On March 12, 1971, people in various parts of the world voiced their support for the movement initiated by Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman for the independence of Bangladesh.

As per the instruction of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, all government, semi-government and private offices, educational institutions and banks remained closed. Black flags were hoisted at residences, educational institutions, and offices as well.

At a rally in Mymensingh, Abdul Hamid Khan Bhasani said: "I know Sheikh Mujibur Rahman can never betray. You should have faith in Sheikh Mujib.” Prominent leaders such as Sufia Kamal organised themselves into resistance groups showed their absolute support for Bangabandhu. Students matched at Dhaka University campus in military formation, giving a clear indication that they were ready for war.

In a press briefing in Lahore, Air Marshal Asgar Ali Khan said that fate was playing an odd game, where the fault was of Lahore, but shots were being fired in Dhaka.  He said the people of the East region want to live with equal rights, not be the slaves of West Pakistan, and the only way to solve the problem was to hand over power to Bangabandhu.


Meanwhile, National Committee member Mohammed Zahiruddin gave up the title given to him by the Pakistan government. Filmmakers in East Bengal, supporting Bangabandhu's non-cooperation movement, decided to close theatres for an indefinite period across the country.

Daily Pakistan reported that Bengali CSP officials marched in support of the ongoing movement and gave one day's salary to the Awami League funds. In an official announcement in Rawalpindi, the Armed Forces parade and other ceremonies scheduled for Pakistan Day on March 23 was cancelled. In Bogra, 27 prisoners escaped in a jailbreak. Police opened fire at them and one prisoner died, while 15 were injured.