The memorial for martyrs of battle at Moyna village in Lalpur, Natore. The heroic resistance by freedom fighters led to complete rout of a regiment of Pakistan occupation forces there on this day in 1971.Photo: STAR

People of Lalpur in Natore district will observe 'Moynar Juddho Dibash' today as valiant freedom fighters in the area destroyed a large number of Pakistan occupation forces on this day in 1971.
Forty people including Bangalees and Santals embraced martyrdom during the crucial event in the beginning of liberation war.
But the great victory of the freedom fighters at the early stage of liberation war is yet to get proper recognition at national level and no museum or library has been set up in memory of the martyrs.
As a 130-member Punjab Regiment started their killing spree in Pabna on March 25 night, freedom fighters including Bangalee members of the then EPR, Ansar and local people built up strong resistance.
Faced with serious casualties, Punjab Regiment sought help from Rajshahi Battalion headquarters.
Major Raja Aslam along with huge troops and heavy weapons reached Pabna but sensing danger they soon started retreating for Rajshahi.
Faced with resistance from freedom fighters including local Santals and obstruction due to damage to a bridge broken by locals at Dhanaidah in Natore district and putting of railway wagon barricade at Gopalpur rail gate, the Pakistan army opted for mud roads.
After they set up camp at Waliar Moyna village, a fierce battle with freedom fighters took place, leaving 40 freedom fighters martyred.
Seven bodies of Pak soldiers were also found in the field.
At night the Pak troops started fleeing in small groups. The following day several of them including Major Raja Aslam were caught. After a 'summary trial' at Lalpur SS Pilot High School ground, the Pakistan army men were shot dead.
As in previous years, family members of the martyrs of Moynar Juddho will arrange discussion, laying of wreaths and doa mahfil at their own initiative at Moynar Juddher Shahid Srmiti Soudha constructed on five decimal land donated by the family of martyr Syed Ali Mollah.
Members of the martyrs' families in Moyna and adjoining villages demanded observation of Moynar Juddho Dibash at state level.