Jhenaidah: Liberation Day was observed in Jhenaidah district today, marking 54 years since the district town was freed from Pakistani occupation forces in 1971. On this historic day, freedom fighters defeated the invaders and their local collaborators, hoisting the red-and-green flag of independent Bangladesh over the skies of Jhenaidah for the first time.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, during the nine-month Liberation War, Jashore and Jhenaidah were known as strongholds of the Pakistani military, where atrocities and repression were rampant. By early December, however, the occupying forces became disoriented in the face of intensified attacks by freedom fighters and guerrilla units.
Historical accounts indicate that Jhenaidah witnessed the first major frontal battle between Mukti Bahini and Pakistani forces on April 1, 1971. Pakistani troops, advancing from Jashore Cantonment with tanks and artillery, attempted to capture Jhenaidah. Upon receiving the information, freedom fighters took strategic positions at Bishyakhali Bazar under Sadar upazila. The Mukti Bahini demolished the Bishyakhali Bridge over the Begwati River, trapping the Pakistani convoy on one side. An eight-hour-long fierce battle ensued, ultimately forcing the Pakistani forces to retreat.
Other notable battles in the district include the Garaganj and Alfapur battles on April 4 in Shailkupa upazila, and the Kamanna battle on November 26. These engagements remain vivid in the memories of local residents and veterans.
Freedom fighter Md. Tajuddin Ahmed, a former member of the East Pakistan Rifles (EPR), shared his memories with BSS, recalling the refusal to surrender weapons and the subsequent involvement in guerrilla warfare that intensified across the country in late November 1971. Another heroic freedom fighter, SM Mashiur Rahman, noted that Jashore was the first district to be liberated, and Jhenaidah-then a subdivision of Jashore-was freed on the same day. Young fighters, including himself, played crucial roles in demolishing the Bishyakhali Bridge to halt the movement of Pakistani forces.
A total of 276 freedom fighters from Jhenaidah were martyred during the Liberation War. Among them were two decorated heroes-Bir Shrestha Hamidur Rahman and Bir Pratik Sirajul Islam. On this Liberation Day, the people of Jhenaidah remember their sacrifices with deep respect, honoring their courage and determination.
The district observed its Liberation Day today with due dignity, featuring a vibrant rally and commemorative events honoring the freedom fighters who liberated the district from Pakistani occupation on December 6, 1971. To mark the historic day, a colorful rally organized by the District Freedom Fighters' Association commenced from the old DC Court premises at 10 am, paraded through major streets, and concluded at the Chuadanga bus stand. A discussion meeting followed at the Liberation War Memorial premises, with speakers emphasizing the importance of upholding the true spirit of the Liberation War and instilling patriotism in the new generation.