosques and other places of worship.
City Mayor Dr. Shahadat Hossen paid tribute by placing a wreath at the martyred memorial at Mass Graveyard in Pahartali. He honored the unarmed Bangladeshis who sacrificed their lives during the darkest chapter in the nation’s history and the martyrs of the nine-month struggle for independence in 1971.
The Chattogram district administration hosted a discussion meeting at the local circuit house conference room to highlight the day’s significance and reflect on various aspects of the historic War of Liberation. Chattogram Divisional Commissioner Dr. Md Ziauddin served as the chief guest, with Deputy Commissioner Farida Khanom presiding over the meeting.
Other notable participants included DIG of Chattogram range Md. Ahsan Habib Polash, Additional Commissioner of Chattogram Metropolitan Police Md Humayun Kabir, and district police superintendent Md Saiful Islam Santo. They all contributed to the discussions.
During a brief discussion after placing wreaths at the Mass Graveyard, the city mayor remarked on the nation’s achievement of victory over the Pakistani occupation forces, resulting in an independent country through significant sacrifices in the Liberation War of 1971. He also referenced another victory achieved on August 5, 2024, which liberated the country from an autocratic regime, noting that although both victories are important, they differ in their outcomes and impacts.
Chief executive officer of the CCC Sheikh Md Towhidul Islam, Secretary Md Ashraful Amin, and Chief Conservancy Officer Commander Ikhtiar Uddin Ahmed Chowdhury were among those present on the occasion.