Freedom fighters demand constitutional recognition

A section of freedom fighters yesterday gave an ultimatum to the government to give constitutional recognition to all freedom fighters of the Liberation War in 1971.

The contributions of freedom fighters were not mentioned anywhere in the country's constitution, although the significance of the Liberation War in achieving Bangladesh's independence and contributions of the martyrs were briefly narrated there, said Abir Ahad, convenor of Ekattorer Muktijoddha, a platform of freedom fighters, at a press conference in the capital's Jatiya Press Club.

The history of Liberation War is incomplete if the word “Muktijoddha” [freedom fighters] and their contributions are not mentioned in the constitution, he added.

The platform urged the government to include the contribution of the freedom fighters in the beginning of the constitution.

Otherwise, they would launch a tough movement in July, said Ahad.

The platform also demanded removal of fake freedom fighters, who had used money and power to get freedom fighters' certificates, from the government list of war heroes.

Muktijuddho Prajanma Brigade, an associate platform of Ekattorer Muktijoddha, was launched at the programme with a view to including the new generation in the endeavour of upholding the Liberation War's spirit.

Ekattorer Muktijoddha Member Secretary Abul Bashar also spoke.