Amid strained relations between India and Bangladesh, sources said on Friday that uncertainty has grown over the possible presence of Bangladesh’s 1971 war freedom fighter Mukti Jodhas at the upcoming Victory Day celebrations for the first time in 53 years.
The Eastern Army Command will organize a series of events on Victory Day on December 16 to commemorate the victory of the Indian Armed Forces in the 1971 war against Pakistan, a senior official said. The victory of the war gave birth to Bangladesh.
The official program released on Friday outlines a visit by Indian army veterans, a wreath-laying ceremony, and a military tattoo – a musical performance and an armed forces parade – but does not mention the Bangladesh delegation.
Major General General Staff (MGGS), Headquarters Eastern Command, Major General Mohit Seth said that a wreath will be laid at the Victory Memorial on the day Pakistan’s Eastern Army surrenders in Dhaka.
Addressing a press conference at Fort William, headquarters of the Eastern Command in Kolkata, he said, “War veterans who participated in the 1971 war will participate in the event.”
Asked whether Mukti Jodha and serving officers of the Bangladesh Army would participate in the Victory Day celebrations in Kolkata, a practice that has been going on for years, MGGS Seth said, “We will inform you.”
In Kolkata, every year, war veterans share memories, anecdotes and stories of heroism at the Victory Day event.
MGGS Seth acknowledged the important role played by the Mukti Bahini, which included the Muktijodhas, and also emphasized India’s role in the release of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. Recalling the battle, he said, “In the eastern theater, with the brave comrades of Muktijodh and the civilian population of East Pakistan, the pace and power of the Indian offensive finally forced the surrender of the Pakistani armed forces in the East. Pakistan. This remarkable achievement demonstrates our strong national will and commitment to support our friends.
– with PTI