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Published : 28 Mar 2026, 01:54 AM
India has reaffirmed its support for Bangladesh’s pursuit of justice over the atrocities committed by Pakistan during the 1971 Liberation War, again emphasising that the events of that period cannot be overlooked.
Recalling the brutality of the crackdown, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal told The Statesman in a report published on Saturday that the world is aware of the scale of crimes carried out during Operation Searchlight.
“These atrocities shook the conscience of the world. Pakistan, however, remains in denial to this very day of its crimes. We support Bangladesh in its desire for justice…,” he was quoted as saying.
The report said Jaiswal highlighted the mass killings, widespread sexual violence against women, and the displacement of millions into India as refugees during the mass oppression.
Bangladesh has also expressed deep gratitude for India’s decisive role in the liberation struggle.
State Minister for Liberation War Affairs Ishraque Hossain told ANI in Dhaka, “As a citizen of Bangladesh and someone who believes in the spirit of 1971 and our freedom, the help that India extended towards us will always be appreciated.
“India helped us in the war, and because of that support, we were able to save more lives and ultimately achieve victory. We thank India for that.”
Every year, Mar 25 is observed in Bangladesh as Genocide Day to honour the victims of the 1971 crackdown, when Pakistani forces launched Operation Searchlight across Dhaka and other regions, carrying out large-scale killings and destruction.
Mar 26 marks Independence Day, commemorating Bangladesh’s formal declaration of freedom from Pakistan.
India’s involvement was pivotal in securing victory.
Beyond supplying arms and training freedom fighters, Indian forces joined the conflict directly, leading to Pakistan’s surrender on Dec 16, 1971, and the creation of Bangladesh as an independent nation.
The cooperation between the two countries remains central to preserving the memory of those who perished and ensuring accountability for past crimes.
