did not agree. “We have all the details we need,” I said. “Bangladesh has declared its independence. Now we have to decide whether we consider ourselves citizens of this new country or not. Everybody has the right to choose. I declare my choice. My choice is Bangladesh. I declare my allegiance to Bangladesh. If there is any one else who would like to join me in this, he is free to do so. Those who do not join Bangladesh, I will consider Pakistani and an enemy of my country.” There was silence. Everyone was taken aback by the way I posed the question of allegiance. I suggested that we form the
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