VIJAY DIWAS: INDIA'S REGIONAL LEADERSHIP AND FRAGILITY OF BANGLADESHI GRATITUDE

The public criticism of India's perceived dominance reflects a growing discomfort with the asymmetry in the bilateral relationship.

- ASHISH SINGH

December 16, 1971, was a momentous day in South Asian history. It was the day the world feasted its eyes on an event that redefined a young, independent India's role as a regional leader.

It was the day of the creation of Bangladesh: an occurrence that changed the face of South Asia.

On a political terrain marred by genocide of Bangladeshis, India's military intervention facilitated the independence of then-East Pakistan from West Pakistani oppression.

It was a glorious humanitarian and strategic triumph for India.

Vijay Diwas, celebrated annually to commemorate this victory, is a testament to India's military prowess and commitment to justice and self-determination.

However, Bangladesh's political alignments show signs of drifting away from India.

The legacy of 1971 and the hard-earned peace it symbolises face new challenges.

At the intersection of domestic politics, economic concerns, and external influences, forces of dubious legitimacy threaten to undermine the bilateral relationship that was once forged in the fires of liberation.

HISTORICAL TRIUMPH OF STRATEGY, LEADERSHIP

The 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War was as much a military victory as it was a diplomatic and political masterstroke.

The coordinated efforts of the Indian Armed ForcesArmy, Navy, and Air Forceresulted in Pakistan's swift and decisive defeat. This success was a testament to India's ability to balance its military operations with strategic diplomacy, notably through the Indo-Soviet Treaty of Friendship and Cooperation, which deterred Western intervention.

The Indian Navy played a pivotal role in crippling Pakistan's war-waging capabilities.