New Delhi: Every year on December 16, India and Bangladesh celebrate the Victory Day to commemorate the defeat of the Pakistan Armed Forces in the Bangladesh Liberation War in 1971 which led to the formation of Bangladesh. In India, the day is commemorated as the Vijay Diwas to celebrate the victory of the Indian Armed Forced over the Pakistan Armed Forces in the 1971 India-Pakistan War which decided the outcome of the Bangladesh Liberation War.
Amid the recent tensions between India and Bangladesh due to violence against the minority community in the neighbouring country, a small delegation comprising 10 to 12 people from Bangladesh is set to grace the upcoming Vijay Diwas celebrations in Kolkata. The delegation will reportedly include both freedom fighters from the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War and serving officers of the Bangladesh Armed Forces. The Eastern Command of the Indian Army, headquartered in Kolkata’s Fort William has planned a series of events to commemorate the historic victory including a wreath-laying ceremony at Vijay Smarak.
Why is Vijay Diwas celebrated?
As has been mentioned, Vijay Diwas commemorates the victory of India over Pakistan in the 1971 War which led to the formation of Bangladesh. In 1971, East Pakistan (today’s Bangladesh) fought against Pakistan for its freedom. East Pakistan became liberated and became the sovereign nation called Bangladesh.
India helped East Pakistan and fought against Pakistan with the war lasting for months. It was one of the most violent wars of the 20th century which witnessed large-scale atrocities by the Pakistani Army and the exodus of 10 million refugees and the Pakistani armed forces killing millions of people.
Indian Armed Forces and the Bangladeshi freedom fighters fought bravely and brought Pakistan to its knees. Finally, Pakistan surrendered on December 16, 1971. It happened at Dhaka’s Ramna Race Course, now known as the Suhrawardy Udyan. On behalf of Pakistan, Lieutenant General Amir Abdullah Khan Niazi and on behalf of India, Lieutenant General Jagjit Singh Aurora were the main signatories of the Instrument of Surrender amid thousands of cheering crowds at the racecourse. By signing the Instrument of Surrender, Pakistan accepted defeat in the Bangladesh Liberation War and the 1971 India-Pakistan War.
Vijay Diwas, celebrated annually on December 16, commemorates India’s victory in the 1971 war, leading to Bangladesh’s independence. This year, despite recent tensions, a Bangladeshi delegation will participate in Kolkata’s celebrations. knowledge Knowledge News, Photos and Videos on General Knowledge
