Diplomatic Correspondent

Bangladesh High Commission in Ottawa, Canada on Thursday observed “Martyred Intellectuals Day” with due respect and solemnity at the High Commission Auditorium.

High Commissioner of Bangladesh in Canada Khalilur Rahman presided over the event, which was attended by officials of the High Commission.

At the outset of the programme, a minute of silence was observed in memory of the Father of the Nation, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, his martyred family members, intellectuals who sacrificed their lives, and all 30 lakh martyrs during the war of independence.

Following this, officers from the High Commission read out messages of president and prime minister marking the day.

In his address as chair, the high commissioner recalled 14 December 1971 as a dark day in Bangladesh's history.

He said the Pakistani occupation force with their Bangladeshi accomplices, mercilessly exterminated the nation's brightest minds, including educators, journalists, writers, doctors, scientists, lawyers, artists, engineers, philosophers, and political thinkers to cripple the nation.

The high commissioner highlighted the systematic massacre of intellectuals by the anti-independence forces, including Razakars, Al-Badr, and Al-shams, which commenced on the night of 25 March 1971, and continued until 14 December 1971 two days before the victory.

He emphasised that this heinous act was a desperate attempt to inflict revenge for their impending defeat and to hinder Bangladesh's prosperity.

The high commissioner also cautioned that the same anti-independence forces, under the plea of political agenda, are now resorting to violence, particularly in the run-up to the 12th parliamentary elections.

He asserted that it is the collective responsibility of all to stand up against these forces and safeguard the nation's progress.

The programme concluded with special prayers for the souls of the Father of the Nation, martyred intellectuals, and martyred freedom fighters.