Dhaka, March 25 (ANI): Bangladesh State Minister for Liberation War Affairs Ishraque Hossain on Wednesday expressed gratitude to India for its support during the 1971 Liberation War, saying that assistance helped Bangladesh achieve victory and saved many lives.
Speaking to ANI ahead of Bangladesh’s Independence Day, Hossain said the people of Bangladesh will always remember India’s role in their struggle for freedom. “As a citizen of Bangladesh and someone who believes in the spirit of 1971 and our freedom, the help that India extended towards us will always be appreciated. India helped us in the war, and because of that support, we were able to save more lives and ultimately achieve victory. We thank India for that,” he said in an interview in Dhaka.
Bangladesh observes March 25 as Genocide Day to mark 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 by Pakistani forces as violence spread across Dhaka and other regions.
March 26 is celebrated as Bangladesh’s Great Independence and National Day, marking the declaration of independence. During the liberation struggle, India provided significant support, including training for freedom fighters, supplies of arms and ammunition, and eventually 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, leading to the creation of an independent Bangladesh. (ANI)
(This content is sourced from a syndicated feed and is published as received. The Tribune assumes no responsibility or liability for its accuracy, completeness, or content.)
