The nation has observed the historic Mujibnagar Day on Sunday commemorating the formation of the provisional government of independent Bangladesh during the War of Liberation.
After the barbaric crackdown of the Pakistan army on the unarmed Bangalees on the night following March 25 in 1971, senior leaders of Awami League congregated at Baidyanathtala in Meherpur on this day in 1971 to constitute the provisional government of independent Bangladesh.
Baiddyanathtala, mainly a mango grove, was later named as Mujibnagar after ceremonial formation of the provisional government of Bangladesh.
Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman was declared the first president of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh, while Syed Nazrul Islam was appointed the acting president in the absence of Bangabandhu.
Tajuddin Ahmed was appointed as the first prime minister, while Khondoker Moshtaq Ahmed, Captain Muhammad Mansur Ali and AHM Qamaruzzaman were the cabinet members.
General Muhammad Ataul Gani Osmani was made the Commander-in-Chief of Mukti Bahini while Major General Abdur Rob was appointed as the chief of staff by the interim government.
The provisional government gave successful leadership to the War of Liberation for achieving victory on December 16.
On the occasion, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina placed a wreath at the portrait of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman at Dhanmondi in the morning.
She stood in solemn silence before the portrait some time and placed another wreath as the president of Bangladesh Awami League along with the party leaders.
UNB adds: Sheikh Hasina arrived in Mujibnagar in Meherpur at about 11:30am and placed a wreath at the Mujibnagar Monument.
She stood in solemn silence for a while as the last post was played on the bugle.
The prime minister also hoisted the national flag at the monument as the national anthem was sung.
A squad of freedom fighters gave guard of honour to the prime minister.