The six-point demands of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman played a crucial role in the independence of Bangladesh and to make the people aware of the demands, Bangabandhu held several rallies in Sylhet.
He also held a rally at Jakiganj, an area near the border in Sylhet.
The current Sylhet city AL president, freedom fighter Masuk Uddin Ahmed, recalls Bangabandhu’s speech and recounting on the turbulent period of the 70s, said: “As a national leader, he made a place among the masses and under his direction, a country became independent. Bangabandhu was a charismatic leader and could take swift decisions.”
He also delineated how the six points can be implemented to add more impetus to the movement.
“When Bangabandhu used a road, people stood on both sides for hours to catch a glimpse of him.”
When Bangabandhu came to Jakiganj, the locals asked him for some help for the mosque to which they got a promise. A cheque was sent to the mosque on behalf of Bangabandhu in 1975 but by that time, he was no longer alive.
In Jakiganj, 10,000-12,000 people gathered to listen to Bangabandhu, said Masuk, adding: “We were Chhatra League activists at that time; Bangabandhu’s speech captivated everyone. In the 32 minute address, the leader elaborated on the six points. In the election that followed, AL won 167 seats of 169 in East Pakistan.”