Liberation War Affairs Minister AKM Mozammel Haque has strongly rebutted a stereotype that the war in 1971 took place between India and Pakistan.
Calling it Bangladesh War of Liberation with Pakistan, he insistently said at a function as the chief guest at the National Museum in Dhaka city, "It was never a war between Pakistan and India."
The minister expressed gratitude to India for its tremendous support extended by its people and government in 1971."India provided shelter, training and arms. We got all logistic support from India.”
Minister Haque said India has remained a good friend and both the countries are working to further cement the friendly ties.
Later a book titled 12 Days to Dacca, written by Mahfuza Gen H.S. Kler and edited by Wing Commander Deejay Kler, was unveiled both in Bangla and English.
Deputy Indian High Commissioner Dr. Adarsh Swaika, among others, spoke at the book launching ceremony.
An Indian delegation, comprising 27 war veterans and four serving officers, accompanied by their companions participated in the Victory Day celebrations and shared their stories.
Through the visit, the veterans of War of Liberation of Bangladesh 1971 once again got together in Dhaka and Kolkata to celebrate the victory and their eternal bonds of camaraderie.
They shared their stories to bring to life a saga of glory, sacrifice and the spirit with which people of both the countries had stood by each other during the difficult times, reports UNB.
The reciprocal visits by freedom fighters and war veterans on the Victory Day started in 2005, and over 300 freedom fighters from Bangladesh and 150 Indian veterans have joined the celebrations in Kolkata and Dhaka respectively.
During their stay in Bangladesh, they will attend the ceremonial events and interact with the Prime Minister, the chiefs of Army, Navy and Air Force and Principal Staff Officer, Armed Forces Division.
They will also meet freedom fighters during separate receptions being hosted by the Ministry of Liberation War Affairs, War Course Foundation of Bangladesh, Dhaka Club and the High Commission of India.
The delegation will also pay homage to Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman at the Bangabandhu Memorial Museum and visit some of the battle sites of the Liberation War.
Lt Gen (retired) Jai Bhagwan Singh Yadava, who participated in 1965 war against Pakistan and 1971 War of Liberation of Bangladesh, is leading the Indian delegation.
He was honoured with the gallantry award, ‘Vir Chakra’, in the 1971 war for his acts of gallantry in the battle of Bogra. He was also wounded in this battle.
Wing Commander Vinod Kumar Nebb, 'Vir Chakra and Bar', was a young Flight Lieutenant of Indian Air Force in 1971.