Starvation is a war crime. So why is it so rarely prosecuted?
Summary
In 1943, a severe famine in Bengal, India, under British colonial rule, led to the deaths of millions. The British government’s actions, such as blockading food supplies, worsened the famine. Despite laws against using starvation as a weapon, it remains hard to prosecute because proving intent is complex.Key Facts
- In 1943, Bengal experienced a famine that killed thousands weekly.
- India was under British colonial rule and part of World War II efforts.
- Colonial policies destroyed food supplies to prevent Japanese access.
- The British government refused a request to send sufficient grain aid to Bengal.
- Approximately three million people died from starvation and related epidemics.
- Press reports about the famine were censored to downplay its severity.
- International law prohibits starvation as a warfare method, but it's hard to prosecute.
- Proving intent is difficult because starvation is slow and linked to policies rather than direct violence.
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