‘Rebuild Shonar Bangla’

April 14, 1972

BANGABANDHU'S NEW YEAR APPEAL

Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman today calls upon the people irrespective of their political opinion, cast or creed to take a determined vow to dedicate themselves to the welfare of the suffering masses of Bangladesh. In a message to the nation on the eve of Pohela Boishakh, the prime minister says, " Let this be our new year's pledge that Bangladesh must be built as Shonar Bangla."

The prime minister says that the Bangla year 1378 (1971 Gregorian) will remain forever bright and unforgettable in human history because this year Bangladesh carved its place on the world map at the cost of three million lives.  After a long 25 years of struggle, sacrifice and bloodshed, the green flag with a red orb today flies over Bangladesh, he adds

He calls upon the people, "Let us take a vow in the name of millions of martyrs to dedicate ourselves to the task of building up this country so that we all can keep the honour and sanctity of this flag intact."

The prime minister further says that 75 million people live in Bangladesh on only 56,000 square miles. For all-round development of the people it is essential to translate into reality all the policies declared by the government. Nationalism, democracy, secularism and socialism -- each of these principles has become absolutely essential for the good of the common man of the country, adds the prime minister. He appeals to all people to extend help and full cooperation to the government so that these four principles can be implemented properly.

CHOLERA, SMALLPOX BREAKOUT IN MANIKGANJ

Cholera and smallpox have broken out in epidemic form in some villages in Manikganj.  About 15 persons allegedly died of these diseases in a single village during the last two weeks while more than 30 persons are ailing at present. It is reported that the scarcity of pure drinking water is mainly responsible for the outbreak of these diseases. 

SOURCES: April 15, 1972 issues of Bangladesh Observer, Dainik Bangla and Ittefaq