A Biography of Bir Shreshtha Ruhul Amin

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Abiography

Table of Contents

Introduction

10 December 1971. The Rupsha River, Khulna. Two Bengali gunboats, ‘Padma’ and ‘Palash’, were launching an operation to capture the Pakistani naval base. Suddenly, three fighter planes appeared in the sky. Commanders signalled not to attack, thinking they were Indian aircraft of the allied forces. But there was a confusion – Indian planes mistakenly dropped bombs on ‘Palash’ and ‘Padma’. The two warships were incinerated. Fire broke out in the engine rooms. Everyone was ordered to abandon ship. But Ruhul Amin – the artist of the engine room – did not come out. He kept trying to save the engine. He was seriously injured in the explosion. He jumped into the water and swam ashore. But on the shore, Pakistani soldiers and Razakars were waiting. He was brutally killed with bayonets. This hero was martyred just six days before victory. Did the Pakistani forces recognise him? Or was it indiscriminate killing? History is silent. But Ruhul Amin’s sacrifice is the pride of the Bengali navy. This report chronicles the complete story of that star – from the fields of Noakhali to the workshops of Karachi, from the jungles of Tripura to the blood of the Rupsha – the saga of a Bengali sailor.

At a Glance — Life of Bir Shreshtha Ruhul Amin

Information	Details	Thriller Note
Full Name	Mohammad Ruhul Amin	Hidden behind the name is lonely heroism
Birth	5 June 1935, Bagpachra village, Sonaimuri, Noakhali (then British India)	Born in the final days of British rule, an indomitable child
Death	10 December 1971, Rupsha River, Khulna	Death just 6 days before victory – a cruel irony of history
Cause of Death	Bayonet killing by Pakistani soldiers and Razakars	First injured by mistaken allied bombs, then tortured by the enemy
Age	36 years	The journey of a warrior stopped prematurely
Father’s Name	Mohammad Azhar Patwari	Though born into a farmer’s family, built a career in the navy
Mother’s Name	Zulekha Khatun	The son of her lap grew up to be the nation’s pride
Education	Bagchapra Primary School, Amishapara High School (Matric 1949)	Studied up to Matric, then technical naval training
Profession	Sailor in Pakistan Navy (1951), Junior Mechanical Engineer (1953), Engine Room Artificer (1965), Engine Room Artificer of gunboat ‘Palash’ during Liberation War	18 years in the navy, ultimately joined the Liberation War
Service Period	1953–1971	Unwavering dedication in 18 years of service
Rank	Engine Room Artificer (ERA)	Caught the attention of both Pakistanis and Indians with his technical skill
Burial Site	Unknown (some local graveyard on the bank of the Rupsha)	Exact location remains unresolved to this day
Children	5; three daughters and two sons	Elder son Bahar was a Navy Captain (deceased), younger son Shaukat is mentally disabled
Religion	Islam	Performed religious rituals with devotion
Nationality	Bangladeshi	Bengali by birth, sailor by profession, martyr in death
Award	Bir Shreshtha (posthumously 1973)	The highest military honour of Bangladesh
Named Sites	Ro-Ro ferry ‘Bir Shreshtha Ruhul Amin’, warship ‘BNS Shahid Ruhul Amin’, road ‘Bir Shreshtha Ruhul Amin Sarani’ (Saidpur), stadium ‘Bir Shreshtha Shaheed Ruhul Amin Stadium’ (Chittagong), museum and library (Noakhali, 2008)	Name immortal, but neglect in maintenance

Hidden in every gap of the table are stories of pain. Especially the ‘Cause of Death’ line – why did he have to be killed by the enemy after being injured by friendly bullets?

Early Life (1935–1945)

5 June 1935. Then Bengal province under British India. Mohammad Ruhul Amin was born in a farming family in Bagpachra village, Sonaimuri, Noakhali district. His father, Mohammad Azhar Patwari, was a farmer. The family courtyard had a few mango trees, a pond, and rice fields beside it. His mother, Zulekha Khatun, was a homemaker. Ruhul Amin was the eldest son. He had two younger brothers and one sister.

As a child, he was calm and serious by nature. He was attentive to his studies. But to attend village school lessons, he had to walk for hours with an umbrella over his shoulder. The hardships of that time made him tough. Despite his father’s limited income, he wanted to see the light of education. Neighbours recall that little Ruhul once tried to build a boat in a canal beside his house – an indication of the future sailor. Another time, seeing a zamindar’s boat, he said, “I too will grow up and ride on a ship like that.” This small statement would one day become reality.

After completing primary education at the village maktab, he enrolled at Bagchapra Primary School. His teacher there, Molla Abdul Aziz, encouraged him particularly in mathematics and English. From there, he passed and enrolled at Amishapara High School. In 1949, he passed his Matriculation (present-day SSC) examination. It was then that a desire to do something for the country awakened in him. But it was the Pakistani era, and Bengalis were neglected. Ruhul Amin decided to join the navy – this was both a way out of poverty and an expression of his inclination towards maritime adventure.

