In the investigation report on BDR mutiny killings, the National Independent Investigation Commission, formed to probe the incident, alleged direct involvement of the then-ruling Awami League and strong evidence of external forces' involvement.
The commission submitted its report to Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus today, according to a release from the CA Press Wing. Commission chief Major General (retd) ALM Fazlur Rahman and other members handed over the report at the state guesthouse Jamuna.
Explaining the findings, Major General (retd) Mohammad Jahangir Kabir Talukder said the killings were planned, with Sheikh Fazle Noor Taposh, then a lawmaker, identified as the "chief coordinator".
He claimed the Awami League played a role in protecting those involved, entering the Pilkhana compound with a procession of 20–25 people and leaving with more than 200
He further alleged the incident was carried out with the "green signal" of then-prime minister Sheikh Hasina.
On responsibility, he said accountability lay with the head of the government to the army chief, police, Rab, and intelligence agencies -- showing "utter failure."
He also criticised the role of some media outlets and journalists.
The commission noted that records of BDR members who met with Sheikh Hasina at Jamuna (then-prime minister's residence) during the incident were not properly preserved. It made several recommendations to prevent similar events in the future and ensure justice for victims.
The commission included Brigadier General (retd) Md Saidur Rahman Bir Pratik, Joint Secretary (retd) Munshi Alauddin Al Azad, DIG (retd) Dr M Akbar Ali, Professor Md Shariful Islam of Dhaka University, and Assistant Prof Md Shahnawaz Khan Chandan of Jagannath University.
On the occasion, the chief adviser said, "The nation had long been left in darkness over the BDR killings. The role you have played in uncovering the truth will be remembered by the nation." He added that the report would answer lingering questions and serve as a valuable resource for future generations.
Commission chief Fazlur Rahman said the investigation was conducted with the highest level of professionalism to ensure neutrality and accuracy. He noted that many individuals linked to the mutiny had left the country.
"We summoned witnesses and heard some for up to eight hours. We spoke to those involved in earlier investigations, collected their reports, and gathered other elements," he explained.
Present at the meeting were National Security Adviser Dr Khalilur Rahman, the chief adviser's special assistant on defence and national solidarity development, Lt General (retd) Abdul Hafiz, and Home Secretary Nasimul Gani.
