December 16 marks the 54th anniversary of ‘Vijay Diwas’ (India’s victory over Pakistan in the 1971 war). Alongside the Indian Armed Forces and Paramilitary forces officials, political leaders also joined in, marking the historic victory of India.
CDS, Tri-service Chiefs lay wreath at War Memorial to honour 1971 War soldiers on Vijay Diwas.
CISF wrote in a post on X, “On this solemn occasion, CISF honours the valour, determination and supreme sacrifice of the brave warriors who led the nation to a historic victory in the 1971 Indo-Pakistan War. Their exemplary bravery not only secured a decisive triumph for India but also contributed to the emergence of a free and independent #Bangladesh, marking a defining chapter in the #history.”
“#CISF salutes the unwavering service of every #Soldier, #Sailor and #AirWarrior, the bravehearts whose courage and sacrifice continue to inspire the nation,” the post further reads.
“On this Vijay Diwas, the #IndianNavy pays solemn tribute to the brave soldiers, sailors and air warriors of 1971, whose courage, professionalism and joint resolve secured a decisive victory and shaped the destiny of a region. Their legacy continues to inspire the Armed Forces in the steadfast defence of the nation — on land, at sea and in the air,” said the Indian Navy.
Border Security Force posts, "On Vijay Diwas DG BSF and All Ranks salute the courage, valour & sacrifices by Indian Armed Forces. Seema Praharis of BSF take great pride being an integral part of this historic event for being there on front before, during and after."
West Bengal Governor C V Ananda Bose lauded the armed forces, saying the victory sent a clear message to the world that "right always triumphs over might", and added that along with the 'Muktijoddhas', the Indian Armed Forces fought against oppression and for democracy, defeating Pakistan to secure freedom for Bangladesh.
"It is a reminder of who makes a nation great and strong. India has proved time and again that the force of righteousness prevails over brute power," he said.
Meanwhile, Defence personnel and veterans in Assam paid homage to the sacrifices of brave hearts on the occasion of Vijay Diwas. Defence personnel of different ranks and veterans assembled to commemorate India's spectacular victory over Pakistan in the 1971 war, leading to the creation of Bangladesh Lt Gen Pranab Kumar Bharali (retd) was the chief guest of the event, which was attended by war veterans Maj Gen Purnananda Das (retd), Brig Abani Kumar Pait (retd), Col Robin Das (retd) and Maj Biren Borgohain (retd).
Tripura Governor Indrasena Nallu Reddy paid floral tributes at the Albert Ekka War Memorial in West Tripura district on the occasion of 'Vijay Diwas'.
"Many people from East Pakistan had taken refuge in Tripura during the war... the then prime minister Indira Gandhi supported the people of Bangladesh, who raised their voice against oppression," he cited.
"I offer my sincere gratitude to those who fought the war and achieved victory. Their sacrifice will be written in the golden words of military history," Reddy added.