Kamalpur: Kamalpur, a significant location in Bakshiganj Upazila known for its pivotal role during the Liberation War, will observe Kamalpur Free Day tomorrow, marking its liberation from Pakistani occupation on December 4, 1971. Since this historic event, the day has been commemorated annually with various activities organized by the Upazila administration and freedom fighters.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the day's events will include placing floral wreaths at the memorial and holding discussion sessions. Bakshiganj Upazila Muktijodha Command Council Commander Noushad Ali mentioned that the District Administration, Police Administration, and freedom fighters will collectively observe the Victory Day in an effort to honor the bravery and sacrifices made during the war.
During the Liberation War, Kamalpur, located near the Indian border in Bakshiganj Upazila, was a frontier camp of strategic importance. It was captured by allied forces after a fierce battle with the Pakistani Army. The area fell under Sector 11, commanded by Major Abu Taher, with headquarters at Mohendraganj in India's Meghalaya state, just two kilometers from Kamalpur camp. Sector 11 was divided into eight sub-sectors, including Mohendraganj, Mankarchar, Purakasia, and others.
A total of 22,000 freedom fighters, including 3,000 regular disciplined forces, were involved in the liberation efforts under this sector. From June 12 to November 28, 1971, 18 intense battles occurred between freedom fighters and the Pakistani Army, resulting in the martyrdom of 194 freedom fighters, including Captain Salah Uddin Momtaj, and the death of 497 Pakistani troops. Sector commander Major Abu Taher himself was severely injured, losing a leg during the battle on November 14, 1971, at Kamalpur.
The strategic importance of Kamalpur led to heavy fortifications by the Pakistani army. However, on November 23, 1971, allied forces initiated an attack, and after a 10-day battle, they captured Kamalpur on December 4. On this day, Garrison Commander Ahasan Malik Khan of the 31 Beluch Regiment, along with 162 soldiers and a large cache of ammunition, surrendered to Hardev Singh Claer, Brigade Commander of the allied forces.
The capture of Kamalpur was a turning point, allowing allied forces to advance into Jamalpur and Sherpur districts, significantly contributing to the liberation process from Pakistani occupation.