Dhaka: People observed Tangail Free Day today, marking the historic liberation of the district from Pakistani forces on December 11, 1971, by valiant freedom fighters. The flag of independent Bangladesh was hoisted on this day, and since then, it has been observed as Tangail Free Day.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the district unit of the Freedom Fighters’ Command Council and Kaderia Bahini organized a series of day-long programs to commemorate the event. These included placing wreaths at the Shaheed Minar, a victory rally, a stick-fighting demonstration, and a discussion. Advocate Golam Mostafa Mia, General Secretary of the Nationalist Freedom Fighters’ Council, emphasized the importance of remembering the sacrifices made by the martyrs of Tangail and urged the younger generation to uphold this legacy.
Advocate Mia also expressed concerns over the current government’s handling of the official list of freedom fighters, alleging that the government has created a partisan list excluding genuine freedom fighters. He demanded justice for the genuine freedom fighters and called for their rightful inclusion.
Abdul Khalek Mondol, convener of the district unit Command of the Freedom Fighters’ Council, highlighted the significant role played by the Kaderia Bahini during the liberation of Tangail. This group, led by Bangabir Kader Siddiqui, became a symbol of resistance against the occupying forces and left an indelible mark in the history of the Liberation War.
During the war, Tangail was initially free from the declaration of independence on March 26, 1971, until April 3, when Pakistani forces reoccupied the town. The freedom fighters, under the leadership of Kader Siddiqui, reorganized and formed the Kaderia Bahini, which played a pivotal role in resisting the occupation. By December 8, 1971, the Kaderia Bahini had effectively engaged the Pakistani forces in multiple battles across the region, eventually leading to the liberation of Tangail.
On December 10, Commander Abdur Razzaq and his forces captured the Tangail Sadar Police Station, raising the flag of independent Bangladesh. The following day, Kader Siddiqui and his convoy entered Tangail from the north, overcoming the final resistance from Pakistani troops. With the surrender of the remaining soldiers, Tangail was completely liberated, marking a significant victory in the country’s fight for independence.