Bangladesh Prime Minister Tarique Rahman sparked controversy by calling the country's 1971 independence from Pakistan a pre-planned massacre, rather than a genocide. The speech was meant to celebrate independence day, but Rahman's comments have raised questions about the government's handling of the nation's history. The move has been widely criticized by opposition leaders and human rights groups.

“The Great Independence Day inspires us anew with the spirit of courage, sacrifice and patriotism. The fundamental goal of independence was to establish a Bangladesh that is free from discrimination, and to be democratic, peaceful and prosperous,” Tarique Rahman said