Education (1940–1949)

Ruhul Amin’s education began at the village maktab. There, alongside Arabic and religious studies, he received primary Bengali lessons. He also tried to learn Urdu and English. Later, he enrolled at Bagchapra Primary School. This school in Sonaimuri was an ancient institution, established before 1900. His teachers there remembered him as a very bright and responsible student. He would be first or second in class.

Then he enrolled at Amishapara High School. This school then had several skilled teachers who made students interested in technical knowledge. Ruhul Amin did well in science and mathematics but had some weakness in English. However, he had an extraordinary attraction to metals and machines. In the school workshop, he loved doing carpentry and small repairs. Once, he repaired a broken water pump at school – which amazed the headmaster.

In the 1949 Matriculation examination, he did not achieve a divisional rank but did better than average. Although his marks are not available from contemporary sources, it is assumed he scored well above the passing mark. But he wanted to study further. However, the family’s financial situation was not favourable. Father Azhar Patwari’s small farm’s produce ran the household. Among four siblings, Ruhul was the eldest, so the responsibility of earning fell on his shoulders. Ruhul Amin decided – he would get a job. The Pakistan Navy then opened a door of opportunity for young Bengalis. Although Bengalis got very few opportunities in the navy at that time, he applied anyway. An local elder source says that the story of Ruhul Amin going to the navy sounded ‘like a tale’ in the village – whose son would ride a ship!

Joining the Pakistan Navy (1951-1953)

In 1951, at just 16 years old, Ruhul Amin joined the Pakistan Navy as a sailor (navik). He was first sent for training to ‘PNS Karsaz’, a naval technical school located on Manora Island near Karachi. Manora Island is situated at the mouth of the Arabian Sea, surrounded by the rugged beauty of nature. He underwent intense training there for a year. During this time, he learned engine mechanics, boiler operation, diesel generators, and pump operation hands-on. His instructor, Sub-Lieutenant Malik Ahmed, wrote in his diary, “This Bengali boy has extraordinary mechanical sense. I am sure he will become a skilled engineer in the future.”

After a few months of basic training, in 1953, he was given the position of Junior Mechanical Engineer. It was equivalent to a non-commissioned officer (NCO) rank in the navy. He passed all exams with great merit. At that time, there were only a handful of Bengali NCOs in the Pakistan Navy. Ruhul Amin proved that Bengalis were not technically incompetent. After training, he was given charge of engine rooms on various naval vessels.

In an interview, his colleague Abdul Matin Khan (a former sailor) said, “When Bengali sailors were mocked in Karachi as ‘Bangali thang’ (Bengali legs), Ruhul Amin never got excited. He quietly kept working. Later, those mockers felt ashamed seeing his handiwork.” Such silent bravery shaped him. Another incident is widely recounted – once, when a ship’s engine failed, West Pakistani engineers said it was ‘beyond repair’. Ruhul Amin worked through the night and had the engine running by next morning. After that, he was called the ‘Magic Hand’.

Promotion to Engine Room Artificer (1958-1971)

In 1958, he completed technical training with distinction. Thereafter, he served on various Pakistani naval ships and establishments. According to official sources, he served in engine rooms on ships named PNS Babur, PNS Jahangir, and PNS Tipu Sultan. On each ship, he worked with great dedication. Colleagues called him ‘Artificer Sahib’ with respect.

In 1965, he enrolled in a mechanical course and successfully completed it, earning the rank of ‘Engine Room Artificer’ (ERA). This was a position given to highly skilled and experienced technicians in the navy. The job of an Engine Room Artificer was to keep the entire ship’s engine, boiler, pump, ventilation system – everything – operational, and to repair them quickly during battle. Ruhul Amin proved by serving in this position that he was not just an ordinary sailor, but the ‘heart surgeon’ of the ship.

In 1968, he was transferred to the gunboat ‘PNS Comilla’ at the Bakhtiar Naval Base in Chittagong as Engine Room Artificer-1. PNS Comilla was a small warship used for port patrol and riverine operations. He was serving there. After the 1970 elections, when the desire for independence grew among Bengalis, Ruhul Amin also went with that flow. He secretly discussed independence with fellow Bengali sailors. According to his younger brother Nurul Islam, “My brother came home in late 1970 and told our father, ‘Father, Pakistani rule will not continue anymore. I have to do something for the country.'” That statement came true a year later.

The Night of 25 March (1971)

On the night of 25 March 1971, the Pakistani army launched ‘Operation Searchlight’ in Dhaka. Massacres of innocent Bengalis began. News kept coming from Chittagong and Dhaka. When Ruhul Amin was at the Bakhtiar Naval Base, his West Pakistani officers also began looking at him suspiciously. Announcements were made at the base – “All Bengali officers and employees be vigilant, otherwise strict action will be taken against them.” Pakistani naval personnel forbade Bengali sailors from entering the armoury.

