<i>Pabna was freed 2 days after nation's final victory</i>

Durjoy Pabna, erected in front of the deputy commissioner's office in Pabna town, stands glorifying the Liberation War martyrs in the district.Photo: STAR

The people of Pabna got the taste of freedom on December 18 in 1971, two days after the nation's final victory against the Pakistani occupation forces.
Even after surrender of the Pakistan army in capital Dhaka on December 16 in 1971, the occupation troops in Pabna continued preventing the freedom fighters from entering the district headquarters, said Md Baby Islam, a commander of local freedom fighters during the Liberation War.
“Later following assurance from the Indian force, the occupation troops in Pabna got inside the compound of the then Wapda on December 18. And they surrendered to Indian army officer Captain Nanda early next day,” he said.
On December 18, the freedom fighters entered the district town and hoisted the flag of Bangladesh, he added.
With the help of local collaborators like Rajakars and Albadars, the Pakistan army massacred thousands of freedom-loving people in different areas of the district during the nine months of war.
Sagarkandi, Demra, Gopalnagar, Hadal and Handial saw some of the gruesome massacres by the occupation forces in the district.
Durjoy Pabna, a Liberation War memorial was built in front of Pabna deputy commissioner's office in honour of the martyrs.
A discussion and cultural programme will be held marking 'Pabna liberation day' today.