NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday paid tribute to the brave soldiers of 1971 war, acknowledging their contribution in India’s victory over Pakistan, which reshaped South Asia’s political landscape and led to the creation of Bangladesh as an independent nation.
December 16 is observed nationwide as Vijay Diwas, marking India’s triumph over Pakistan in the 1971 Liberation War. The 13-day conflict concluded with Pakistan’s surrender in Dhaka, leading to the formation of Bangladesh from what was previously East Pakistan.
Taking to X, PM Modi said, “Today, on Vijay Diwas, we honour the courage and sacrifices of the brave soldiers who contributed to India’s historic victory in 1971. Their selfless dedication and unwavering resolve safeguarded our nation and brought glory to us.”
“This day is a tribute to their extraordinary valour and their unshakable spirit. Their sacrifices will forever inspire generations and remain deeply embedded in our nation’s history,” he added.
In a separate post on X, the leader of opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi expressed his admiration for the military forces on Vijay Diwas and said, “On the glorious occasion of Vijay Diwas, I salute the valour, dedication and resolve of our armed forces.”
The nation will always remember the indomitable courage and supreme sacrifice of all the heroes of the 1971 war who liberated Bangladesh from injustice while protecting the sovereignty of India, he added.
The officers from the Indian Armed Forces, along with their counterparts from the Bangladesh Army, laid wreaths at Vijay Smarak, Army Headquarters Eastern Command, in Kolkata, West Bengal.
Personnel from the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force participated in the Vijay Diwas celebrations, paying their respects at the Eastern Command headquarters. As part of the commemoration, flowers were also dropped from helicopters at the Vijay Smarak, Fort William.
President Droupadi Murmu, who is also the Supreme Commander of the armed forces, acknowledged that the soldiers’ supreme sacrifice will forever remain a source of national pride.
“On Vijay Diwas, I pay homage to our valiant soldiers who displayed indomitable courage during the 1971 war, securing victory for India. A grateful nation remembers the ultimate sacrifice of our brave-hearts whose stories inspire every Indian and shall remain a source of national pride,” Murmu said in a post on ‘X’.
At the National War Memorial, defence minister Rajnath Singh offering his respects said, “Today, on the special occasion of Vijay Diwas, the nation salutes the bravery and sacrifice of India’s armed forces.”
“Their unwavering courage and patriotism ensured that our country remained safe. India will never forget their sacrifice and service,” he added.
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