A significant delegation from Bangladesh, comprising veterans of the 1971 Liberation War, is set to arrive in Kolkata next week to participate in the annual Vijay Diwas commemorations. The visit underscores the shared history and sacrifices that led to the creation of Bangladesh following India's decisive victory over Pakistan.
Delegation Composition and Schedule
The 20-member delegation includes eight Muktijoddhas (Bangladeshi freedom fighters), two serving army officers, and their spouses. The group is scheduled to travel from Dhaka to Kolkata on December 14. Among the officers is a brigadier-rank official. Their visit is a key part of the Indian Army's outreach to veterans associated with the historic conflict.
Official events commence on December 15, when the guests will attend the Eastern Command's ‘Military Tattoo' at the Mangal Pandey Military Training Area. They are also expected to meet the Governor of West Bengal at Lok Bhavan on the same day.
Commemorative Events and Ceremonies
The central ceremony will be held on December 16 at the Vijay Smarak near Vijay Durg (formerly Fort William). Here, the delegation will pay solemn homage to the martyrs of the 1971 war. The Indian Army formally inaugurated this year's observance on Sunday, with Eastern Command Chief of Staff Major General V Raghu leading the opening at Vijay Durg.
Ahead of the main events, the Army organized a commemorative motorcycle rally in Kolkata to honour the 1971 victory. The final leg of this rally was led by Eastern Command GOC-in-C Lieutenant General Ramchandra Tiwari, covering 25 km and concluding at the Vijay Smarak.
Context and Significance
Vijay Diwas marks the Indian Army's victory over Pakistan in the 1971 war, which directly led to the independence of Bangladesh. This year's observance, like the previous one, is being held on a relatively subdued scale against a backdrop of regional tensions. The Army has planned a series of ceremonial and cultural programmes, with the invited Bangladeshi freedom fighters serving as special guests of honour.
The participation of the Muktijoddhas is a powerful reminder of the joint struggle and the enduring bonds forged during the liberation war. Their presence at the Vijay Smarak ceremony is a poignant tribute to the sacrifices made by soldiers and civilians on both sides of the border for the cause of Bangladeshi independence.
