Rajshahi, Mar 19 (V7N) – On this day in 1971, March 19, Rajshahi witnessed pivotal moments in the lead-up to Bangladesh's Liberation War, marked by a police academy mutiny and a fierce people's resistance in Nandan Gachi.

The narrative begins with Naik Subedar Siraj Uddin Lashkar, stationed at the Mirganj East Pakistan Rifles (EPR) Platoon Headquarters in Charghat Police Station. Following the March 26 declaration of independence and growing unrest, Lashkar defied his superior, Company Commander Hasan Ali, and took decisive action.

On March 28, Lashkar seized weapons from a Border Observation Post (BOP), and on March 19, he raised the flag of Swadhin Bangla at the Minganj BOP, establishing a guard post at Charghat Bazar. He then arrested Commander Hasan Ali and non-Bengali EPR personnel.

Subsequently, Lashkar proceeded to the Sardah Police Academy. Despite initial resistance from DIG Abdul Khalek, Lashkar rallied the officers and personnel, leading a mutiny and declaring their commitment to the liberation war. They formed a resistance force with EPRs, police, Ansars, volunteers, and students, taking control of the Lalpur area of Natore.

Elsewhere in Rajshahi, a student leader from Chapainawabganj and his companions intercepted two cars carrying then-Deputy Commissioner Rashidul Alam, Rahim Nazir, a zone officer, and EPR forces. After a confrontation, the Deputy Commissioner was surrendered, though he was later released.

Meanwhile, Pakistani soldiers fleeing Pabna were intercepted and captured throughout the region. Some were killed at the Arani Bridge. On March 30, Nandan Gachi and surrounding villages erupted in a people's war. Villagers and resistance fighters confronted and killed Pakistani soldiers.

On March 31, Captain Rashid, Professor AB Siddique, and Naik Subedar Siraj Uddin Lashkar organized into three groups and advanced towards Rajshahi district headquarters. Lashkar's group entered Rajshahi University, setting up an observation post. Vice-Chancellor Sajjad Hossain reportedly informed Rajshahi Cantonment.

Lashkar and his forces then positioned themselves at a brick kiln east of the university. It is alleged that Rajshahi Deputy Commissioner informed Pakistani soldiers about Rajshahi District Police Superintendent Shah Abdul Majid, who was subsequently taken and disappeared.

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