NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent social media post commemorating Vijay Diwas has drawn criticism from Bangladeshi political figures for omitting any reference to Bangladesh. Vijay Diwas, observed on December 16, marks the 1971 victory of Indian forces over Pakistan, leading to the creation of Bangladesh.
Asif Nazrul, legal adviser to Bangladesh’s interim government led by Muhammad Yunus, expressed his disapproval, stating, “I strongly protest. December 16, 1971, was the day of Bangladesh’s victory. India was an ally in this victory, nothing more.”
Hasnat Abdullah, leader of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that the 1971 conflict was primarily Bangladesh’s Liberation War. He criticized PM Modi’s portrayal, suggesting it overlooked Bangladesh’s central role in its own independence.
These reactions come amid escalating tensions between India and Bangladesh, particularly following attacks on the Hindu minority in Bangladesh after the ousting of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in August. The interim government, led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, has acknowledged 88 incidents of communal violence against minorities, primarily Hindus, with 70 arrests made so far.
In response to these attacks, there have been protests in New Delhi, with demonstrators urging the United Nations to intervene and criticizing the organization for not adequately addressing the issues.
The diplomatic strain has been further exacerbated by the presence of Sheikh Hasina in India since her government’s collapse, with Bangladesh objecting to her stay. Additionally, the arrest of Hindu spiritual leader Krishna Das Prabhu in Bangladesh has intensified tensions, leading to protests and increased security concerns.
The differing narratives surrounding Vijay Diwas highlight the complex historical and political dynamics between the two nations. While India celebrates the day as a significant military victory, Bangladesh commemorates it as the culmination of its struggle for independence. The current discord underscores the need for diplomatic engagement to address both historical sensitivities and contemporary challenges in India-Bangladesh relations.
Source: Web Team, C6N
