A tragic reminder

Today, December 20, is reminder of Moulvibazar mine blast tragedy.

On this day in 1971, at least 25 freedom fighters were killed in a series of explosions that followed an accidental mine blast at the freedom fighters' transit camp set up at Moulvibazar Government High School in the town.

After the nation's final victory against the Pakistan occupation forces on December 16, local freedom fighters started joining the transit camp and arms, ammunition, mines and other explosives carried by the freedom fighters were kept there.

On the morning of December 20, a mine from the hand of a freedom fighter accidentally fell on the floor of the building and exploded. It caused blasting of several other mines, said Azizur Rahman, chairman of Moulvibazar District Council.

“Hearing the sound of explosions, locals rushed to the spot and recovered the bodies of over 25 freedom fighters,” said Azizar, also an eyewitness to the incident.

“They were buried with due honour in the south-eastern corner of the school ground. A martyrs' memorial, built in front of the burial ground, came to be known as the Central Shaheed Minar of Moulvibazar,” he said.

Another monument was later built nearby, with inscriptions of the names of 25 freedom fighters killed in the accident.

The number of the victims would be much more as several bodies got burnt and destroyed beyond recognition, said a few freedom fighters and senior politicians of the area.

Different government, non-government, socio-cultural and political organisations have taken up day-long programmes including placing of floral wreaths at the memorial, prayer meeting and discussion on the day.