BSS) - Speaker of the Jatiya Sangsad (JS) Hafiz Uddin Ahmad, Bir Bikram, today said the Great Liberation War of 1971 was a true people`s war and a war of the nation.

“Those who did not witness the 1971 war have not seen the glorious history of the nation,” he said.

The Speaker made the remarks while addressing a programme as the chief guest at the reunion of retired members of the 1st East Bengal Regiment, titled “Senior Tigers Reunion 2026,” organised by the Senior Tigers at SKS Tower in the capital.

He further said the 1st East Bengal Regiment was the first to revolt against the Pakistani occupation forces, while the then Major Ziaur Rahman, the architect of the country`s independence, declared the country’s independence.

He said that if the East Bengal Regiment had not launched resistance against Pakistan, the country would still have remained part of Pakistan.

The East Bengal Regiment holds a glorious place in the history of Bangladesh`s Liberation War. The regiment was formed in 1948. It received the highest number of gallantry awards for its contributions to the 1965 Pakistan-India War and the Great Liberation War.

The Speaker recalled his days with the 1st East Bengal Regiment and became emotional while sharing his memories. He recounted how he had become part of the nation`s glorious history by taking part in frontline battles during the Liberation War with immense courage and patience.

People from all walks of life had participated in the Liberation War, he said, adding the lives of East Bengal Regiment soldiers were full of thrilling experiences. They lived between the exhilaration of victory in battle and the constant threat of death.

A documentary on the history of the East Bengal Regiment and its glorious contributions to the Liberation War was later screened at the programme. The Senior Tigers also presented a crest to the Speaker.

Retired members and officers of the East Bengal Regiment from different parts of the country, distinguished guests and media representatives attended the programme.