, March 25 -- The nation is set to celebrate the 55th Independence and National Day on Wednesday with elaborate programmes and due respect.

In the early hours of March 26, 1971, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman declared Bangladesh's independence following the crackdown on unarmed Bangalees on the midnight of March 25 by the Pakistani occupation forces.

After the nine-month War of Liberation with the supreme sacrifices of three million people and at the cost of chastity of two lakh women, Bangladesh achieved its cherished independence on December 16, 1971.

The day is a public holiday.

The interim government has taken up elaborate programmes at the national level to celebrate the Independence and National Day.

Govt announces programme...