The main goal of independence was to establish a non-communal Bangladesh to be freed from hunger and poverty, President Mohammed Shahabuddin said on Thursday.

But the anti-independence group obstructed the achievement of that goal by assassinating Bangabandhu and his family in 1975.

The president made the remarks while a delegation led by president of Ghatak Dalal Nirmul Committee Shahriar Kabir paid a courtesy call on him at Bangabhaban on Thursday.

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The head of the state also called upon all pro-Liberation War forces, irrespective of party affiliations, to work together to spread the spirit of liberation war and communal harmony at the grassroots.

The President also emphasised on strong unity of all pro-independence forces for the betterment of the country and its people.

During the meeting, the delegation of Ghatak Dalal Nirmul Committee invited the President to attend its National Conference to be held on May 3.

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The delegation issued a memorandum to implement the recommendations of the Shahabuddin Chuppu Commission, with the aim of speedily completing the trial of the 1971's mass killings, appointing more judges in the Supreme Court and ensuring communal harmony.

They sought the President's full cooperation in implementing the proposals and recommendations of the Shahabuddin Chuppu Commission.

 At that time, President's Office Secretary Md Wahidul Islam Khan, Press Secretary Md. Joynal Abedin and Military Secretary Major General SM Salahuddin Islam were also present.