Bangladesh war crimes trial opens

20 November 2011
Last updated at 12:05 ET

Mr Sayedee is among seven facing trial in the Bangladesh capital Dhaka

A leader of a Bangladesh Islamist party has gone on trial accused of crimes against humanity during the country’s independence struggle against Pakistan.

Delawar Hossain Sayedee is the first of seven suspects set to face a tribunal on charges relating to the 1971 war.

Charges listed against him include genocide, rape and religious persecution – all of which he denies.

The chief prosecutor said the trial, which resumes on Monday, was essential for the establishment of democracy.

BBC correspondent Anbarasan Ethirajan said it marked a watershed moment for Bangladesh, which has yet to come fully to terms with its violent past.

The special court will try Bangladeshis accused of collaborating with Pakistani forces, who were trying to stop Bangladesh becoming an independent nation.

‘Vendetta’

More than three million people were killed and many more were left homeless, according to official figures.

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