Patuakhali people recall the day of freedom
Liberation War memorial in Patuakhali town. Photo: STAR
On December 7 in 1971, the valiant sons of the soil freed Patuakhali from the clutches of the Pakistan occupation forces. Different organisations including district unit of Muktijoddha Sangsad have taken up various programmes including colorful rally, discussion meeting, cultural function in the town to mark the day. After the declaration of independence on March 26, several battles took place in the district and the occupation army aided by their local collaborators started indiscriminate killing. On April 26 in 1971, Pakistani army men with the help of peace committee members picked up women, tortured many people and looted several hundred houses in the district town. On the day, they gunned down seven Ansar members near the residence of deputy commissioner (DC). Later the Pakistani army killed Abdul Awal, the then DC as he helped the freedom fighters. A day-long fight between freedom fighters and Pakistani army took place at Panpatti village on November 18. In the last week of November in 1971, the freedom fighters entered Patuakhali town and defeated Pakistani troops in face-to-face battles. On December 6, the freedom fighters hoisted national flag on the judge court building and declared the district free from occupation.
For all latest news, follow The Daily Star's Google News channel.
Comments