India has strongly backed Bangladesh's quest for justice for atrocities committed by Pakistan during the 1971 liberation war. The external affairs ministry referred to the 'terrible atrocities' perpetrated by Pakistan, including the killing of millions of Bangladeshis and mass sexual violence against women.
India's support comes as Bangladesh observed 'Genocide Day' on March 25 to pay tribute to those killed in 1971. Bangladesh Prime Minister Tarique Rahman described the Pakistani military's crackdown on the nationalist movement as 'one of the most heinous genocides in history'.
Pakistan, however, remains in denial of its crimes, with its foreign ministry spokesperson calling for constructive engagement based on objectivity and mutual respect. Bangladesh has long sought an apology from Pakistan for the killings and sexual violence, but Islamabad has routinely spurned such requests.
