Zia acted as a spy of Pakistan in Liberation War: Hasan

Information and Broadcasting Minister Dr Hasan Mahmud on Sunday said BNP does not observe the historic Mujibnagar Day though its founder Ziaur Rahman did a job of Taka 400 per month under the Mujibnagar government.

"Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman could not take oath as was in prison in Pakistan. But the government, which was formed under his (Bangabandhu) leadership, took the oath on this day in 1971 at Mujibnagar in Kustia (now Meherpur). The Liberation War was conducted by the Mujibnagar government, the first government of Bangladesh. The sector commanders of the war were appointed under this government," he said.

The minister stated these while addressing a discussion and unwrapping the cover of a book named 'Sangbad Shironame Bangabandhu' marking the Mujibnagar Day at the meeting room of his ministry at Secretariat in the capital.

Information and Broadcasting Secretary Md Mokbul Hossain presided over the meeting. Press Institute of Bangladesh director general Zafar Wazed, Department of Films and Publication director general SM Golam Kibria and Principal Information Officer Md Shahenur Mia, among others, addressed the discussion.

Hasan said it is really regretful that BNP doesn't observe the historic Mujibnagar Day. "BNP doesn't observe many historic days. But, BNP's founder Ziaur Rahman did a job of Taka 400 monthly under the Mujibnagar government. So, it is proved that they (BNP) want to deny the history," he added.

He said there is also a question whether Ziaur Rahman did war or acted as a spy of Pakistan. In fact, he (Zia) acted as a spy of Pakistan in guise of the Liberation War, said Hasan, also Awami League joint general secretary.

Recalling the contribution of journalists during the Liberation War, the minister said the local and foreign journalists started journey from Kolkata Press Club at midnight to collect the news of the oath taking programme of the Mujibnagar government though they didn't know where their destination is.

Later, they gathered at Baidyanathtala, mainly a mango orchard, in Meherpur on April 17 and the place was named as Mujibnagar. The journalists spread the news across the world, he added.