President Mohammed Shahabuddin, in his message on "Genocide Day" this Wednesday (March 25), stated that Major Zia's declaration of independence during the critical hours following the brutal Pakistani crackdown on March 25, 1971, united a confused nation and inspired them to join the armed struggle. Recalling the horrors of "Operation Searchlight" at Rajarbagh, Dhaka University, and across the country, the President noted that the formal rebellion of the East Bengal Regiment and Zia's announcement from Kalurghat Radio Station provided the courage needed for the nine-month Liberation War. He emphasized that the young generation must clearly understand this history of brutality and heroism. Celebrating the restoration of voting rights and the formation of a democratic government through fair elections, the President called upon everyone, regardless of political affiliation, to work together to build a self-reliant, discrimination-free, and justice-based Bangladesh as envisioned by the martyrs.