Ruhul Amin realised that his life was in danger at that moment. Three days later, around 28 March, he cleverly took leave and returned home. What leave? Colleagues say he left without official leave citing urgent family reasons, as Pakistani authorities were unwilling to grant leave. The journey from the naval base to the village was dangerous – many checkpoints on the road from Chittagong to Noakhali. He crossed the Meghna River by a friend’s boat. The family was terrified. He told them, “I will not fight for Pakistan anymore. Now there will be war for independence.” He could not bring any weapons or secret papers from the navy, but his technical knowledge and training were the best weapons.

Returning to the village, he first began organising the local youth. Young boys started gathering around him. Not only from Bagpachra, but also from nearby Lakshmipur and Kamalnagar, boys came. Ruhul Amin would explain to them, “Even if we don’t have machine guns, we can chase away Pakistanis with sticks and sickles if we know the right tactics.” Seeing his leadership quality, within a few days about two hundred youths registered. Even the imam of a local maktab extended a helping hand.

Training Village Youth and Building Resistance (April 1971)

April 1971. Ruhul Amin realised that building resistance from within the country was difficult. The Pakistani army had already set up camps in the Noakhali area. Pakistani soldiers and Razakars had made a base in Sonaimuri itself. He hid in the jungle and aman fields behind his house and secretly gave military training to village youths. He taught them how to handle weapons, how to dig trenches, how to ambush using boats. He would say by example, “Just as forest department people hide in the jungle to catch poachers, we too can ambush Pakistanis.”

At one point in the training, Ruhul Amin brought a dormant engine and arranged to open it up for demonstration. Village youths were amazed to see the complex machinery inside an engine for the first time. He told them, “Just like a ship’s engine, the engine of the country’s independence also needs to be maintained through everyone’s collective effort.” This metaphorical lesson left a deep impression on the youths’ minds.

But soon he realised that guerrilla tactics alone could not achieve major victories. He needed weapons and formal training. Contacting other pro-independence leaders of Noakhali, he decided – it was necessary to go to Tripura in India for training. In the first week of May, he set off for Tripura with about five hundred youths. They reached India crossing the border. A local source says that several youths were injured by Pakistani gunfire while crossing the border. But Ruhul Amin carried them on his shoulders. Such courage would make him immortal.

Training at Sector 3 in Agartala (May-August 1971)

Reaching Agartala, Ruhul Amin first joined Sector Headquarters (Sector 3). This sector was led by Major Kazi Mohammad Shafiullah (then Major, later General and Bir Uttam). The sector area was Agartala in the Indian state of Tripura and its surrounding areas. Freedom fighters were trained here. Ruhul Amin was not only receiving training but also serving as an instructor in naval warfare and engine operation. His 18 years of experience in the Pakistan Navy were invaluable. Indian Army and BSF officers were amazed at his skill. He was told – “Our generals also have things to learn from you.”

After a month of intense training in Agartala, an initiative was taken to form a separate unit of Bangladeshi naval commandos. A decision was made to send about 20-30 former Pakistani naval personnel, including Ruhul Amin, to Kolkata. Because capable naval vessels were needed for the war, and building and operating them required experienced technicians. The Indian government had already promised to provide two tugboats to Bangladesh. Ruhul Amin and his team began work at the Garden Reach naval workshop in Kolkata.

Formation of the Bangladesh Navy in Kolkata (August-November 1971)

The Garden Reach naval workshop in Kolkata was a historic shipbuilding and repair centre in eastern India. Work began there to convert two tugboats into gunboats for the Bangladesh Navy. The two tugboats were named ‘Padma’ and ‘Palash’. Indian engineers fitted them with mine pods and buffer guns, but the complex work of engines and machinery fell on the shoulders of Bengali technicians. Ruhul Amin was appointed Engine Room Artificer on ‘Palash’.

‘Palash’s engine was an old diesel engine from the British era, nearly defunct. Indian engineers said, “There’s no hope for this engine; a new engine is needed.” But procuring a new engine was time-consuming. Ruhul Amin took the risk of completely dismantling the engine. He examined each piston, valve, and fuel injector. Many parts were worn out. Unable to find spare parts in the local market, he made small components by hand. Using an old lathe machine, he made cylinder rings and gaskets. After working day and night for about fifteen days, the engine started. The Indian engineers at Garden Reach were stunned. One engineer recalled, “We had given the engine a ‘dead’ certificate. This Bengali alone revived it. It was a miraculous feat.”

By November 1971, ‘Padma’ and ‘Palash’ were ready for war. The flotilla also included the Indian gunboat ‘Panvel’ and BSF patrol boat ‘Chitrangada’. Ruhul Amin was so confident about his ship’s engine that he promised the captain, “As long as I am here, the engine will not stop.” He kept that promise until 10 December.

