The 19th March, 1971 is a unique day in the history of country's Liberation War as the freedom-loving people, under the directive of the Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, had launched the first armed attack on the Pakistani forces in Joydebpur. On this day, several freedom fighters, including Hormut, Niamat and Monu, made their supreme sacrifices. After the incident, slogans started to be chanted across the country - ''Go through the path of Joydebpur and do free Bangladesh."
The first armed resistance in pursuit of the country's independence against the Pakistani occupation forces was made in Joydebpur of the district on Mar 19, 1971. The way the people from all walks of life including students raised barricades to build armed resistance against the occupation forces was remarkable.
Gazipur was liberated from the hands of the occupation forces after the last battle on Dec 15, 1971, just one day ahead of the Victory Day. The disastrous defeat of Pakistani forces on Dec 15 had paved the path towards the most desired victory of the nation.
Earlier, on Mar 5, 6, 15, 17, 18 and 25, 1971, students, workers and people from all walks of life put barricades and created resistance against the Pakistani army. Many people died or received injuries in those resistances.
People of Gazipur restored the frontal resistance after the disarmament of Bangalee soldiers of 2nd East Bengal Regiment at Joydebpur Rajbari in 1971.
On Mar 19, Niamat, Manu Miah, Hurmat Ali and Kanu Mia embraced martyrdom when the Pakistani troops opened fire on them. The unarmed people of Gazipur realised the brutal and barbaric attitudes of the Pakistani forces before the black night of Mar 25, 1971.
They were indomitable even after witnessing the mass atrocities perpetrated by the Pakistani army. They snatched away arms and ammunition from the Pakistani forces. They put barricades by felling trees, putting stones and sandbags on the road.
After hearing the news that Pakistani Brigadier Zahan Zeb Abrar Khan was advancing towards 2nd East Bengal Regiment at Joydebpur Rajbari to disarm the Bangalee soldiers, the people of Gazipur began mobilising their resistance.
At about 1pm, the Pakistani troops reached Joydebpur Rajbari. At that time, the Commanding Officer was Lieutenant Colonel Masudul Haque and his second-in-command was Major Shafiullah, while Major Mainul Hossain Chowdhury played a vital role in the historic resistance at Gazipur.
'Jagroto Chowrongi', a memorial sculpture was made by noted Sculptor MA Razzaque to commemorate the martyrs of the first armed resistance in the district.
- Compiled
