The Bangladesh High Commission in New Delhi observed the Genocide Day with due veneration and solemnity today. The day was observed to commemorate one of the brutal, barbaric and heinous massacres of human history carried out by the then Pakistani occupation forces on the unarmed and innocent Bangalees on the dark night of 25 March 1971 under the so-called ‘Operation Searchlight’.

On the occasion of the day, a discussion programme was organized at the Bangabandhu Hall of the High Commission. At the beginning, a moment of silence was observed to pay tribute to the memory of the Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and the martyrs who made supreme sacrificeduring the great Liberation War, including those who were mercilessly killed on the night of 25 March 1971.

 The messages issued by the President and Prime Minister on the occasion of the day were read out by the Mission officials. A documentary film on the 1971 genocide was also screened.

 In his remarks, Md. Mustafizur Rahman, High Commissioner of Bangladesh to India, highlighted the background of the Genocide Day and said that although the day is observed nationally, it has international significance and relevance. He said, “In addition to remembering the victims of genocide in various countries of the world, including Bangladesh, the scope and significance of this day is far-reaching, particularly in ensuring the end of genocide from the world and the justice of the perpetrators.”

 After the discussion session, a special prayer was offered for the salvation of the souls of the Father of the Nation, martyrs of 25 March 1971 and others who played a historical role in all stages of movements for freedom and Liberation War of Bangladesh as well as well as for the peace, progress and prosperity of the country under the leadership of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.

 Officials and employees from the Bangladesh High Commission and expatriate Bangladeshis were present at the event.