The Speech of Mukti’s President at the Pre-Independence Meeting

In delivering his speech on the eve of Independence Day, Mukti President Shankar Haldar emphasized the importance of developing a clear understanding of “freedom” and Independence Day. He explained that Independence Day is not just about commemorating a few famous historical figures with speeches and then enjoying a holiday. The freedom that was won through the blood and sacrifice of countless people is not merely about moving from monarchy to democracy or transitioning from one democracy to another. Citing the recent political changes in Bangladesh, he questioned whether Bangladesh gained independence for the third time. If so, was the previous independence not genuine?

In essence, true freedom is a journey, not a destination. As we move along this path, we must eliminate all forms of inequality, and those who are committed to this cause are also freedom fighters. For this journey, we must be in good physical and mental health. The expansion of thought and awareness is what can bring about true freedom. The real independence lies in eliminating financial and social inequalities by including people from all walks of life.

“The journey from illness to health is freedom,” Mr. Haldar remarked. He further explained that the work being done by the current health workers in rural areas is also part of the fight for freedom because freedom is a long road. According to him, maintaining freedom is just as important as achieving it. He urged Mukti workers to bring the spirit of freedom to the common people in villages and towns.

Expanding on this idea, he highlighted the plight of unemployed youth and questioned, “What kind of freedom have they received, and what freedom are we celebrating?” He identified job creation as the biggest challenge of today’s world, noting that true freedom comes when people have employment. Infrastructure like roads, schools, and health centers are built based on people’s needs, and he believes this is being demonstrated through the MCP (Mukti Community Projects). Explaining the current state of the economy, Mr. Haldar pointed out that an environment where 1% of people control 40% of the wealth cannot be considered true freedom. There are many projects /works that the country needs to implement/execute and people are waiting for such jobs. However, they are not being implemented because people are holding on to their wealth and not investing. As a result, jobs are not getting created. This situation prevents true freedom from being achieved. A shift in awareness is necessary. If we do not understand the problem, how can we solve it?

Further elaborating on this, he said that moving from inequality to equality is the core mantra of the freedom struggle. He made it clear that there is no “patriotism” in attacking a neighboring house or country. Mr. Haldar believes that women in our society are among the biggest victims of inequality since 95% of the wealth is registered in the names of men. He argued that true freedom is not possible until this gender inequality is eliminated.

He then shed light on the environmental destruction caused by 250 years of industrial civilization and emphasized the need to think about and implement long-term eco-friendly projects. In conclusion, he referenced Rabindranath Tagore’s song “Amar Mukti Aloy Aloy” (My liberation is in the light) and said that through our actions, we must liberate our consciousness to move towards freedom. In this regard, he highlighted the need to bring children into the light of true education, as they are the future bearers of freedom.

Mr. Haldar expressed concern that the current educational institutions are focused solely on career-oriented curricula, devoid of any life-oriented elements. As a result, selfishness and social alienation are consuming these so-called educated individuals. Finally, to explain the liberation of consciousness, he invoked the essence of the song “Amra Shobai Raja” (We are all kings in this kingdom), saying that we must think freely and independently. We can all be kings, but ultimately, we must reach a common goal. No one can bind us in the chains of slavery. Our goal is to move forward by overcoming the barriers of inequality, giving equal importance and respect to everyone in society, and in this mission, we are all companions of Mukti. He reminded the audience that while a milestone of freedom was achieved through a historical event, the long journey toward freedom is still ongoing.