Dear All, I believe that this is our great achievement that Imran Khan of Pakistan demanded Pakistan s unconditional apology to Bangladesh for killing people of Bangladesh (then East Pakistan) in 1971 by Pakistani army. He told this on 23 rd March (Pakistan day) during the cricket match between Pakistan and West Indies at Mirpur Stadium in Dhaka while giving interview with Mr. Hamid Mir (a Pakistani journalist). Mr. Hamid Mir told that most of the Pakistni is for apology to Bangladesh. Specially Pakistani army officers, journalists and bureaucrats who worked in Bangladesh before our independence are more vocal for apology. Imran Khan repeatedly said, "Bangladeshis our brother and sisters and they will support Pakistan in the match. He also reminded his visit to Bangladesh and thanked people for their love extended to him. Imran Khan told that activities of Pakistani army in 1971 created hatrat and pain. It was not only crime but a blunder. Both Hamid Mir and Imran khan told that seeking apology to Bangladesh is not weakness rather it will strengthen Pakistan. Hamid Mir also criticized Sarmila Bose for distorting the history and said that it is the matter between Bangladesh and Pakistan and other people (pointing to Bose) should not interfere in this matter. I also request Sarmila Bose to seek apology for distorting the history. There may have debate about the number of people killed or raped by Pakistani army in 1971 but there are many many evidence of killing innocent people and rape. We can debate but not divide and we should be united for truth and peace. I request every Bangladeshi to remain united on national issue. Some of we may support AL or BNP or other party but we should work together on national interest. Let us try our best so that Pakistan seek apology to Bangladesh. I thank Imran Khan and Hamid Mir for their effort to establish truth. Dr. Mahboob Hossain BRAC University |
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