Bangabandhu’s nation-building challenges

January 1, 1973

Shamsuddoza Sajen

VIETNAM DAY CLASH

Two students are killed and seven others are injured when the police on duty open fire upon a procession of students organised by DUCSU and Bangladesh Chhatra Union in observance of Vietnam Day today.

The incident takes place in front of the American Centre at noon. The students killed in the police firing are Motiul Islam, 21, a final-year BA student in Philosophy, Dhaka University and Mirza Quadirul Islam, a second-year HSC student of Dhaka College.

A hartal is called from 5:00am to 2:00pm on January 2, 1973 in protest of the incident.

BANGABANDHU DEEPLY GRIEVED

Prime Minister Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman issues the following statement today in response to the incident of police firing in front of the American Centre: “I am deeply grieved by the unfortunate incident today which resulted in the loss of our two boys and caused injury to some. My heartfelt sympathies go out to the bereaved families and to the injured persons. A judicial inquiry has already been ordered to ascertain the causes which resulted in this tragedy. The government and the people -- and all political and other organisations-- have a common interest to ensure that such an incident does not recur so that everyone can enjoy the fruits of a peaceful democratic society in Bangladesh.”