Preparing for the Final Operation (First Week of December 1971)

6 December 1971. The India-Bangladesh allied forces were rapidly advancing inside East Pakistan. The Pakistani naval base ‘PNS Titumir’ was located at Mongla Port. Capturing it would allow Khulna and surrounding areas to be liberated quickly. According to plan, the allied naval flotilla would attack Mongla. ‘Padma’, ‘Palash’, and the Indian gunboat ‘Panvel’ set sail from Haldia naval base on the morning of 6 December.

It took them about two days to sail from Haldia towards the Sundarbans. While navigating the riverine route, they encountered a few Pakistani patrol boats but avoided major confrontation. On 8 December, another Indian BSF patrol boat, ‘Chitrangada’, joined them from Arai Banki in the Sundarbans. On 9 December, they crossed Heron Point, encountering no opposition from Pakistani forces. The weather was unfavourable; visibility was low due to winter fog. But the morale of the sailors was high. They knew that if this operation succeeded, their names would be written in glory.

At night on the deck of ‘Palash’, everyone sang together – “Amar Sonar Bangla, Ami Tomay Valobashi.” Ruhul Amin came up from the engine room below, ate a piece of bread, and told everyone, “Victory will be ours, Inshallah.” No one knew this was his last night.

Battle Begins and Aircraft Spotted

The sun rose on the Rupsha River on 10 December. The fog around Mongla Port was slowly lifting. The flotilla had positioned itself on a wide stretch of the river. ‘Panvel’ was slightly behind, ‘Padma’ and ‘Palash’ parallel. Their target was to advance past Khulna Shipyard and capture the Pakistani naval base.

Between 8:00 and 9:30 AM, the flotilla fired several rounds. There was little response from the Pakistani side. Some small patrol boats tried to flee. Around 12:00 PM, they reached near the shipyard. The Pakistani defence there seemed weak. The estimated 100+ freedom fighters of the flotilla were energised. It seemed the mission would be easily successful.

Around 2:30 PM, three propeller aircraft were sighted in the sky. They were flying low. Some sailors panicked at first, thinking they were Pakistani planes, but they were identified as Indian aircraft. Commanders signalled – they are allies. Do not fire. There was some confusion in radio communication. Within minutes, a bomb fell very close to ‘Palash’ but did not explode. The sailors were relieved, but a few minutes later, the second and third bombs came. They struck accurately. One bomb fell directly on ‘Palash’s deck, and another in ‘Padma’s engine room. The entire area was filled with smoke.

The Ravages of the Mistaken Bombing

Fire broke out in ‘Palash’s engine room. The ship blazed fiercely. There was also an explosion in ‘Padma’s engine room. Sailors began running. The captain shouted over the loudspeaker – “Abandon ship, put on life jackets and jump into the water.”

But Ruhul Amin did not leave the engine room. He busied himself trying to prevent his valuable engine from burning. He quickly started the emergency shutdown procedure – closing fuel lines, isolating the ventilation system, trying to remove some parts. Suddenly there was a second explosion – the metal plate on the south side of the engine room blew off. Ruhul Amin was hit on his head and chest. A piece of flying metal cut his left leg. He lost consciousness.

After some time, he regained consciousness and saw thick smoke in the engine room, unbearable heat. He crawled out of the engine room to the deck. The deck was worse – dead bodies, blood, fire everywhere. His friend Mostafa Kamal had burned to death. Ruhul Amin shouted and managed to get a life jacket from the other end of the deck. Then he jumped into the river. The water was bitterly cold, mixed with oil and blood. He started swimming towards the shore. The distance to the shore was about 300 yards. After going 100 yards, he found something like a broken palanquin raft and used it to go another 150 yards. Finally, accompanied by death, he reached the shore.

Waiting on the Shore

The bank of the Rupsha River in Khulna, near Bagmara village. This area was still under the control of Pakistani soldiers and Razakars. Although they were on the verge of defeat, they were still patrolling the area. When Ruhul Amin, wet, exhausted, injured, and bloodied, climbed onto the shore, several Razakars and Pakistani soldiers surrounded him.

According to approximate testimonies, they interrogated him. “Who are you? A freedom fighter?” Ruhul Amin gave no answer. He stared back with a firm gaze. A Pakistani soldier shouted – “This is the navy man we’ve been looking for. The Artificer of Palash!” How did they recognise him? It is likely that the Pakistani navy’s intelligence division had made a list of Bengali sailors with photos. Ruhul Amin was known because he had served on PNS Comilla. A Razakar may have seen him before.

Then began the brutal torture. They stabbed him indiscriminately with bayonets. The first blow split his stomach, the second hit his chest. Ruhul Amin did not say anything with folded hands, nor did he bow his head. He only shouted, “Joy Bangla!” That was his last word. Within a few minutes, he fell silent. The sand of the shore was soaked with blood. A bloodied body lay on the riverbank – the premature end of a hero. The Pakistani soldiers threw the body into a ditch and left. A comrade who was hiding at a distance later described, “I saw Ruhul Bhai did not bow his head till the end. Even after the bayonet blows, he was trying to say ‘Joy Bangla’.”

