Victory Day Observed in Betagi: Valiant Freedom Fighters Accorded Warm Reception

 

Betagi (Barguna) Correspondent | Daily Seshkatha

Tuesday, December 18, 2025

BETAGI, BARGUNA – The Betagi Upazila Administration celebrated the 54th Victory Day with due solemnity and patriotic fervor on Tuesday. A key highlight of the day’s program was a heartfelt reception accorded to the valiant freedom fighters of the upazila at the Upazila Conference Hall.

Reception and Discussion

The program was presided over by the Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO), Muha. Saddam Hossain. Addressing the gathering, speakers highlighted the supreme sacrifices made in 1971 and discussed the historical significance of the local resistance in Betagi.

Other notable speakers included:

 * Jewel Islam, Officer-in-Charge (OC) of Betagi Police Station.

 * Shajahan Kabir, former Upazila Chairman.

 * Motaleb Sikder, wartime commander.

 * Md. Ziaul Kabir Dulu, Joint Convener of the Bangladesh Freedom Fighters Sangsad (Betagi Upazila Command) and JSD-nominated candidate for the Barguna–2 constituency.

 * Abdur Rashid and Abdul Khaleq Mina, valiant freedom fighters.

Recalling the Clarion Call of 1971

Heroic freedom fighter Md. Ziaul Kabir Dulu shared emotional reminiscences of the war. He recalled how the message of independence was first received at the Betagi wireless station on March 26, 1971, and subsequently publicized across Betagi Bazar.

He and wartime commander Motaleb Sikder emphasized that Major Ziaur Rahman’s announcement of independence from the Kalurghat Radio Station on March 27 (on behalf of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman) served as a massive inspiration that motivated local youths to join the struggle.

Tributes and Concerns

During his speech, Dulu paid tribute to 9th Sector Commander Major M. A. Jalil, describing him as the country’s first political prisoner. He also shared his personal history of being sent by Major Jalil to fight in support of the Palestinian cause to recover the Al-Aqsa Mosque.

Turning to current affairs, he expressed concern regarding the upcoming National Parliamentary Election for Barguna–2, scheduled for February 12, citing uncertainty and the safety of candidates. He urged voters to support pro-liberation forces.

A Day of Solemnity

The day began at dawn with a 31-gun salute, followed by the placing of wreaths at the "Durjoy Betagi" Liberation Memorial.

 * Administration: UNO Muha. Saddam Hossain led the tributes.

 * Political Presence: Leaders from BNP, CPB, and other social organizations were present.

 * Note on Attendance: Notably, no members or activists of the Awami League were seen paying homage at the memorial this year.

Statistics and Conclusion

Currently, Betagi Upazila has 229 enlisted freedom fighters, of whom 85 are still alive (approximately 40 are currently battling illness).

The event concluded with the distribution of gifts to the freedom fighters by the UNO and a special prayer (munajat) led by Maulana Atikur Rahman, Khatib of the Betagi Upazila Model Mosque, seeking peace for the departed souls of the martyrs.