The government has responded to Narendra Modi’s controversial Victory Day post.
On Wednesday, the Ministry of External Affairs issued a statement titled “History Facts” to counter Modi’s remarks. The statement highlighted Bangladesh’s struggle for independence, emphasizing that the nation emerged as a sovereign state on December 16, 1971, following a nine-month-long brutal war.
Citing the book Liberation and Beyond: Indo-Bangladesh Relations by the late J.N. Dixit, a former Indian Foreign Secretary, the statement noted a critical historical oversight during the war. Dixit wrote about the absence of General M.A.G. Osmani, the leader of Bangladesh’s Joint Command, at the surrender ceremony of Pakistani forces. The statement alleged that Osmani’s helicopter was deliberately misdirected, preventing him from reaching Dhaka on time. As a result, the spotlight remained on Indian military commanders during the ceremony.
This incident, described as a “political blunder” by Dixit, fueled discontent within Bangladesh’s political circles at the time. The statement stressed that Osmani’s presence could have avoided misunderstandings that later strained India-Bangladesh relations.
The Ministry’s statement concluded with a powerful message: “We celebrate our glorious victory in 1971. We celebrate the truth.”
The controversy began on Monday, when Narendra Modi posted a message on his verified Facebook and X (formerly Twitter) accounts. In the post, he praised India’s 1971 victory, saying:
“Today, on Victory Day, we pay tribute to the courage and sacrifice of the brave soldiers who contributed to India’s historic victory in 1971. Their selfless sacrifice and unwavering resolve saved our nation and brought us glory. This day is a tribute to their extraordinary heroism and indomitable spirit. Their sacrifice will forever inspire generations and will remain deeply embedded in the history of our nation.”
The post notably omitted any mention of Bangladesh’s Liberation War, framing the victory as solely an Indian achievement. Several advisors to Bangladesh’s interim government have criticized Modi’s remarks as dismissive and irresponsible.
Victory Day remains a deeply significant occasion for Bangladesh, commemorating the country’s independence and honoring the sacrifices of those who fought for its freedom.
Do Follow: greenbanglaonline24
