December 16, marks Victory Day—a day of unparalleled pride and valour for the Benagli nation. It is a day etched in glory, as it signifies the moment when the red and green flag earned its rightful place on the world map. On this day in 1971, after a prolonged and blood-soaked struggle, the Bangladesh achieved its greatest triumph, birthing an independent country named Bangladesh.
On the day, the air resonated with countless voices singing “Amar Shonar Bangla, Ami Tomay Bhalobashi” (My Golden Bengal, I Love You). For the people of this country, December 16 is forever a day of pride and joy, yet it is also tinged with sorrow for the loss of loved ones.
Historical Background of the Liberation War
The roots of the Liberation War run deep. Although British colonial rule ended in 1947, the subcontinent was divided under the flawed Two-Nation Theory, creating an unequal state of Pakistan. From its inception, the Pakistani regime imposed discrimination, exploitation, and oppression on the Bengalese. This repression sparked resistance among the Bangalees, gradually giving rise to a series of movements against Pakistani atrocities. Students, farmers, workers, and people from various walks of life rallied against the oppression.
Among these movements, the struggle for the recognition of the Bangla language became a significant milestone, inspiring the Bengalese’ liberation movement. Sheikh Mujibur Rahman emerged as the leader of this struggle, transforming it into a full-fledged fight for independence. Revered as "Bangabandhu" (Friend of Bengal), his leadership galvanized the nation.
Even after Bangladesh achieved a landslide victory in the 1970 general elections, the West Pakistani rulers refused to transfer power and resorted to conspiracies. On the night of March 25, 1971, the Pakistani military unleashed a barbaric massacre on innocent, unarmed civilians. This heinous act led to the declaration of independence in the early hours of March 26, igniting the Liberation War.
The entire Bangalee nation joined the war, while the Pakistani military continued its campaign of genocide, arson, and destruction, often aided by collaborators like Razakars, Al-Badr, and Al-Shams. The culmination of this blood-stained struggle came on December 16, 1971, when the defeated Pakistani forces surrendered at Dhaka’s historic Racecourse Ground (now Suhrawardy Udyan).
This day reminds us of the supreme sacrifices made by countless martyrs, in whose honor we uphold the dignity of our flag and nation.
Messages from the President and Chief Advisor
President Md. Shahabuddin, in his message, emphasized the need to institutionalize democracy to deliver the benefits of independence to the people. He urged the cultivation of mutual respect and tolerance among political parties.
Chief Advisor Dr. Muhammad Yunus, in his statement, reiterated the nation’s commitment to building a stronger and more prosperous Bangladesh and reaping the full rewards of independence. He called December 16 a glorious and memorable day, marking the nation’s emergence through immense sacrifices.