Madaripur liberated after 36 hours of fierce fighting: District observes historic day

A defining chapter of Bangladesh's Great War of Liberation unfolded in Madaripur when freedom fighters forced the Pakistani occupation forces to surrender, liberating the district after a relentless 36-hour battle between 8 and 10 December 1971.

By the afternoon of 10 December, Madaripur stood liberated, and the flag of victory rose proudly over the district.

Freedom fighter sources recounted that, after suffering defeats across the country, the Pakistani troops stationed in Madaripur had already begun preparing to move away.

Intelligence reports indicated that soldiers stationed at the AR Hawlader Jute Mill camp were planning an escape.

Upon receiving the information, Khalil Bahini chief Khalil Khan acted swiftly. Under his command, freedom fighters surrounded the Samaddar Bridge area on the night of 8 December, cutting off all possible escape routes for the enemy.

Intense combat erupted the following morning. The area shook with the thunder of gunfire, mortar blasts, and heavy artillery.

Throughout the 36-hour operation, the freedom fighters displayed remarkable bravery, discipline, and tactical skill, resisting a better-armed enemy with unwavering determination.

Eyewitness and valiant freedom fighter Ali Kazi told BSS, "We fought the Pakistani army continuously for 36 hours. They had superior firepower, but we never backed down."

"At one point, our youngest comrade, Sarowar Hossain Bachchu, was martyred. His sacrifice strengthened our determination even further," he added.

He said the relentless, coordinated attacks of the freedom fighters shattered the morale of the invading forces.

Facing ammunition shortages and surrounded from all sides, the Pakistani troops were forced to surrender on the afternoon of 10 December.

A wave of joy swept across Madaripur. Thousands of people poured onto the streets, waving the national flag and celebrating the long-awaited victory.

At least 20 Pakistani soldiers were killed in the fighting.

Madaripur's youngest freedom fighter, Sarowar Hossain Bachchu, embraced martyrdom while fighting with exceptional courage.

District Freedom Fighters' Commander Habibul Haque said, "December 10 is a day of immense pride for Madaripur. Our district was freed on this day, but this victory came through immense sacrifice. We remain eternally grateful to our martyrs."

To mark the occasion, the Madaripur district administration recently organised a series of programmes. A discussion was held this morning under the initiative of the district administration.

Chaired by Deputy Commissioner Jahangir Alam, the discussion was attended by freedom fighters, their families, political leaders, educators, students, and local residents.

Speakers highlighted the historical significance of 10 December, the sacrifices made by freedom fighters, and the importance of passing down accurate history to younger generations.

Deputy Commissioner Jahangir Alam said that the liberation of Madaripur is a glorious milestone in the nation's history.

He affirmed that the administration would continue its efforts to preserve the memories and lessons of the day for future generations.

Residents of Madaripur called for greater initiatives to preserve, document, and publicise the proud history of 10 December.