Here we are publishing verbatim a report on the first telephone conversation between Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and Tajuddin Ahmad after Bangabandhu’s arrival in London on January 8, 1972 following his unconditional release from Pakistani detention. This report was published in Morning News on January 9, 1972. — Editor, Bangladesh on Record

Mujib informed of people’s armed struggle 

Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman yesterday asked Premier Tajuddin first of all of the welfare of his people and enquired if my people were murdered by the barbarous Pakistani Military Junta.

The Bangabandhu was talking to the Premier on a London-Dacca long distance telephone call.

The Sheikh asked, “Hellow Tajuddin! I have been surrounded by Pressman. What should I speak to them? How are my countrymen? Have they been murdered by the Pakistani Military junta?”

BSS adds: The Prime Minister replied: ” Your beloved Bangladesh is now a free and independent country of the world. People of this country very responsibly carried out your directives. They have shed enough blood for their independence but they did not bow down their heads before their murderers.”

Releasing the gist of the conversation between the Bangabandhu and Mr. Tajuddin , Finance Minister, Mr. Mansur Ali and two other Awami League leaders , the Prime Minister’s Secretariat last night said Sheikh Mujibur Rahman had enquired about his ailing parents and conveyed a message to them that he would soon be with them “to kiss their feet”.