Experts, intellectuals hold Pakistan accountable for Bangladesh war crimes in 1971

They remarked ahead of the Genocide Remembrance Day.

The experts made the remarks during a webinar titled ‘Recognition of the Bangladesh Genocide’ was organised by the Bangladesh History Olympiad and Mukto Ashor, a prominent non-governmental organisation from Bangladesh on Sunday.

During the event, educators, researchers, social activists, and authors discussed the atrocities and brutalities faced by the people of East Pakistan.

On March 25, 1971, 53 years ago, the West Pakistani army, along with local collaborators, perpetrated horrific atrocities in Bangladesh. The event participants paid tributes and respects to those who fell that day. The targets were civilians, including students, women, and children, reported ANI.

It is estimated that as many as 3,000,000 Bengalis from East Pakistan (now Bangladesh) were killed during the nine-month war of liberation in 1971

Priyajit Debsarkar, an author from London and the event’s host, told ANI, “On March 26th, 1971, about 53 years ago, the West Pakistani army, along with local collaborators, perpetrated horrific atrocities in Bangladesh. Their targets were civilians, including students, women, and children, who eagerly anticipated the restoration of democracy after the General Election of 1970. This marked the beginning of the liberation war of Bangladesh in 1971.”

Debsarkar added, “The impact of these actions in 1971 continues to resonate deeply, shaping the world today. Gary Bass, an American Diplomat stationed in Dhaka and author of ‘Blood Telegram,’ labelled it a ‘Forgotten Genocide,’ yet a new generation is rising, demanding justice.”

Stephane Michot, the President of IDEAL International Foundation in Paris and a renowned international lawyer, said:  “1971 was an event that not only shaped the destiny of Bangladesh but also left indelible marks on the conscience of humanity. It is our shared duty to honor the memory of those who suffered, to acknowledge the resilience of the survivors, and to recommit ourselves to the principles of justice and human rights for all.”

Christopher Blackburn, an associate of the Bangladesh Europe Foundation from London, through a video submission stated as quoted by ANI, “we continuously strive to recognize the genocide of Bangladesh. It is crucial to acknowledge the role of India who stood in the dark times. The liberation war of 1971 was carried out by Pakistan and its associates. They have escaped justice for too long. Today, Bangladesh is a global contributor to global peace. The United Nations must act as its silence speaks volumes. Bangladesh has become the real Asian tiger. Anthony Blinken, the US Secretary-General, has recognised the 1971 atrocities. Hence to recognize the genocide. A new generation is demanding justice, it’s not forgotten, and silence is not an option.”

Bob Lancia, a former American legislator, and an educator in Rhode Island, US, told ANI, “At the end of the day, we are talking about humans, living beings who want to live in peace. The genocide of 1971 was an unmitigated disaster.”