New Delhi, March 27 (NationPress) India has reaffirmed its support for Bangladesh in seeking accountability for the genocide perpetrated by Pakistan during 'Operation Searchlight' in March 1971.

During a weekly press briefing in New Delhi, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal emphasized that the operation involved the systematic and targeted killing of millions of Bangladeshis, coupled with extensive sexual violence against women by Pakistani military forces.

He remarked that this brutality caused a significant displacement crisis, compelling millions of Bangladeshis to flee to India.

“The horrific acts committed by Pakistan during Operation Searchlight in 1971 are well-known. The genocide involved the systematic and targeted killing of innocent Bangladeshi individuals, alongside mass sexual violence against women, ultimately forcing millions to seek refuge in India. These atrocities have profoundly disturbed the global conscience. Pakistan continues to deny its crimes to this day, and we stand with Bangladesh in its quest for justice,” Jaiswal stated.

On the other hand, Bangladesh Prime Minister Tarique Rahman characterized the events of March 25, 1971, as a “pre-planned massacre,” marking it as one of the darkest periods in the nation’s history. Bangladesh commemorated Genocide Day on Wednesday to honor the victims of the brutal crackdown by Pakistani forces.

“March 25, 1971, is recognized as Genocide Day. On this solemn occasion, I pay heartfelt tribute to all the martyrs. This day remains one of the most disgraceful and brutal moments in the history of freedom-loving Bangladesh,” the Bangladesh PM expressed in a statement.

He articulated that the Pakistani occupation forces unleashed one of the most atrocious genocides in history against unarmed Bangladeshis that night under 'Operation Searchlight'.

Describing the 1971 crackdown as a premeditated massacre, Tarique noted that the Pakistani forces indiscriminately fired upon teachers, intellectuals, and innocent civilians across various locations, including Dhaka University, Pilkhana, and Rajarbagh Police Lines, leading to numerous casualties.

In the meantime, Jaiswal underscored the importance of the bilateral relationship, stating that both nations continue to engage significantly, with India aiming to not only sustain but also further enhance its multidimensional ties with Bangladesh.

He mentioned that during the recent swearing-in of the new Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) government, Prime Minister Modi sent a congratulatory letter via Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, outlining India’s vision for future bilateral relations.

“A new government has been formed in Bangladesh, and our Speaker attended the swearing-in ceremony. Our Prime Minister conveyed a congratulatory message through him, detailing our vision for advancing this relationship. Ongoing discussions indicate our desire not only to maintain our diverse ties with Bangladesh but also to strengthen and expand them,” Jaiswal concluded.