Our Victory Day

We would be recognised as Pakistani and still exploited if there was no War of Liberation. But our heroic ancestors, who belonged to East Pakistan, partitioned off the then West Pakistan (presently Pakistan). And the day when we formally separated from them is known and celebrated as Victory Day.

In August 14, 1947, Pakistan emerged as an independent country with two parts (east and west). From the birth of Pakistan, the rulers in the West showed discrimination in every sphere of life- economy, politics, administration, language and what not. In course of time, people got to know that they were being deprived of their rights and they have to stand against this. When they didn’t hand over power to us after 1970 election, Awami League leader Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman called the Bangladeshis to be ready for war for freedom against Pakistanis in March 7. Afterwards in March 25, the Pakistani Army executed barbarous massacre in important cities including Dhaka here in Bangladesh. Then in March 26, Bangabandhu declared independence of Bangladesh and then people from all walks of life began to get trained and fight against the modern arms-equipped West Pakistan Army.

The war continued for nine months. The Indian Army hugely helped us during the war. By this time, almost three million freedom fighters were martyred, many more were wounded and a number of women were abused physically. The sanguinary war ended in December 16, 1971 while Pakistanis surrendered to Indo-Bangla Joint Command. So Victory Day is the symbol of triumph of justice over tyranny.

December 16 is observed as Victory Day every year with great enthusiasm and fervour. The country witnesses a smartly dressed parade of defence forces, border guards, police, ansars and the VDP at the National Parade Ground. In Bangabandhu Stadium, scouts, girl guides and school children take part in various displays. Educational institutions also organise their individual programmes. Sports meets and tournaments are also arranged on this day. In the evening, all major public buildings are illuminated with colourful lights. Newspapers bring out special supplements and special programmes are on the radio and television to commemorate the heroes who laid down their life for the sake of the country.

We cannot forget the contribution of our freedom fighters. For their selfless sacrifice, we are now a free nation living in a sovereign state. But we have lots of work to do to materialise their dreams of the Bangladesh without any discrimination. Only then our victory will get integrity.