Puducherry, Dec 16: Vijay Diwas commemorating India’s historic victory in the 1971 India-Pakistan War was observed across the country on Tuesday with leaders and citizens paying homage to the soldiers whose courage and sacrifice shaped a defining moment in the nation’s history.
In Puducherry Lieutenant Governor K. Kailasanathan and Chief Minister N. Rangasamy offered floral tributes at the War Memorial on Beach Road. A two-minute silence was observed in honour of the martyrs who laid down their lives in the line of duty.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Droupadi Murmu paid tribute to the fallen soldiers of the 1971 war which culminated in the surrender of Pakistan’s Army and led to the liberation of Bangladesh.
In a message on Vijay Diwas Prime Minister Modi said, “On Vijay Diwas, we remember the brave soldiers whose courage and sacrifice ensured India had a historic victory in 1971.” He added that the day “stands as a salute to their valour and a reminder of their unmatched spirit.”
President Murmu, in her tribute, said, “On the occasion of Vijay Diwas, I pay my humble respects to the brave sons of Mother India.” She said their courage, valour and unparalleled devotion to the motherland have always filled the nation with pride. Referring to the armed forces’ growing capabilities, the President noted that “in Operation Sindoor, the army demonstrated self-reliance strategic resolve, and effective use of modern warfare techniques.”
The Congress also marked Vijay Diwas by hailing the bravery of the armed forces and crediting former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi’s leadership for the historic victory. Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge said, “On this day in 1971, history was made when India’s valiant armed forces decisively defeated Pakistan liberating Bangladesh and reshaping the world map” adding that the victory became “a great example of humanity and justice.”
Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi saluted the armed forces, saying, “On Vijay Diwas, I salute the heroes of our armed forces who created history by defending India’s borders during the 1971 war.” He said their indomitable courage and supreme sacrifice would forever inspire every Indian.
Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi said that on this day the Indian Army set an enduring example of valour and courage, bringing glory to the nation. In an official statement the Congress said the Indian Armed Forces, through their unmatched valour, crushed Pakistan’s aggression, leading to the liberation of Bangladesh.
Vijay Diwas is observed every year on December 16 to honour the soldiers of the 1971 war and to remember one of India’s most decisive military victories.