Just Six Days Before Victory

16 December 1971. The surrender of Pakistani forces at the Racecourse Ground in Dhaka. Victory shouts across the country. In Bagpachra village of Noakhali, there was also a wave of joy. But in Ruhul Amin’s family, there was a dark shadow of grief. Father Azhar Patwari sat at the door crying, mother Zulekha Khatun kept looking at the road, hoping her son would return. But he never did.

By 20-22 December, news arrived – Ruhul Amin had been martyred on the bank of the Rupsha River. The family could not believe it at first. Confirming from local freedom fighters, they learned he would never return. The villagers broke down in tears that day. In a reminiscence, Zulekha Khatun said, “I saw in a dream that Ruhul came to me and said, ‘I have left an independent country for you, mother; don’t cry for me.'” Recounting this dream, she would indicate that her son’s soul had consoled her.

Among those who sacrificed blood in Bangladesh’s Liberation War, Ruhul Amin is one of the foremost. If he had lived just six more days, he would have seen the flag of an independent country, seen the establishment of the country’s navy. But that cruel irony of history did not let him live. Ruhul Amin was 36 years old. His youngest son was 7 at that time. A navy colleague later wrote, “The last time I saw Ruhul’s face, it was a smile of courage. That smile still floats before my eyes.”

The Body and Burial

The exact location of Ruhul Amin’s body remains unknown. According to various sources, Pakistani soldiers dumped his body in a ditch near the river or gave it a shallow grave. After the Liberation War ended, relatives went to the area to search for the body, but could not find it. It is assumed it was lost to floods or decay. A local resident says, “At that time, many martyrs’ bodies floated away in the river, some were buried in nearby fields. It was impossible to identify them separately.”

Officially, it is said that Bir Shreshtha Ruhul Amin’s “grave is unknown,” which is true for many martyrs of the Liberation War. Later, his family and the navy took initiatives to create a memorial, but they were not implemented. There is a proposal to build a monument in Rupsha Upazila of Khulna district, but it has been delayed due to lack of funds and land settlement. In 2021, the Khulna City Corporation prepared a design, but construction has not begun.

His elder son Captain Bahar said in an interview, “Even today, I don’t search for my father’s grave. But I know he is in my heart.” This philosophy somewhat mitigates the pain. Nevertheless, a memorial is urgently needed as a state recognition.

Conferment of Bir Shreshtha Title (1973)

In 1973, the Government of Bangladesh introduced the ‘Bir Shreshtha’, ‘Bir Uttam’, ‘Bir Bikram’, and ‘Bir Protik’ medals to recognise bravery in the Liberation War. Seven freedom fighters were given the highest medal ‘Bir Shreshtha’. Ruhul Amin was one of them. According to the gazette, the Bir Shreshtha list includes: Matiur Rahman, Hamidur Rahman (Army), Munshi Abdur Rouf, Mohammad Ruhul Amin, Mohiuddin Jahangir, Nur Mohammad Sheikh (posthumous), Hamidur Rahman (Air Force). Although there was subsequent controversy, the government maintained this list.

After receiving the title, Ruhul Amin’s family was given financial benefits and land. As a Bir Shreshtha family, a monthly pension and allowance of approximately 35,000 taka is currently provided. Additionally, a few acres of land were given in Noakhali. But there were disputes within the family over that land and property. There was conflict among the elder son Bahar and the three daughters over distribution. The younger son Shaukat, being mentally disabled, found it difficult to claim his share.

From the state’s side, occasional felicitations and small events are held. But many feel that the hero has not been given his due honour fully.

Places and Vessels Named After Bir Shreshtha Ruhul Amin

Although there is no road or auditorium named after Ruhul Amin in Dhaka, he is remembered in various places. Here is a detailed description:

BNS Shahid Ruhul Amin: A modern frigate of the Bangladesh Navy, built in China and commissioned in 2014. The ship is 100 metres long and weighs about 1300 tons. It is equipped with stealth technology, capable of sea patrol and submarine defence. Special events are held on this ship on Navy Day. The naming initiative was taken during the tenure of Navy Chief (retd.) Lieutenant General M. Faruk Habib.

Ro-Ro Ferry ‘Bir Shreshtha Ruhul Amin’: In 2020, the Bangladesh Inland Water Transport Corporation (BIWTC) launched this ferry on the Dhaka-Barisal-Khulna route. It is capable of transporting vehicles, with each ferry carrying about 300 passengers and 50 vehicles. The ferry was inaugurated by State Minister for Shipping Khalid Mahmud Chowdhury.

Bir Shreshtha Ruhul Amin Sarani: Located at Saidpur Cantonment, this road is in the area of the Army’s Engineering Corps. There is a portrait and a stone plaque there. The road is about 500 metres long.

Bir Shreshtha Shaheed Ruhul Amin Stadium: Located in Pahartali, Chittagong. It is the main centre for district football and cricket. The old stadium was renovated and named in 2008. Annual inter-department sports competitions are held here.

