Gafur Bahini was one of the organised resistance groups that emerged in the early phase of the Liberation War, as the Pakistani military launched its brutal crackdown across the country.

Local leaders in the southern Barishal region felt an urgent need to form an armed force capable of protecting civilians and mounting a coordinated resistance.

Responding to that call, Abdul Gafur, Mohiuddin Manik and Benilal Das Gupta took the pioneering initiative to gather dedicated young men willing to join the fight for freedom.

Under their leadership, a committed group of freedom fighters quickly took shape. Over time, the force became popularly known as Gafur Bahini, named after Abdul Gafur, one of its central figures.

Operating primarily across the southern districts, the group conducted guerrilla operations in Banaripara, Jhalakathi, Pirojpur, Swarupkathi and other strategic locations. The riverine terrain and scattered settlements provided ideal conditions for hit-and-run attacks, ambushes and sabotage missions. Using their deep knowledge of the local geography, the fighters struck Pakistani positions swiftly and vanished before the enemy could regroup.

Their operations proved vital in undermining the occupying forces’ control and boosting the morale of local communities, who often sheltered the fighters and supplied them with food and intelligence.

A major turning point came when Captain Shahjahan established a sub-sector command in the southwest. Recognising the need for unified coordination, Gafur Bahini integrated itself into his command structure. This allowed for more ambitious operations, improved tactical planning and greater strategic impact. The group also maintained regular liaison with the Mujib Bahini to ensure cohesion across the wider resistance movement.

Another important source of logistical support was Abul Hasnat Abdullah, camp commander of the Kodaldoa Camp in Agailjhara, Barishal.

His assistance in providing arms and ammunition significantly enhanced the force’s operational capacity and enabled it to take part in several successful engagements.

The courage, discipline and steadfast dedication of Gafur Bahini members earned them deep respect among fellow freedom fighters in the region.

In recognition of their extraordinary service, both Abdul Gafur and Mohiuddin Manik were awarded the gallantry title “Bir Protik” for their notable contributions to Bangladesh’s struggle for independence.

Sources: “1971: Resistance, Resilience and Redemption” by Maj Gen Md Sarwar Hossain; “Ekattorer Dinponji” by Prothoma; “Bangladesher Swadhinota Juddho – Sectorvittik Itihas” by Bangladesh Muktijoddha Parishad.

The reporter can be reached at: [email protected]