The High Commission of India in Dhaka paid tribute on Saturday to Bangladesh’s former president Ziaur Rahman on the 45th anniversary of his death, recalling the radio address he delivered in March 1971 that it said “electrified the masses” and “led to national liberation”.

In a statement issued to mark the occasion, the Indian High Commission described Ziaur Rahman as one of Bangladesh’s bravest sons.

“We recall his famous radio address of March 1971, which electrified the masses, inspired them on a path of resistance against oppression and led to national liberation,” the statement read.

“Today, as then, India stands shoulder to shoulder with the people of Bangladesh in a saga of shared sacrifices and a common journey towards progress and prosperity of both our peoples,” the statement read.

Ziaur Rahman, a wartime sector commander and founder of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party, was killed by a group of rogue army personnel at Chattogram Circuit House on May 30, 1981.

The BNP is observing the date through an eight-day programme of tributes, charity distributions and party events.