Shajahan-led social org submits memo to JS Speaker

Staff Correspondent

A pro-liberation social organisation yesterday provided a memorandum to the speaker of parliament to press home a 10-point demand, including trial of former officers of Pakistan's armed forces who allegedly committed war crimes during the 1971 Liberation War.

Led by Shipping Minister Shajahan Khan, Antorjatik Juddhaporadh Gonobichar Andolon first organised a rally in front of the capital's Jatiya Press Club, blocking the thoroughfare for around one hour and causing immense traffic gridlock.

Addressing the rally, Shajahan said Pakistan violated the tripartite agreement of 1974, following which 195 Pakistani prisoners of war (POWs) were repatriated, as its president did seek pardon from Bangladeshis and it did not repatriate citizens stranded in Bangladesh.

Since the agreement ceased to have effect, the former officers must be brought to book, he added.

Accusing Pakistan of still conspiring to patronise militancy in Bangladesh, the organisation demanded that the Bangladesh government reconsiders the extent of the diplomatic relations it wants to maintain.

On Tuesday, the organisation revealed a list of 200 officers, saying they found five more to have been involved in war crimes.

Starting around 3:00pm, the rally was followed by a procession, comprising several hundred followers, ending at Shahbagh leaving vehicles trundling behind. Some representatives then took the memorandum to the Speaker.

The organisation sought formulation of a law making derogatory comments on the Liberation War, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, martyred freedom fighters, national anthem and national flag a criminal offence.

Other demands include confiscating convicted war criminals' properties, banning Jamaat-e-Islami and associate organisations, sending back stranded Pakistanis and taking necessary steps to ensure that Pakistan pays compensation for the genocide, rapes, lootings and arson in 1971.