Dhaka, March 25 — Bangladesh State Minister for Liberation War Affairs Ishraque Hossain on Wednesday thanked India for its assistance during the 1971 Liberation War, saying the support was instrumental in achieving victory and saving many lives.
Speaking to ANI ahead of Independence Day, Hossain said the people of Bangladesh will always remember India’s role in their struggle for freedom. He said that as a citizen and as someone who upholds the spirit of 1971, he appreciates the help India extended, which enabled more lives to be saved and contributed to the final triumph.
Bangladesh observes March 25 as Genocide Day to recall the brutal crackdown by Pakistani forces in 1971. On that night, known as the Black Night, the Pakistani military launched Operation Searchlight, carrying out widespread killings and destruction across what was then East Pakistan. Independence leader Sheikh Mujibur Rahman was arrested as violence spread across Dhaka and other regions.
March 26 is celebrated as the Great Independence and National Day, marking the declaration of independence. During the liberation struggle India provided substantial support, including training for freedom fighters, supplies of arms and ammunition, and ultimately direct military involvement. The conflict ended on December 16, 1971, when Pakistani forces surrendered to the joint command of Indian troops and Bangladeshi freedom fighters, resulting in the creation of an independent Bangladesh.
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