Shri L.K. Advani
Leader of the Opposition (Lok Sabha)
Press Statement

Today marks the 35th anniversary of the liberation of Bangladesh. It was on December 16, 1971 that, 13 days after the declaration of the war against Pakistan, the Indian Army entered Dhaka and secured the formal unconditional surrender of the Pakistani troops. Till date, it remains one of the proudest achievements of the Indian Armed Forces.

On behalf of the Bharatiya Janata Party, I convey my heartfelt tributes to all the martyrs and heroes of the war for the liberation of Bangladesh. Two leaders of our Armed Forces deserve a special mention for their contribution to India’s victory: Lt. Gen. Jagjit Singh Aurora and Maj. Gen. J.F.R. Jacob.

The defeat of the Pakistani army resulted in as many as 93,000 Pakistani soldiers surrendering themselves and being taken as prisoner of war by the Indian Army. It was largest surrender since World War II. Had the Indian governent of the day used this advantage properly in the Summit talks with Pakistan in Shimla in July 1972, the Kashmir issue could have been solved once and for all. Sadly, India frittered away an historic opportunity.

On this day, I also send fraternal greetings to the people of Bangladesh. Establishment of goodneighbourly relations between India and Bangladesh, based on sensitivity to each other’s concerns, is essential for realising the dreams of 1971.