Mon Dec 16 00:04:00 UTC 2024: ## India and Bangladesh Celebrate Vijay Diwas Amidst Political Tensions
**Kolkata/Dhaka, December 16, 2024** – Despite recent political strains between India and Bangladesh, both nations commemorated the 53rd Vijay Diwas on Sunday with a traditional exchange of military veterans. Eight Indian veterans of the 1971 Liberation War arrived in Dhaka, while eight Bangladeshi army officers traveled to Kolkata to participate in the celebrations. The delegations also included two serving officers from each country.
The exchange comes amidst heightened tensions following the August 5th student-led uprising in Bangladesh, which led to the ouster of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and subsequent allegations of violence against the Hindu minority. While Bangladesh’s interim government under Muhammad Yunus denies widespread communal violence, the situation has created a challenging backdrop for the celebrations.
The annual exchange of veterans is viewed as a symbol of the strong friendship forged during the 1971 war, with both nations emphasizing the shared sacrifices made for Bangladesh’s independence. A recent visit by Indian External Affairs Secretary Vikram Misri to Dhaka is seen as a step towards easing tensions, further underpinned by this year’s veteran exchange. The Indian High Commission in Dhaka highlighted the significance of the event, stating it “renews memories of the Liberation War, which epitomises the shared sacrifices…for the cause of Bangladesh’s freedom.” While Bangladesh celebrates its independence on March 26th, December 16th marks the liberation of Dhaka, making this day particularly significant.
First Piper 