Veterans from India and Bangladesh Commemorate Vijay Diwas Through Exchange Visit
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Dhaka, Dec 16 (NationPress) Eight Indian military veterans from Bangladesh's 1971 Liberation War have arrived in Dhaka, while an equal number of Bangladesh Army officers have made their way to Kolkata to partake in the celebrations for Vijay Diwas in both nations, according to officials.
The delegations from each country include two active officers, as noted by officials from Bangladesh and the Indian High Commission in Dhaka. They reached their respective destinations on Sunday.
The Bangladeshi delegation consists of Mukti Jodhas, who were instrumental in the guerrilla resistance against Pakistani rule during the conflict.
This exchange visit and the accompanying celebrations are taking place amidst tensions related to reported violence against the minority Hindu community in Bangladesh, following the removal of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's Awami League government during a student-led uprising on August 5. Hasina has since sought refuge in India.
The interim administration of Muhammad Yunus has categorically denied any significant communal unrest. Hindus represent approximately eight percent of Bangladesh's population.
“This veterans' exchange serves as a reminder of the friendship established in 1971,” remarked a political analyst in Dhaka.
He further noted that Indian External Affairs Secretary Vikram Misri's brief visit to Dhaka on December 9 for consultations with his Bangladeshi counterpart Jashim Uddin helped alleviate some tensions in bilateral relations, as he also met with Yunus and de facto Foreign Minister Touhid Hossain.
“The veterans’ visit is anticipated to showcase the goodwill shared between the two nations,” the analyst added.
Every year, both India and Bangladesh commemorate their victory over Pakistan on December 16, 1971, inviting each other's war veterans and currently serving officers to join in the festivities.
While Bangladesh observes its Independence Day on March 26, it was on December 16 that Dhaka emerged as the capital of a liberated nation following a nine-month Liberation War, significantly aided by India.
“These annual visits foster a platform for Mukti Jodhas and veterans of the Liberation War to celebrate the unique camaraderie between the two countries,” stated the Indian High Commission.
It further emphasized that this occasion rekindles memories of the Liberation War, which symbolizes the collective sacrifices made by the armed forces of both India and Bangladesh in their fight for liberation from oppression and atrocities.
Vijay Diwas is not merely a celebration of military triumph but also a testament to India's dedication to justice and humanitarian principles. The war demonstrated India's ability to respond decisively to aggression while advocating for oppressed groups, enhancing its stature as a regional power and underscoring the significance of military readiness and strategic diplomacy.
In Bangladesh, the day is celebrated as Victory Day, a national holiday honoring their liberation. The shared history of December 16 serves to reinforce the lasting bond between India and Bangladesh.
