Veteran freedom fighter Fazlur Rahman, popularly known as “Fazu Pagla,” launched a fiery critique of Jamaat-e-Islami for denying the legitimacy of the 1971 Liberation War.

“Jamaat claims it was a conflict between brothers, instigated by India. But I will say till my last breath—it was a war for Bangladesh’s freedom,” he declared.

Fazlu accused Jamaat leaders of distorting history, claiming freedom fighters were mostly Hindus from India. He challenged Jamaat’s Amir directly: “You have 19 seats in Sylhet. Contest in even one, and if you win, I’ll concede your legitimacy. Until then, I will keep exposing you.”

He vowed to contest the next general election under the BNP’s sheaf of paddy symbol, reaffirming his identity as anti-Jamaat, not anti-religion.