Ziaur Rahman

Military Revolt

After the military crackdown by the Pakistani army at 25 March in East Pakistan, Major Ziaur Rahman sided with the rebels and joined Mukti Bahini (freedom fighters). At that time, Awami League (AL) Chief, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, was politically active in this movement and was arrested by the Central Government of Pakistan for various charges of conspiracy and treason against the West.

Related Topics:
25 March - Mukti Bahini - Awami League - Sheikh Mujibur Rahman

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East Bengal Regiment under Major Zia captured one radio broadcast centre in Kalurghat, Chittagong (Shadin Bangla Betar Kendro) and Major Zia read the independence declaration on behalf of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, which officially started the Liberation War. There is an on-going political dispute as to whether this was a declaration or an announcement. However, all groups agree that on 26 March 1971 Major Ziaur Rahman declared the independence of Bangladesh and declared himself as temporary Head of the Republic and made a broadcast using Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’s name:

Related Topics:
Kalurghat - Chittagong - Sheikh Mujibur Rahman - Liberation War - 26 March - 1971

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:This is Shadhin Bangla Betar Kendro. I, Major Ziaur Rahman, at the direction of Bangobondhu Mujibur Rahman, hereby declare that the independent People's Republic of Bangladesh has been established. At his direction, I have taken command as the temporary Head of the Republic. In the name of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, I call upon all Bengalis to rise against the attack by the West Pakistani Army. We shall fight to the last to free our Motherland. By the grace of Allah, victory is ours. Joy Bangla.

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