Dhaka, Dec. 16 -- In the summer of 1971, amid the Liberation War, one of the boldest operations in Chattogram targeted the Madunaghat Substation, a critical node distributing electricity from Kaptai Hydroelectric to the region.

For the freedom fighters, this was more than sabotage -- it was a strike at the lifeline of the Pakistani forces.

The operation saw fierce confrontation with Pakistani troops. Mannan, a valiant freedom fighter, lost his life during the assault and was posthumously awarded the Bir Bikram for his bravery.

The mission, carried out in mid-September, was led by Flight Lieutenant Sultan Mahmud. Among the courageous participants was Shahabuddin Ahmed Chowdhury, then a novice in the Pakistan Air Force who returned home ...