Genocide Day is being observed across Bangladesh on Saturday — recalling the brutalities of the Pakistan army during Operation Searchlight, launched on the night of March 25 in 1971 as a last resort to try and suppress the will of the people of what would become, in less than nine months, an independent Bangladesh.
On the night of March 25 in 1971, the Pakistani military junta resorted to mass killings and arson in Dhaka to implement their blueprint to stop the Awami League from assuming office following its victory in the 1970 election.
In the attack dubbed Operation Searchlight, the Pakistani forces mercilessly killed Bangali members of the East Pakistan Rifles and police, students, teachers and common people.
They killed indiscriminately, set houses on fire and looted business establishments, leaving a trail of destruction.
The night also witnessed Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman's proclamation of independence before he was arrested by the Pakistani troops and subsequently flown to West Pakistan.
The day is being observed as Genocide Day officially for the seventh year in the country since parliament unanimously adopted a resolution on March 11, 2017.
President Md Abdul Hamid and Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina issued separate messages on this occasion.
Political parties took up programs in observance of the day.
Cultural organizations arranged seminars, programs and performances on genocide.
Bangladesh Betar and Bangladesh Television as well as private TV channels and radio stations are airing special programs while national dailies published supplements marking the day. Meanwhile, religious establishments will hold special prayers for the martyrs.