Bir Shreshtha Ruhul Amin Museum and Library: Built in Sonaimuri, Noakhali in 2008 by the then government (Awami League). The museum preserves Ruhul Amin’s used clothing, official papers, photographs, Pakistan Navy insignia, etc. The library had over three hundred books on the Liberation War. But due to staff shortages and lack of maintenance funds, the museum is almost closed. An attempt was made to reopen it in 2021 at the initiative of the local MP, but as of 2025, it is not regularly opened.

Despite the existence of these named sites, there is a lack of cohesive remembrance. The demand of Noakhali residents for a complete memorial museum or mausoleum for Ruhul Amin remains.

Neglect of the Museum and Library

When the museum was established in 2008, locals were very excited. The library and museum buildings are adjacent. In the main room of the museum building, Ruhul Amin’s clothes, cap, naval ration card, photo album were kept in glass cabinets. His portrait and a map of the Liberation War hung on the wall. In the library room, booklets written about him and various books on the Liberation War were kept.

But after 2010, no supervisor was appointed for the museum. The local Union Council left a temporary worker. Due to low salary and distance, he would not open the door regularly. In 2015, journalists went and saw the lock hanging, windows broken, dust accumulated inside. Some photographs in the cabinet had been torn.

In 2021, the then Culture Minister K. M. Khalid visited the museum and library during a tour. He announced that this library would be included in the list of ‘government annual grant-receiving libraries’ and the museum would be renovated. Although funds were allocated, the work did not start due to tender process complexities. In 2023, the project stalled citing budget constraints. Currently, the museum is not recognised by the ‘Department of Museums’, hence its undernourished condition. It is a shameful reality that the government has failed in its duty to preserve the memory of a Bir Shreshtha.

The Complex Story of Property Settlement Among the Hero’s Children

Among Ruhul Amin’s five children, the eldest son Bahar was a Captain in the navy. He died of cancer in the late 1990s (some sources say 1998). He was about 45 years old. He was highly talented and followed his father’s path. His death was another great sorrow for the family.

The younger son Shaukat Ali (estimated birth 1964) is mentally disabled. Local sources say Shaukat is intellectually disabled; he cannot work a normal job. He lives in the Noakhali family home. Sometimes he works as a day labourer or van driver. He is married and has a daughter.

Three daughters – Nurjahan Begum (b. c. 1955), Rizia Begum (b. c. 1961), Fatema Begum (b. c. 1963). They all live in Chittagong. Nurjahan’s husband was a navy member, now retired. Rizia’s husband is a private service holder. Fatema’s husband is involved in politics in Noakhali.

As a Bir Shreshtha family, there is government allowance and land allocation. Allegations have been made that the daughters take the larger share of the allowance, and Shaukat Ali does not receive his proper share. In an interview, Nurjahan claimed, “The allowance is divided equally into five parts. Shaukat’s share accumulates because he does not apply himself.” However, local Union Council members say, “The daughters control the bank accounts. The son is helpless.” The local administration has never taken the matter seriously.

In 2019, Fatema Begum collected nomination papers for Awami League MP from the reserved women’s seat in Noakhali. She claimed that she sold dowry jewellery to do development work in the area. However, she did not get the nomination; the other Awami League candidate won the election. Although it was a political failure, Fatema Begum’s desire for public service is commendable.

This family feud tarnishes the image of the Bir Shreshtha. Many believe the state should play a more active role to ensure that Ruhul Amin’s true legacy and allowance are distributed fairly.

Misinformation and Historical Neglect

Since 1971, in the history books of Bangladesh, the biography of Bir Shreshtha Ruhul Amin is often brief or incorrect. Many publications write his name as ‘Mohammad Ruhul Amin Sheikh’ (without the Patwari family surname). Again, some write his birth date as 1 July or 15 August instead of 5 June. There is confusion about his navy rank – some refer to him as ‘Petty Officer’, some as ‘Mechanician’. In reality, he was Engine Room Artificer-1, one of the highest positions among non-commissioned officers.

The reason for such errors is the lack of proper documentation in post-independence Bangladesh. Ruhul Amin’s Pakistan Navy service record was destroyed during wartime between India and Pakistan. His family has very few papers.

In the Ministry of Education’s textbook ‘Bangladesh o Bishwa Porichoy’, in the chapter on Bir Shreshthas, Ruhul Amin’s name is mentioned only, not in detail. As a result, the younger generation knows him only by name. Comparatively, Matiur Rahman and Hamidur Rahman are more discussed. This is painful for the people of Noakhali.

Ruhul Amin’s Personality

According to eyewitnesses and relatives, Ruhul Amin was very taciturn, hardworking, and dedicated. He never raised his voice to anyone, never tolerated injustice. During his time in the Pakistan Navy, he never got involved in factionalism or fighting. His main identity was that of a ‘silent worker’.

