The nation is solemnly observing ‘Genocide Day’ today (Tuesday), commemorating the horrific atrocities committed by the Pakistan occupation army on the night of March 25, 1971.
This day stands as a grim reminder of one of the darkest chapters in Bangladesh’s history when the Pakistani military indiscriminately massacred unarmed Bangalis, including students, teachers and police personnel.
Marking the occasion, Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus on Monday paid tribute to the martyrs who laid down their lives, emphasising that their sacrifices paved the way for the country's hard-earned independence through a nine-month-long War of Liberation.
“The ‘New Bangladesh’ will emerge as a strong, peaceful, and democratic country—this is our pledge on Genocide Day,” he said.
In a message, Dr Yunus reflected on the brutality of March 25, 1971, stating, “On this night, the Pakistani invading forces carried out one of the most barbaric crackdowns in history across the country, including Dhaka. With a heavy heart, I remember all the martyrs who sacrificed their lives on that terrible night.”
Genocide Day: Nation to observe one minute ‘blackout’ at 10:30 pm on March 25 night
He noted that the nation continues to grieve the massacre. Recalling the tense days of March 1971, Dr Yunus mentioned that, as Bangladesh was in the throes of a mass movement, military dictator Yahya Khan secretly left Dhaka on the evening of March 25. That same night, the Pakistani forces launched ‘Operation Searchlight,’ unleashing a brutal assault on unarmed civilians.
As part of the observance, a one-minute nationwide ‘Blackout’ is scheduled from 10:30 pm to 10:31 pm today. However, Key Point Installations (KPIs) and emergency establishments will remain exempt, according to a Press Information Department handout. Besides, no decorative lighting will be permitted at government, semi-government, autonomous, or private institutions tonight.
Seminars on the genocide and the Liberation War are being held at the Liberation War Museum and other venues, providing a platform for in-depth discussions on the nation’s history.
Rare photographs and documentaries showcasing the genocide are being exhibited in Dhaka and other city corporation areas to educate and raise awareness about this dark period.
Genocide Day: Dr Yunus remembers martyrs of Pakistan's brutal crackdown
Bangladesh Television and Bangladesh Betar are airing special programmes related to the genocide and the Liberation War.
Special prayers are also being held at mosques and other places of worship after Zuhr prayers or at a convenient time, remembering those who perished on the night of March 25, 1971.