India's military victory over Pakistan in 1971 is commemorated as Vijay Diwas. The conflict of 13 days concluded with the liberation of Bangladesh, Pakistan's surrender, and India's reaffirmation of its dedication to justice and compassion. Across the country, people from diverse backgrounds in India celebrate this significant day annually on December 16.
Bangladesh was formed on December 16, 1971, when Lieutenant General A.A.K. Niazi of the Pakistani Army signed the Instrument of Surrender in Dhaka. Prime Minister Indira Gandhi spearheaded the moment of triumph alongside prominent military figures such as Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw and Lt. Gen. Jagjit Singh Aurora. Aside from transforming South Asia, the conflict demonstrated India's military strength and commitment to global peace.
Vijay Diwas 2024: History
A humanitarian disaster in East Pakistan (currently Bangladesh), where the Pakistani military committed significant atrocities against civilians, acted as the primary trigger for the outbreak of the 1971 war on December 3. The 13-day struggle for freedom, which concluded with the capitulation of nearly 93,000 Pakistani soldiers, was aided by India's involvement.
On December 16, 1971, General Amir Abdullah Khan Niazi, the leader of the Pakistani forces, openly capitulated to the Indian army and the Mukti Bahini of Bangladesh. This significant event led to the independence of East Pakistan as Bangladesh, along with India's victory in the conflict against Pakistan.
What is the significance of the Vijay Diwas?
Vijay Diwas acts as a solemn reminder of the bravery, sacrifice, and tactical brilliance of the Indian Armed Forces. Across the country, the day is marked by military parades, cultural events, and ceremonies for laying wreaths.
The victory showcases India's steadfast commitment to upholding democracy, liberty, and humanity. Moreover, Vijay Diwas serves as a reminder to respect and assist the armed forces, whose sacrifices safeguard the nation's integrity and sovereignty.
As one of the largest military events in South Asia, the Vijay Diwas celebrations by the Eastern Command hold immense significance for both Bangladesh and India.
India's Involvement In Liberation Of Bangladesh
Since March 25, the critical conditions in Bangladesh have been highlighted by the uprising of 75 million individuals who believed that their life, freedom, and pursuit of happiness were out of reach. The situation intensified on December 3 when the Pakistan Air Force carried out a preemptive attack on Indian bases, resembling Israel's Operation Focus.
India perceived this as unwarranted hostility, resulting in both countries recognizing a state of war. The Indian armed forces, bolstered by three corps and the Mukti Bahini, were considerably more powerful than the Pakistani troops, which were stretched too thin to effectively handle guerrilla tactics. Quickly progressing, the Indians selectively interacted with Pakistani positions. Failing to protect the capital, Dacca, the Pakistani troops eventually capitulated on December 16, 1971, leading to the independence of East Pakistan.
Contribution Of Indira Gandhi And General Sam Manekshaw
India's then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, acknowledging the refugee crisis, determined that waging war on Pakistan would be more beneficial economically than taking in millions of refugees. On April 28, 1971, the Indian Cabinet encouraged India’s first Field Marshal, General Sam Hormusji Framji Jamshedji Manekshaw, affectionately called Sam Bahadur, to get ready for military operations in East Pakistan due to worsening ties with Pakistan. India chose to assist the Mukti Bahini, the Bengali rebel group, by offering organizational, training, and military support, which diminished the Pakistani forces and paved the way for a complete Indian intervention in December.
How Does India celebrate Vijay Diwas?
The soldiers who sacrificed their lives for the country receive special honors at the National War Memorial in New Delhi. Today, a small gathering of 10 to 12 Bangladeshis is anticipated to join the celebrations of Vijay Diwas, referred to as Victory Day, in Kolkata. Reports suggest that the Mukti Yoddhas are expected to reach Kolkata a day prior to Vijay Diwas.
To celebrate this important victory, the Eastern Command of the Indian Army, based at Fort William in Kolkata, has arranged multiple events.
