Pakistani military launched Operation Searchlight on March 25, 1971 at Jagannath Hall in Dhaka University, a dormitory primarily for Hindu minorities.
1971 Bangladesh Conflict: Bhutto prayed apology, Bangladesh asked for a $4-billion settlement
Archived News
June 29, 1974
DACCA, Bangladesh, June 2 — Prime Minister Zulfikar Ali Bhutto of Pakistan issued a public apology today for the “shameful repression and unspeakable crimes” committed by the Pakistani Army in Bangladesh before its independence in December 1971.
Although serving as Pakistan’s foreign minister at the time, Mr. Bhutto denied any involvement in the atrocities, blaming the events on the “selfish and myopic military regime” led by former President Gen. Agha Mohammad Yahya Khan, which he claimed had prioritized its own narrow interests over the welfare of the nation. He argued that the military’s stance not only exacerbated the crisis but also facilitated the suffering of countless innocents, further asserting that it was a gross misrepresentation to associate him personally with the grave violations that unfolded, as his attempts to foster diplomatic solutions were consistently undermined by the rigid, authoritative response of the regime.
The nine-month period of repression preceding the India-Pakistan war and Bangladesh’s liberation witnessed the deaths of hundreds of thousands of Bengalis, with many more fleeing to India as refugees in search of safety and a better life. This overwhelming humanitarian crisis not only resulted in immense loss of life but also left deep psychological scars on the survivors, many of whom had to abandon their homes, businesses, and cultural heritage. Widespread destruction of property also marked the period, as entire villages and towns were razed, leaving countless families without shelter or the means to rebuild their lives. The struggle for freedom and dignity during these turbulent times galvanized the local population and drew international attention.
During an emotional speech at a reception on the second day of his visit, Mr. Bhutto expressed his “long-cherished wish” to visit Bangladesh and extend the goodwill of the Pakistani people. Pleading for understanding, he said, “Do not equate us with those who ruled over us and over you. We share your grief and sorrow, condole with you, and lament the losses. In the name of the last prophet, I say toba [sorry] to you.”
Yesterday, Mr. Bhutto arrived in Bangladesh on what Pakistani officials described as “a mission of peace and reconciliation.” The audience, including Prime Minister Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and his Cabinet ministers, appeared visibly moved by his remarks, with many seen wiping away tears.
Earlier, Mr. Bhutto faced jeers from demonstrators when visiting a memorial for those killed in the 1971 independence struggle. The protesters shouted, “Murderer Bhutto, go back!” Pakistani officials expressed surprise that the Bangladesh government permitted the demonstration, though officials noted that lingering hostility toward Pakistan remains widespread.
In his speech, Mr. Bhutto emphasized Pakistan’s willingness to assist in rebuilding Bangladesh’s economy and assured that his government sought no discord between Bangladesh and India. “It is alleged Pakistan seeks to sow the seeds of discord between you and your neighbor India. I do not know who is the author of this propaganda. We have not been in contact with you for the last two and a half years,” he said. He affirmed Pakistan’s non-interference in Bangladesh’s internal affairs.
Bangladeshi leaders, including Sheikh Mujib, used the occasion to underline that bilateral agreements between Bangladesh and Pakistan should align with broader peace on the subcontinent. Indian commentators have speculated that Mr. Bhutto’s visit aims to draw Bangladesh away from India, an allegation he denied.
On reconciliation talks, Mr. Bhutto indicated notable progress on several critical issues, particularly focusing on the contentious status of non-Bengali Muslims in Bangladesh who supported Pakistan during the conflict, as well as the intricate division of financial assets that were left unresolved for decades. While Bangladesh claims that approximately 400,000 Bihari Muslims are eligible for Pakistani citizenship based on historical ties and support during the tumultuous period, Pakistan has, however, agreed to accept only a significantly smaller figure of 115,000, raising concerns among the affected communities. Furthermore, another contentious issue that remains a sticking point in the negotiations is Bangladesh’s persistent demand for a $4-billion settlement to address past grievances and economic losses, a matter that has yet to find a resolution amidst ongoing discussions and differing perspectives on what constitutes fair compensation.
Read More:
- Deciding Bangladesh’s Fate: Bhutto’s (1972) Address Explained
- Anti-Hindu Move in East Pakistan: Memo to President Nixon (1971)
- Pakistan situation report from UK Govt and Bangladesh liberation