Tarique says lists of 1971 martyrs, freedom fighters were prepared politically

He says his government has taken necessary measures to compile “correct” lists

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman says the lists of freedom fighters and martyrs were prepared on political grounds after Bangladesh's independence.

Speaking during the Prime Minister's Questions (PMQs) in parliament on Wednesday, he said the people responsible for the lists were not impartial and his government has formed a committee to address the issue.

"After independence, those responsible were meant to prepare an accurate list of martyrs and freedom fighters. Instead, they compiled it on political grounds rather than impartially," Tarique said.

After the victory in the Liberation War in 1971, the Awami League formed the government.

However, the initiative to prepare the list of freedom fighters was taken in 1984 during the reign of the then military dictator Hussain Muhammad Ershad. The list was revised by following governments.

The prime minister said, "We’ve already formed a committee with experts from the Ministry of Liberation War Affairs to identify the real freedom fighters and martyrs."

He also reiterated her party's election pledge to compile a “complete list” of martyrs of the Liberation War, saying they have already taken necessary measures.

"Through the implementation of the initiatives, it will be possible to compile an accurate and acceptable list of genocide victims and all martyrs, and to provide due recognition and dignity to their sacrifice," said the premier.