- विज्ञापन -
Dhaka: Eight Indian veterans from the 1971 Liberation War in Bangladesh arrived in Dhaka, while eight Bangladeshi army officers traveled to Kolkata as part of the Vijay Diwas celebrations in both countries, officials reported. The delegations, including two active-duty officers from each side, reached their respective destinations on Sunday.
The Bangladeshi delegation included Mukti Jodhas, members of the guerrilla resistance against Pakistani rule during the war.
These events come amid rising tensions following reported violence against the Hindu minority in Bangladesh after the ousting of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s Awami League government in a student-led uprising on August 5. Hasina is currently in India after fleeing the country. While the interim government led by Muhammad Yunus denies significant communal violence, it is noted that Hindus make up about eight percent of the Bangladeshi population.
According to a political analyst in Dhaka, “The exchange of veterans serves to remind us of the friendship forged in 1971.” His comments reflect the easing of tensions following Indian External Affairs Secretary Vikram Misri’s recent visit to Dhaka for foreign office consultations with Jashim Uddin, which included meetings with Yunus and his de facto Foreign Minister, Touhid Hossain.
The annual exchange of veterans underscores mutual goodwill between the nations, especially as both celebrate their victory over Pakistan on December 16, 1971. Each year, war veterans and active-duty officers from both countries are invited to participate in these commemorations.
Bangladesh observes March 26 as Independence Day, but it was on December 16 that Dhaka became the capital of a free nation after enduring nine months of war with critical support from India.
The Indian High Commission remarked that these annual exchanges provide a significant platform for Mukti Jodhas and Liberation War veterans to celebrate the unique relationship between the two nations. The commemoration renews memories of the Liberation War, highlighting the mutual sacrifices made by India and Bangladesh in the fight against oppression and atrocities.
Vijay Diwas is celebrated not only as a military triumph but also as a testament to India’s commitment to justice and humanitarian values. The conflict showcased India’s ability to respond decisively to aggression and underscored its role as a regional power while emphasizing the importance of military readiness and strategic diplomacy. In Bangladesh, this day is recognized as Victory Day, a national holiday celebrating their liberation. This shared history on December 16 reinforces the lasting bond between India and Bangladesh.
