On March 10, 1971, Dhaka turned into a city of flags. The iconic green and red inlaid with the map of the country in the centre was hoisted on the roof of every household, even at Rajarbagh Police Line, police stations, the High Court, and residences of justices.
For the 10th consecutive day, Bangladesh, then East Pakistan, observed a strike and the situation was changing rapidly with everyone responding to Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’s directives.
In various parts of the country, Bengalis clamoured for freedom and clashed with the Pakistan army. Such was the pressure from the public that the army was almost confined to the barracks.
Dhaka Betar continuously played patriotic Bangla songs and programs, while Pakistan Television did the same.
Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, in a statement, described the attitude of the Pakistan leadership as a conspiracy to continue military rule.
At a press briefing in Karachi, NAP chief Wali Khan said that he would go to East Pakistan to meet Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman on March 13.
The chairman of the People’s Party sent a telegram to Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, saying the country was in grave uncertainty and they both had responsibility to do whatever was required to protect the nation.
In Karachi, Air Marshal Asghar Khan said Sheikh Mujibur Rahman symbolized the government in Dhaka and his directives were being followed.
The Pakistan flag was only flying in the cantonment and the crisis would not be resolved unless power was handed over to the majority party, he added