Faruk E Azam, the Liberation War Affairs Adviser, is overseeing the classification of battlefield and associate freedom fighters to eliminate fraudulent entries, having received complaints about 90,000 fake fighters. Efforts are ongoing to protect genuine fighters’ dignity while acknowledging both direct and indirect contributors to the Liberation War. Additionally, attention is being directed towards assisting families of martyrs who are currently not receiving benefits.

Liberation War Affairs Adviser Faruk E Azam announced the ongoing classification of ‘battlefield freedom fighters’ (FFs) and ‘associate FFs’. This effort aims to eliminate fraudulent names from the genuine freedom fighters list, ensuring their dignity is preserved. Complaints regarding 90,000 alleged fake freedom fighters have been received, with data entry for 40,000 already completed, and an additional 50,000 data entries currently in progress.

Azam, a recognized freedom fighter awarded the ‘Bir Pratik’, explained that those who fought directly during the Liberation War from March 26 to December 16 would be classified as battlefield freedom fighters. The classification process will also recognize associate freedom fighters, including those who galvanized international support, such as members of the Swadhin Bangla football team, artists, journalists, and healthcare workers.

He emphasized that individuals in supportive roles, such as farmers, police, and military personnel who fought on the frontlines, will not be equated with those who merely campaigned for public support. Azam noted the need to distinguish these groups, stating the ministry intends to identify individuals indirectly involved as ‘associate freedom fighters’.

Azam criticized the politicization of the Liberation War, highlighting issues with minors being improperly included in the freedom fighters list. He revealed that some alleged fake freedom fighters have applied to voluntarily remove their names, and he assured that no punitive actions would follow these voluntary withdrawals. However, he mentioned that letters would be sent to questionable freedom fighters to defend their claims.

Further, he stated there would be true reconciliation within the new Muktijoddha Sangsad formed to resolve the current situation, confidently expressing the aim to compile a legitimate list of fighters. Furthermore, he lamented the spirit of the Liberation War’s dilution over time, declaring, “the genuine FFs are facing an image crisis, and we are trying to protect their dignity.”

The adviser also addressed the status of families of martyrs, revealing that while there were 6,757 confirmed deaths during the Liberation War, 1,399 martyr families are not receiving allowances. He insisted that efforts will be made to locate and assist these families, noting many may lack awareness about the benefits available due to educational barriers.

Lastly, he reaffirmed the Liberation War Affairs Ministry’s commitment to honor freedom fighters beyond political affiliation, emphasizing the importance of commemorating those who fought for Bangladesh’s independence. If implemented effectively, he believes this will address decades of neglect and disparity.

The efforts led by adviser Faruk E Azam to classify freedom fighters aim to uphold the dignity of genuine freedom fighters by eliminating fraudulent claims. Through the establishment of a clear distinction between battlefield and associate freedom fighters, as well as increased attention to martyr families’ needs, the Liberation War Affairs Ministry seeks to protect the integrity of historical narratives. This initiative reflects a broader desire to honor those who participated in Bangladesh’s independence, ensuring their contributions are accurately recognized and celebrated without political bias.

Original Source: www.bssnews.net

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