Bangladesh Mourns Legendary Freedom Fighter A K Khandakar

Bangladesh is today plunged into profound mourning following the passing of one of its most extraordinary freedom fighters, Bir Uttam A K Khandakar, a man whose unparalleled contributions were instrumental in realising the dream of a sovereign Bangladesh envisioned by Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. His death, occurring in the nation’s month of victory, has cast a sombre shadow over the country.

According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), A K Khandakar passed away at 10:35 a.m. on Saturday due to age-related causes. He was 95 years old. (Inna lillahi wa inna ilayhi raji’un.)

During the 1971 Liberation War, A K Khandakar served as Deputy Chief of Staff of the Mukti Bahini, playing a pivotal role in the struggle for Bangladesh’s independence. Following liberation, he became the first Chief of the Bangladesh Air Force, reconstructing the air force from the ashes of war. Beyond his military career, he actively engaged in politics, serving as a government minister on two occasions.

Professor Muhammad Yunus, Chief Adviser to the Government, expressed his condolences, stating, “A K Khandakar was an indomitable soldier of Bangladesh’s Liberation War. He was resolute, courageous, patriotic, and principled. His life, work, and ideals will remain an eternal source of inspiration for generations to come.”

Born in 1930 in Rangpur, Khandakar hailed from Purana Vharenga village in Pabna’s Bera Upazila. He completed his matriculation in 1947 and higher secondary education in 1949, before receiving his commission in the Pakistan Air Force in 1952. Rising to the rank of Group Captain, he joined the Liberation War in 1971, leading operations against the Pakistani military as the second-highest officer of the Pakistan Air Force and representing the Mukti Bahini at the historic surrender at Dhaka’s Racecourse Ground on 16 December.

After independence, he served as the Air Force Chief until 1975. In recognition of his extraordinary service, he was awarded the prestigious Bir Uttam in 1973 and the Independence Award in 2011. He also served as President of the Sector Commanders’ Forum.

Beyond the military, Khandakar was a prominent figure in national politics, serving as a minister under President Hossain Mohammad Ershad and again after being elected as a Member of Parliament for the Awami League in 2008. He also authored the historical work 1971: Inside and Outside, offering rare insights into the Liberation War.

The passing of Bir Uttam A K Khandakar marks a monumental loss for Bangladesh. A fearless warrior, dedicated leader, and patriot, his legacy will forever remain etched in the annals of the nation’s history.