Army chief urges against disrupting trial process of Pilkhana killings

Army Chief Urges Against Disrupting Pilkhana Massacre Trial Process

Chief of Army Staff General Waker-Uz-Zaman on Tuesday called on everyone to refrain from disrupting the judicial process of the Pilkhana massacre.

“Do not interfere with the judicial proceedings. It is essential to remember that those who have been sentenced must face the consequences,” he stated.

Speaking at a commemoration ceremony at Helmet Hall of the RAOWA Club in Dhaka, General Waker-Uz-Zaman paid tribute to the 57 army officers and their family members who were killed in the 2009 tragedy.

Reflecting on the painful memories of February 25, 2009, he said, “Today is a day of sorrow. On this day, we lost 57 courageous army officers and some of their family members. I was looking at their pictures on my way here. You may have seen them in photographs, but I witnessed the brutality firsthand. I am a direct witness to these atrocities.”

He firmly stated that no army personnel were involved in the killings. “We must always remember that this massacre was entirely carried out by the then BDR members—there is no room for doubt or speculation.”

The army chief warned that questioning the legitimacy of the ongoing trial, which has continued for 16-17 years, could undermine justice. “If we keep raising doubts, it will only disrupt the trial process and affect those who have been serving sentences for nearly 17 years. We must be very clear about this—do not derail the trial. Those convicted must face their punishment.”

Addressing concerns about potential external involvement, General Waker-Uz-Zaman mentioned that a commission has been formed to investigate whether any political leadership or foreign forces played a role in the carnage. “The commission chairman is present here. He will investigate and share the findings.”

He also cautioned against misinterpretations and efforts to distort the narrative. “The fact remains that our fallen soldiers were killed by BDR personnel. Some individuals are trying to redirect the narrative, but this will not benefit us.”

Offering advice, the army chief emphasized unity and discipline. “I urge you to stay united and avoid internal divisions. Differences in opinion should be resolved through discussion, not prolonged conflict. Lingering disputes will bring no benefit—only harm.”

Regarding force members who claimed to have been unfairly punished since 2009, he stated, “A board, led by a lieutenant general, reviewed 51 cases, and I accepted more than half of the recommendations. The Navy and Air Force are also conducting their reviews. My stance is clear—anyone guilty of a crime will not be spared. This is a disciplined force, and it must remain so.”

Highlighting the role of discipline in sustaining the armed forces during national crises, he said, “While many institutions have struggled in difficult times, the army, navy, and air force have remained strong because of discipline. I have instructed my officers that even the slightest doubt regarding a convicted individual's involvement should work in their favor. This is my clear directive.”

He assured that cases would be reviewed fairly. “I have received various proposals, and I have personally contributed to some. Officers will continue to bring their concerns, and I will address them as needed. We will uphold ethical standards, Inshallah.”

In a direct address to the audience, General Waker-Uz-Zaman spoke candidly. “Please do not take offense, but I want to speak openly today. Some of you may not like it, but trust me, if you accept what I say, it will benefit you. My only wish is to leave this position having contributed to a stronger nation. After seven or eight months in this role, I have had enough. I want to see the country and the nation in a better state before we return to the barracks.”