“Genocide Day” is being observed in the country on Monday (25th March) to commemorate the brutalities of the Pakistan army during Operation Searchlight, launched on the night of March 25 in 1971. This operation aimed to suppress the will of the people of what would become an independent Bangladesh in less than nine months.
On the Black Night of March 25, 1971, the Pakistani military junta engaged in mass killings and arson in Dhaka to thwart the Awami League’s assumption of office following the election mandate of 1970. The attack, known as ‘Operation Searchlight’, saw the merciless killing of Bangalee members of the East Pakistan Rifles, police, students, teachers, and civilians. The Pakistani forces acted indiscriminately, setting fire to homes, looting businesses, and leaving a trail of destruction.
The night also witnessed Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’s proclamation of independence before he was arrested by Pakistani troops and flown to West Pakistan. This marks the eighth official observance of Genocide Day in the country since the unanimous adoption of a resolution by Parliament on March 11, 2017.
President Mohammed Shahabuddin and Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina issued separate messages on this occasion. Political parties, cultural organizations, and media outlets are holding various programs and events to honor the day, while religious organizations are offering prayers for the souls of the deceased.