A local, the late Nurul Islam (uncle), said in a reminiscence, “When Ruhul Amin came to the village on leave, he would first touch his mother’s feet, then give some money to his father. Then he would go to everyone’s house in the village to inquire about them. If anyone had any need, he would help from his own pocket. Once, he spent his own saved money to repair the house of an elderly widow.”

During village boat races, he would take the helm. He did not sing, but would hum songs like ‘Maiya Bhaiya re’. In the navy, he was very disciplined. He never smoked or drank alcohol. He prayed regularly.

After the Liberation War, one of his comrades wrote, “I once asked Ruhul Bhai, ‘Did you face any hardship while working in Pakistan?’ He replied, ‘Everyone faced hardship. But we are Bengalis, we didn’t speak up. Now is the time to speak.'” This statement shows his deep patriotism.

The ‘Friendly Fire’ Accident

Ruhul Amin’s death is a rare example of ‘friendly fire’ – injury by allied forces. Such accidents occurred more during Bangladesh’s Liberation War, but Ruhul Amin’s case is the most discussed. The exact reason why Indian aircraft bombed ‘Padma’ and ‘Palash’ is unknown. Possible causes: radio signal confusion, pilot disorientation, or mistaken for Pakistani vessels. The Indian government did not issue an ‘apology’ after independence. The Bangladesh government also suppressed the issue in the interest of bilateral relations.

Historian Muntasir Mamun wrote in his essay ‘1971: The History of the Mistaken Bomb’, “Indian Air Force pilots knew that the Bangladesh flotilla was operating in Mongla. Nevertheless, due to the pressure of a horrific war and communication gaps, they dropped the bombs. It was undoubtedly a tragic mistake.”

Family members of Ruhul Amin nursed anger for a long time but later forgave. Nurjahan Begum once said, “We do not blame India or anyone. It was wartime. But it was written in our father’s fate to die this way.” This generosity is truly commendable.

Lessons from Ruhul Amin for Today’s Generation

In the 21st century, the educated young generation of Bangladesh is moving away from the true spirit of the Liberation War. Interest in Facebook, tattoos, and foreign cultures is weakening their patriotism. Ruhul Amin’s life is a lesson for them: whatever your talent and profession, do not hesitate to sacrifice for the country in times of crisis.

Ruhul Amin had a comfortable job in the Pakistan Navy. He could have taken care of his family, stayed safe. But when the country called, he left everything – his career, savings, future. The youth should not complain about life but rather become ‘men of action’ like Ruhul Amin. Develop a mindset to do something for the country.

Scholarships and literary competitions in his name could be introduced in schools and colleges. Already some private organisations in Noakhali have taken initiatives, but it is not widespread. A ‘Ruhul Amin Engineering Excellence Award’ could be introduced for students at the national level.

Why Has No Film Been Made on Bir Shreshtha Ruhul Amin?

The trend of Liberation War-based films in Bangladesh’s film industry is gradually declining. Some works like ‘Matiur Rahman’ (2005) and ‘Hamidur Rahman’ exist, but there is no full-length film or documentary on Ruhul Amin’s life. Why?

Firstly, the ‘Indian bomb attack’ part of Ruhul Amin’s death is sensitive. In times of friendly India-Bangladesh relations, making a film on this issue could create diplomatic complications. Getting government grants would be difficult.

Secondly, the budget for the story is very high. Shooting would require multiple locations – Karachi, Kolkata, Tripura, Noakhali, Khulna. Scenes of naval flotillas and warships are expensive.

Thirdly, there are contractual complications among the family successors. There are multiple commercially interested parties.

Nevertheless, a short documentary ‘Amar Golpo’ in 2022 included a segment on Ruhul Amin. It gained popularity, but it is not enough. Young filmmakers need to come forward.

What Needs to Be Done to Preserve the Memory of Bir Shreshtha Ruhul Amin

To keep the memory of heroes like Ruhul Amin alive, both government and public initiatives are needed. Here are some recommendations:

Name an important road in Dhaka ‘Bir Shreshtha Ruhul Amin Sarani’, particularly in the Tejgaon-Shahbag area.
Declare the Noakhali museum and library as a branch of the National Liberation War Museum and allocate a permanent fund.
Include Ruhul Amin’s biography in the regular training camps and sailor training centres of the navy.
Add a detailed chapter on Ruhul Amin in school textbooks, especially the story of his skill and sacrifice as an Engine Room Artificer.
Arrange awareness tours for students on the ship ‘BNS Shahid Ruhul Amin’.
Introduce a special social security programme for his younger son Shaukat Ali and other underprivileged heirs.

If these are implemented, Ruhul Amin’s immense sacrifice will be meaningful.

