The 1971 Liberation War was a true people’s war and a struggle for the survival of the entire nation, Speaker Hafiz Uddin Ahmed Bir Bikram has said.
He said the East Bengal Regiment was the first to offer armed resistance against Pakistani domination, adding that Bangladesh might still have been part of Pakistan had the regiment not launched the resistance.
The Speaker made the remarks as the chief guest at the 2026 reunion of retired members of the 1 East Bengal Regiment, organised by the Senior Tigers at SKS Tower in Dhaka on Friday, October 16.
Hafiz Uddin Ahmed said the East Bengal Regiment holds a proud place in the history of Bangladesh’s Liberation War. Established in 1948, the regiment received the highest number of gallantry awards in recognition of its contributions to the 1965 India-Pakistan war and the Liberation War.
He said the Liberation War was fought by people from all walks of life, regardless of their social class or profession. Those who did not witness the 1971 war had missed an important chapter in the nation’s glorious history, he added.
The Speaker described the lives of East Bengal Regiment soldiers as full of adventure and danger, saying they fought with hopes of victory while facing the constant threat of death. The regiment led the struggle to preserve the existence of the Bengali nation, he said.
He also said the 1 East Bengal Regiment was the first to revolt against the Pakistani occupation forces, while Shaheed President Major Ziaur Rahman declared independence.
Recalling his own experiences with the regiment, the Speaker became emotional as he described his participation in frontline battles during the Liberation War with courage and patience.
A documentary highlighting the history of the East Bengal Regiment and its contribution to the Liberation War was screened at the event. The Senior Tigers later presented the Speaker with a crest.
Retired soldiers and military officers of the East Bengal Regiment from different parts of the country, distinguished guests and media representatives attended the programme.
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