Jessore: Tomorrow, December 6, marks the Jessore Liberation Day, a pivotal moment in 1971 when Jessore became the first district in the country to be liberated from Pakistani occupation forces. On this day, the blood-soaked red and deep green flag of victorious Bangladesh was hoisted, symbolizing the town's freedom after Pakistani soldiers were compelled to abandon the Jessore cantonment due to intense resistance from freedom fighters and allied forces.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the district administration has planned several programs to observe the day with due solemnity. The day will begin with the hoisting of the national flag at 10 am, followed by the performance of the national anthem at the Jessore Town Hall ground. At 10:15 am, balloons, festoons, and pigeons of peace will be released, and a colorful rally will commence at 10:30 am, parading through significant roads before returning to the starting point.
The background of Jessore Liberation Day is rooted in the fierce battles that took place on December 3, 4, and 5 in 1971. During these days, freedom fighters and allied forces launched attacks on Pakistani troops and installations around Jessore. Overwhelmed by relentless assaults, Pakistani soldiers began retreating towards Khulna on December 5, leading to the complete liberation of the Jessore cantonment on December 6. This victory was met with jubilant celebrations as freedom fighters and civilians filled the streets with small victory processions.
Earlier in 1971, the struggle for independence was marked by tragic events. On March 3, a pro-independence procession in Jessore saw the killing of Charubala Karmakar by Pakistani forces. On March 26, Mashiur Rahman, a Member of Parliament, was brutally murdered by Pakistani soldiers. Subsequent events in March saw Bengali soldiers in the Jessore cantonment revolt and freedom fighters, aided by civilians, liberate political prisoners from Jessore Central Jail.
The tide of the Liberation War shifted significantly from July onwards, with well-trained freedom fighters launching heavy attacks on Pakistani positions in Jessore. Initially led by Colonel Abu Osman Chowdhury, command of Sector 8 was later passed to Major Manzur. The conflict saw the martyrdom of Bir Sreshtho Noor Mohammad Sheikh on September 5 during a battle with Pakistani forces.
From November 20, a final operation by freedom fighters and allied forces sought to capture the Jessore cantonment, leading to the collapse of the strong Pakistani base at Chaugachha. Fierce battles were waged, culminating in hand-to-hand combat when ammunition ran low. With their morale shattered, Pakistani soldiers ultimately retreated and abandoned the cantonment on December 5, paving the way for Jessore's liberation and the subsequent celebrations of freedom.