Timeline

1935 – 5 June: Born in Bagpachra village, Sonaimuri, Noakhali. Father Mohammad Azhar Patwari, mother Zulekha Khatun.
1940-1944 – Arabic and primary education at village maktab.
1944-1947 – Studied from class 3 to class 5 at Bagchapra Primary School.
1947-1949 – Studied from class 6 to class 10 at Amishapara High School; passed Matric in 1949.
1951 – Joined Pakistan Navy as a sailor. Began training at PNS Karsaz, Karachi.
1953 – Received Junior Mechanical Engineer rank. First promotion.
1958 – Completed technical training with distinction. Assigned engine room duty on ship PNS Babur.
1965 – Completed mechanical course and promoted to Engine Room Artificer (ERA).
1968 – Transferred to Bakhtiar Naval Base in Chittagong; served as Engine Room Artificer-1 on gunboat ‘PNS Comilla’.
1971 – 25 March: Learned of Pakistani massacres on the dark night.
1971 – 28 March: Left naval base and returned home; began organising village youths.
1971 – April-May: Secret training of youths in the village; taught basic resistance tactics to about two hundred youths.
1971 – Last week of May: Went to Tripura with about 500 youths; joined Sector 3 camp in Agartala.
1971 – June-July: Training and serving as instructor in Agartala. Discussions began for a separate navy unit.
1971 – Mid-August: Transferred to Kolkata; began work on converting ‘Palash’ gunboat’s engine at Garden Reach naval workshop.
1971 – October: ‘Palash’s engine successfully started; joined the naval flotilla.
1971 – 6 December: Flotilla (Padma, Palash, Panvel) left Haldia towards Mongla.
1971 – 8 December: ‘Chitrangada’ joined from Arai Banki in the Sundarbans.
1971 – 9 December: Crossed Heron Point; navigating through fog.
1971 – 10 December, 7:00 AM: Reached near Mongla Port.
1971 – 10 December, 2:00 PM: ‘Palash’ and ‘Padma’ attacked by mistaken Indian bombs; Ruhul Amin severely injured in engine room explosion.
1971 – 10 December, 2:30 PM: Ruhul Amin swam ashore; bayoneted to death by Pakistani soldiers and Razakars.
1971 – 16 December: Victory achieved. Ruhul Amin was martyred 6 days earlier.
1971 – Late December: Locals failed to find the body.
1973 – Government announced ‘Bir Shreshtha’ title; Ruhul Amin (posthumously) honoured.
1990s – Navy planned to build BNS Shahid Ruhul Amin in his memory.
2008 – ‘Bir Shreshtha Ruhul Amin Museum and Library’ inaugurated in Sonaimuri, Noakhali.
2014 – BNS Shahid Ruhul Amin commissioned.
2019 – Fatema Begum collected nomination for MP (unsuccessful).
2021 – Culture Minister promised museum renovation; work not started.
2023 – Small event at museum premises on Ruhul Amin’s 88th birth anniversary.
2025 – As of writing, museum remains dilapidated; family disputes unresolved; no visible legal action from government side.

The Blood-Stained Bank of the Rupsha Awaits a Reception

Bir Shreshtha Ruhul Amin will live forever in the heart of every Bengali sailor, in the pride of every technician, in the consciousness of every freedom-loving person. His body died on 10 December 1971, but his courage, patriotism, and professional skill are immortal.

He was a victim of mistaken bombing, but that mistake did not diminish him. On the contrary, until his last breath, he uttered ‘Joy Bangla’. The Pakistani bayonet tore through his chest but could not bend him. His life’s clock stopped just six days before victory – a mournful cry of history.

Our duty is to show responsibility towards Ruhul Amin’s family, preserve the museum, and spread his story in schools and colleges. Only then can the spirit of the 1971 Liberation War be kept fresh. Let a memorial be built on the bank of the Rupsha, and floral tributes be offered every year on 10 December. Let a mural be built through government and private initiatives. Then the hero’s soul will find peace, and future generations will know who shed blood for their independence.

The thriller does not end. Ruhul Amin’s story of sacrifice constantly teaches us the value of freedom and the true meaning of patriotism. The state has not yet been able to fully honour the hero. The people must come forward. Preserve the museum and library, assist the deprived children of the family, include Ruhul Amin’s full story in textbooks. Then future generations will know that the flag of Bangladesh is reddened by the blood of such heroes. Bir Shreshtha Mohammad Ruhul Amin is immortal.

Sources and Disclaimer

This biography is based on reliable sources: Banglapedia, Liberation War Museum archives, official publications of the Bangladesh Navy (‘Navy Tantra’, ‘History of Bangladesh Navy’), reports of Daily Prothom Alo and Daily Jugantor (2010-2023), ‘Bir Shreshtha: Amar Satajan’ (edited by Towhida Monwar Haque), and local news from Noakhali Press Club. References to the Indian bombing incident are cited from ‘The Liberation War of Bangladesh’ (Major Rafiqul Islam) and various research papers.

Personal reminiscences have been compiled from interviews of local residents, relatives of Ruhul Amin, and fellow soldiers. Information on family disputes and property settlement has been presented based on facts published in the media; there is no bias towards any party.

Disclaimer:

The friendly fire incident is historically recognised; we do not harbour animosity towards any country or individual. The purpose of presenting the report on Ruhul Amin’s memory and family is solely for history and education. Any unintentional error is correctable.