Vijay Diwas, celebrated on December 16 every year, marks a defining moment in the history of both India and Bangladesh—commemorating India's decisive military victory in the 1971 Indo-Pakistani war and the subsequent creation of Bangladesh. This day celebrates the triumph of Indian armed forces, in collaboration with the Mukti Bahini (Liberation Army), in the Bangladesh Liberation War, which ended the brutal oppression of East Pakistan by the Pakistan Army and gave birth to a new, independent nation—Bangladesh. However, as we reflect on this crucial day, contemporary developments in Bangladesh are shaking the foundations of this historical relationship, especially in light of the recent political upheaval in Dhaka, which saw the ousting of Sheikh Hasina's regime. This editorial will delve into the importance of Vijay Diwas for both nations, the atrocities committed during the 1971 conflict, the contributions of the Indian Army and Mukti Bahini, and the impact of recent political developments in Bangladesh.

The events leading up to the 1971 war and the atrocities committed by the Pakistan Army are among the darkest chapters in South Asian history. East Pakistan, with a majority Bengali population, had long been subjected to neglect and discrimination by the ruling West Pakistani establishment. Despite being the majority population, Bengalis were denied political representation, economic resources, and cultural recognition. The discontent among the people of East Pakistan culminated in the general elections of 1970, where Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’s Awami League won an overwhelming majority, securing 160 of the 162 seats allotted to East Pakistan in the National Assembly. However, the West Pakistani military junta, led by General Yahya Khan, refused to hand over power to the Awami League, leading to widespread protests and calls for autonomy in East Pakistan. In March 1971, Pakistan’s military launched "Operation Searchlight," a brutal crackdown aimed at crushing the rebellion. This operation involved widespread atrocities, including mass killings, rapes, and the displacement of millions of people. It is estimated that up to three million Bengalis were killed, and over 200,000 women were raped by the Pakistan Army. These events have been widely described as genocide, as the Pakistan Army deliberately targeted Bengali intellectuals, students, and Hindus, hoping to crush the spirit of independence. As a result, millions of refugees fled to neighbouring India, creating a dire humanitarian crisis. The Indian government, under Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, responded to these developments not only out of humanitarian concern but also due to the looming security threat posed by the conflict on its eastern border. It became clear that the Pakistan Army’s actions were not only an affront to humanity but also a challenge to regional stability. Amidst the atrocities of the Pakistan Army, the people of East Pakistan rose under the leadership of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, whom the Pakistani military had arrested in the initial stages of the crackdown. The Mukti Bahini (Liberation Army), composed mainly of Bengali military personnel and civilians, took up arms against the Pakistani forces. The movement was initially disorganised but gained momentum as the Pakistan Army’s brutality became widely known. Though imprisoned, Mujibur Rahman remained the figurehead of the independence movement, symbolising the aspirations of the Bengali people. His vision of an independent Bangladesh resonated deeply with the masses, and his leadership, even from prison, was instrumental in rallying support for the cause. Mujib continued to lead the struggle in exile, and his efforts were pivotal in bringing international attention to the Bengali quest for independence. In collaboration with the Mukti Bahini, the Indian Army launched Operation Searchlight in 1971, a decisive military operation aimed at dismantling the Pakistan Army’s hold over East Pakistan. The operation saw fierce clashes along the eastern front, with the Indian forces playing a crucial role in the final stages of the war.
The Indian Army’s intervention in the Bangladesh Liberation War of 1971 was a critical component of India's strategic objectives in the conflict with Pakistan. The Indian Army’s intervention in the Bangladesh Liberation War of 1971 was a turning point in the conflict. India’s involvement was motivated by both humanitarian and strategic considerations. With millions of refugees fleeing to India, especially into the state of West Bengal, India faced a massive strain on its resources and an escalating security threat from Pakistan. India, led by Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, initially offered diplomatic support to the Bengali independence movement. Still, after the Pakistan Army’s actions became increasingly brutal, it became clear that military intervention was necessary. The Indian Army not only provided crucial support to the Mukti Bahini but also launched a well-coordinated military campaign against Pakistan’s eastern forces. The Indian Army, despite facing a much larger Pakistani military, achieved swift and decisive victories. The Battle of Dhaka, which culminated in the surrender of the Pakistan Eastern Command on December 16, 1971, marked the end of the war and the creation of Bangladesh as an independent state. This victory was a testament to the bravery and strategic acumen of the Indian Army, as well as the unwavering resolve of the Mukti Bahini fighters. The liberation of Bangladesh was a moment of great pride for India, as it not only helped end the brutal occupation of East Pakistan but also ushered in a new era for the people of Bangladesh, who could now begin the process of nation-building free from the shackles of oppression.
