DACCA: Troops and para-military Forces moved swiftly into strategic positions in cities and towns today [Dec 28] after a state of emergency was declared throughout Bangladesh. A dramatic proclamation by President Mohammadullah at 7-15 a.m. said extreme measures were necessary to contain internal subversion, lawlessness and secret killings.

A Press note later issued by the Government said: “A group of people who opposed the war of liberation have since been active in various subversive activities and they have been joined by others who failed to attain power by constitutional means.” The state of emergency was proclaimed … because the nation’s “security and economic life have been threatened by internal disturbances”.

The Press statement accused collaborators and others in the pay of foreign Powers of making it impossible to create normal political stability and orderly economic progress. … Fundamental constitutional rights … will remain suspended during the period of emergency. According to All India Radio, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman told newsmen that the measure was the first step towards meeting the … situation [and] he … would not hesitate from taking “more stringent measures” if necessary.

Published in Dawn, December 29th, 2024