India on Monday marked the 54th anniversary of its decisive victory in 13-day 1971 war, a historic triumph that led to the birth of Bangladesh as an independent nation. The conflict followed India’s intervention to assist millions of refugees who had fled Pakistan’s brutal crackdown on Bengali nationalists.
Leaders across India, from Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, paid tribute to the Indian Army, Navy and Air Force, as well as the Mukti Bahini guerrillas, lauding their courage, flawless coordination and the swift capture of Dhaka.
In Bangladesh, Victory Day was also observed with solemn ceremonies, including wreath-laying events, reflecting the shared sacrifices of 1971 and underscoring the enduring bond and military resolve between the two nations.