Dhaka: Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) President Dr. Col (Retd) Oli Ahmed, Bir Bikram, shared his account of the 1971 rebellion against Pakistan, highlighting Major Ziaur Rahman’s leadership. “On the night of March 25, as soon as I received the news that the Pakistan Army cracked down in Dhaka, I was the first to rebel against Pakistan with the 8th Bengal Regiment under the leadership of Major Zia,” Oli Ahmed stated in an interview at his residence in Mohakhali DOHS.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Oli Ahmed, a former army officer, recalled his experience with the 8th East Bengal Regiment in Chattogram during the War of Independence. He described the pivotal moment when the regiment revolted and joined the Liberation War. At that time, West Pakistani Colonel Abdur Rashid Janjua was the commanding officer, while Major Ziaur Rahman served as the second in command.
Oli Ahmed proudly recounted a handwritten note he received from Ziaur Rahman in 1973, acknowledging his key role in the rebellion. He described the crucial events of March 27, when Major Ziaur Rahman declared independence from Kalurghat Radio Station, a decision made at Patia Police Station in Chattogram. Oli Ahmed mentioned his role in sending Ziaur Rahman to the radio station with a guard for the proclamation.
The veteran discussed the transformation of Kalurghat radio station into a broadcasting station and the subsequent declaration of Bangladesh’s independence. Oli Ahmed also highlighted Ziaur Rahman’s request for international recognition and support for Bangladesh, as well as the call to arms for various groups to join the liberation effort.
He emphasized the significance of Ziaur Rahman’s speech as a guideline for the nation and expressed that the nation would never forget his courageous role. Oli Ahmed noted that the armed struggle against Pakistan began shortly thereafter, but mentioned that no middle or high-ranking Awami League leaders were involved in the war.
Oli Ahmed concluded by addressing the surrender of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman to the Pakistanis on March 25 and the prolonged fight against Pakistan over the next nine months.