Delwar Kabir, Jhenaidah
October 14 marks a tragic day in the history of the Liberation War for the people of Jhenaidah. Observed as historic Abaypur Day, it commemorates the 14 freedom fighters and four villagers killed in a fierce battle with Pakistani forces in Abaypur village of Shailkupa upazila in 1971.
Fifty-five years after the bloody battle, the people of Jhenaidah still remember the sacrifices of the freedom fighters and villagers killed by Pakistani forces on October 14, 1971.
According to surviving freedom fighters and elderly residents, Pakistani occupation forces launched a surprise attack on freedom fighters stationed in the Abaypur area that day. Eighteen people, including 14 freedom fighters, were killed in the prolonged and unequal battle.
The martyred freedom fighters were Nazrul Islam of Sheikhpara, Abul Hossain of Bandekhali, Abu Zafar of Siddhi, Ismail Hossain of Dahakola, Chetan Joardar of Jalshuka, Yusuf Ali of Subiddah-Gobindapur, Alimuddin of Doharo, Simar of Boria, Abu Sufian of Bogura, Sirajul of Mingram, Kasem Ali of Boria, Azibor Hossain of Khasbagdia, Shahadat Hossain of Boria and Babar Ali of Kazipara, all in Shailkupa.
The witnesses also said that as the Pakistani forces were leaving the village, they brutally killed four villagers who crossed their path. The victims were Moksed Ali of Boria, Shariful Islam of Mingram, Rustam Ali of Madhabpur and Syed Ali of Abaypur.
After the battle, local residents buried the martyrs with due respect on the premises of Abaypur Bazar. The site remains a source of inspiration for those who cherish the spirit of the Liberation War.
As in previous years, the Jhenaidah district command council of the Bangladesh Muktijoddha Sangsad organised day-long programmes at the martyrs’ memorial in Abaypur village to observe the day. The programmes included laying wreaths at the memorial, special prayers for the martyrs and a commemorative meeting featuring recollections of the battle.
Freedom fighter Kamaluzzaman, a member of the Jhenaidah district command council of the Bangladesh Muktijoddha Sangsad, said the Battle of Abaypur was a symbol of supreme sacrifice for the people of Jhenaidah during the nine-month Liberation War.
“The blood of fearless heroes such as Nazrul, Abul and Abu Zafar helped pave the way for today’s independent Bangladesh. We can never repay our debt to the martyrs. However, building a Bangladesh free from discrimination and exploitation, with good governance, should be our pledge today,” he said.
He added that the younger generation should learn from historic battles such as Abaypur and be inspired by patriotism. He also urged people of all political parties and opinions to work together towards that goal. #EK