বাংলাদেশের স্বাধীনতা যুদ্ধ দলিলপত্র (দ্বাদশ খণ্ড)/৫০
| শিরোনাম | সূত্র | তারিখ |
|---|---|---|
| কয়েকটি রাষ্ট্র সফরে যাওয়ার প্রাক্কালে দেশবাসীর উদ্দেশ্যে প্রধানমন্ত্রীর বেতার ভাষণ | ভারত সরকারের পররাষ্ট্র মন্ত্রণালয় | ২৩ অক্টোবর, ১৯৭১ |
PRIME MINISTER INDIRA GANDHI’S BROADCAST TO THE
NATION, OCTOBER 23, 1971
Tomorrow morning, I leave on a tour of some foreign countries. I want to tell you that, however far I might be, my thoughts will be with you here in India. One cannot leave with a light heart at such a moment. Our country is facing danger. Yet, after much thought, I decided to undertake the journey. The invitations were of long standing, and it seemed important in the present situation to meet leaders of other countries for an exchange of views and to put to them the reality of our situation.
The defence of our national interest, as indeed the solution of any problem, rests ultimately in our own hands. But the very gravity of the situation demands that we do not speak or act in anger or in haste. It is a time for alertness, not only of our defence forces, but of all our people. In the last few months, the world has witnessed the courage, dignity and self-restraint with which we have faced this challenge. I am sure that you will meet all future dangers in the same spirit. We need unity and discipline. I sincerely hope that political parties of all persuasions will stand with us.
Every section of the population, every home, is bearing hardship. All efforts must be made to conserve the nation’s resources, and to raise more. Higher production is essential in agriculture and industry. Farmers and workers, managers and factory owners, should all bend their energy to this over-riding national duty.
In any crisis, hoarding is an anti-national crime. A special responsibility rests upon businessmen not to increase prices even if there be opportunity of gain. We must work harder and save more. We must guard against all that weakens our will. Rumours which create doubt must be scotched, and incitement to communalism must be resisted.
Despite the burden imposed by the influx of refugees from Bangladesh and the crisis on our borders, we are determined that our programmes to help the landless and the unemployed do not suffer. We are going ahead with the Plan. The Indian people are hardened to difficulties and will not be deterred from building a better and stronger country.
My confidence in the solidarity and the sense of responsibility of the Indian people enables me to go on this journey. Let us sink all difference of party and religion. Let us stand united and work together, devoting all our strength to the cause, the freedom and integrity of our nation.
Joi Hind!