While much of the international focus was on the eastern front and the liberation of Bangladesh, the western front witnessed intense military engagements, particularly in Jammu and Kashmir. The Pakistani Army had long maintained a military presence in the region. India anticipated that Pakistan might attempt to divert forces to the western border to relieve pressure on East Pakistan. Under General Sam Manekshaw's leadership, India anticipated this move and launched Operation Cactus Lily, a defensive yet offensive strategy designed to counter such aggression. The Indian Army’s swift mobilisation in Jammu and Kashmir was instrumental in containing Pakistan's incursions, especially in the areas of Akhnoor and Chamb. Indian forces, under the able command of Lieutenant General Sagat Singh, launched a series of well-coordinated strikes to destroy Pakistani positions and cut off supply lines. Despite the terrain challenges and the presence of entrenched Pakistani troops, the Indian forces successfully executed their operations, gaining crucial victories. The battle for the Chamb sector was one of the most notable engagements of the Western Front, where Indian forces, in a combined arms operation, successfully recaptured the Chamb-Jaurian area, thus neutralising Pakistani supply routes into Kashmir. This victory ensured that Pakistan could not escalate its actions in Jammu and Kashmir and allowed the Indian Army to focus its full strength on the decisive operations in East Pakistan, leading to the eventual surrender of the Pakistan Eastern Command. The operations in Jammu and Kashmir during the 1971 war highlighted the Indian Army's professionalism and strategic foresight, playing an essential role in the larger context of India's victory and the successful liberation of Bangladesh. While the eastern front stole much of the limelight, the western operations were no less significant, as they safeguarded India’s territorial integrity and sent a clear message that India would not allow Pakistan to open a second front. The 1971 war's success reflected India's military preparedness, coordination, and unwavering resolve across both fronts—Eastern and Western—ensuring that the country could achieve its military and political objectives.
For India, Vijay Diwas is a day to honour the bravery and sacrifice of the soldiers who fought in the 1971 war. It is a reminder of the indomitable spirit that led to the creation of a new neighbour in South Asia, a victory that transformed the region's geopolitical landscape. India’s role in the liberation of Bangladesh was not just military but also political and humanitarian, as the country opened its doors to millions of refugees and offered unwavering support to the Bengali people’s fight for freedom. For Bangladesh, Vijay Diwas serves as a reminder of the nation's hard-won independence. It is a day to reflect on the sacrifices made by millions of Bangladeshis, both civilian and military, in their struggle for freedom. Many Bangladeshis acknowledge with gratitude the role of India in the liberation movement and recognise that without Indian support, independence might have remained a distant dream.
In recent years, Bangladesh’s political landscape has undergone significant changes. Sheikh Hasina, the daughter of Bangladesh’s founding father, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, has ruled the country for the past two decades. Under her leadership, Bangladesh has made significant economic strides and established itself as a key player in South Asian geopolitics. However, her administration has also faced accusations of authoritarianism, corruption, and suppressing political opposition. Recently, the regime has come under increasing pressure, with growing opposition protests and a worsening political climate. In late 2023, a series of political events led to the ousting of Sheikh Hasina’s government, marking a dramatic shift in Bangladesh’s political trajectory. The sudden change in power has raised concerns in India, given the historically close ties between the two countries. However, the ousting of Hasina’s regime could destabilise the region and affect the relationship between India and Bangladesh, especially as India has been one of Bangladesh’s strongest allies on the international stage. The growing instability in Bangladesh reminds us of the fragile nature of political systems in the region. These developments raise questions about the future of Bangladesh’s democracy, its ties with India, and its role in regional stability. As Bangladesh grapples with political uncertainty, it is crucial to remember the lessons of the 1971 war—unity, resilience, and the commitment to democratic values.
Vijay Diwas is not just a day of celebration for India; it symbolises the shared history of struggle, sacrifice, and triumph between India and Bangladesh. The 1971 war marked the birth of Bangladesh, and the cooperation between the Indian Army and the Mukti Bahini remains a cornerstone of the relationship between the two nations. However, the recent political upheavals in Bangladesh underline the need for continued dialogue and collaboration to preserve the spirit of friendship and mutual respect forged in the fires of liberation. As we commemorate Vijay Diwas, it is essential to remember the sacrifices made during the Bangladesh Liberation War, not just for historical accuracy but also as a reminder of the values India and Bangladesh hold dear—freedom, democracy, and the pursuit of peace. The enduring legacy of the 1971 war should guide both nations as they navigate the challenges of the present and work together to build a stable, prosperous future for the people of South Asia.