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Bangladesh PM Calls 1971 Pakistan Crackdown a "Pre-Planned Massacre"

Bangladesh observed Genocide Day on March 25, marking the 1971 crackdown by Pakistani forces. Prime Minister Tarique Rahman described the events as a "pre-planned massacre" and one of the most brutal chapters in history. President Mohammed Shahabuddin also stated the day remains the most painful chapter, recalling indiscriminate killings of civilians. Both leaders called on the nation to work together to fulfil the ideals of the Liberation War and build a just, prosperous Bangladesh.

Key Points: Bangladesh Marks Genocide Day, Recalls 1971 Massacre

  • 1971 crackdown called pre-planned massacre
  • Operation Searchlight targeted unarmed civilians
  • Nation observes Genocide Day on March 25
  • Leaders urge upholding Liberation War ideals
2 min read

B'desh PM Tarique Rahman calls 1971 crackdown by Pakistan a 'pre-planned massacre'

PM Tarique Rahman and President Mohammed Shahabuddin commemorate Genocide Day, calling the 1971 Pakistani military crackdown a pre-planned massacre.

"Let us work together to build a just, developed, prosperous, self-reliant and democratic Bangladesh. - Tarique Rahman"

Dhaka, March 25

Bangladesh Prime Minister Tarique Rahman described the events of March 25, 1971, as a "pre-planned massacre" and one of the most brutal chapters in the nation's history, as the country on Wednesday observed Genocide Day in remembrance of those killed during the crackdown by Pakistani forces.

"March 25, 1971, is observed as Genocide Day. On the occasion of Genocide Day, I pay my deepest respect to all the martyrs. In the history of freedom-loving Bangladesh, March 25, 1971, remains one of the most disgraceful and brutal days," read a statement issued by Tarique on the occasion of Genocide Day.

The PM said that the Pakistani occupation forces launched one of the most "heinous" genocides in history against the unarmed Bangladeshis on that night under "Operation Searchlight".

Calling the 1971 crackdown a pre-planned massacre, Tarique added that Pakistani forces indiscriminately opened fire on teachers, intellectuals and innocent civilians at multiple places, including Dhaka University, Pilkhana and Rajarbagh Police Lines, resulting in numerous deaths.

Stressing the need to uphold the ideals of the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War, the PM said, "Let us all strive to honour the sacrifices of the martyrs by establishing in the state and society the spirit of the great Liberation War - equality, human dignity and social justice. Let us work together to build a just, developed, prosperous, self-reliant and democratic Bangladesh."

Meanwhile, Bangladesh President Mohammed Shahabuddin said that March 25, 1971, remains the most brutal and painful chapter in the nation's history, when the entire nation was left speechless and stunned by this genocide.

He said that on the night of 1971, the Pakistani forces carried out indiscriminate massacres on unarmed and sleeping civilians in the name of "Operation Search Light".

President Shahabuddin called on people of Bangladesh, irrespective of religion, caste, party or opinion, to work together with a spirit of patriotism to fulfil the ideals and aspirations of the martyrs of the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War.

"The hope, aspiration and dream of the martyrs in the Liberation War were to build a humane, democratic and real state - where there will be no discrimination, deprivation, misrule, corruption and injustice," Bangladeshi daily Dhaka Tribune quoted him as saying.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
Heartbreaking to read. My grandfather served in the Indian Army in 1971 and would tell us stories of the refugees. The brutality was unimaginable. Wishing peace and prosperity to our Bangladeshi brothers and sisters.
V
Vikram M
While remembering 1971 is crucial, I hope the current Bangladeshi leadership also focuses on the ideals mentioned - democracy, justice, and no corruption. The best tribute to the martyrs is to build that society they dreamed of.
S
Sarah B
As someone living in India, I see how our histories are intertwined. The 1971 war led to the creation of Bangladesh and was a significant moment for India too. Lessons from such genocides must be taught to prevent future atrocities.
R
Rohit P
Operation Searchlight is a stark reminder of state-sponsored violence. It's good that Bangladesh observes Genocide Day. We must all condemn such acts, anywhere in the world. Humanity above all.
K
Karthik V
The article mentions targeting intellectuals at Dhaka University. That's a classic tactic to break a nation's spirit. Respect to Bangladesh for preserving this memory. Our two countries should continue to strengthen cultural and economic ties.

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