Tue Dec 17 00:57:26 UTC 2024: ## Tripura Celebrates Vijay Diwas Amidst Regional Tensions

**Agartala, India –** Tripura observed Vijay Diwas on Monday, commemorating India’s 1971 victory over Pakistan and honoring the sacrifices of its armed forces, particularly during Operation Cactus Lily. The state governor, Indrasena Reddy Nallu, paid tribute at Albert Ekka Park, highlighting the unprecedented surrender of 90,000 Pakistani soldiers and the bravery of Indian troops who supported the supporters of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman in the 13-day battle. Chief Minister Manik Saha also offered his respects via social media.

Celebrations included a grand cultural program at Albert Ekka Chowk, attended by state officials. However, this year’s commemorations were held against a backdrop of heightened border vigilance. Recent anti-India rhetoric from some Bangladeshi leaders, following the August political upheaval in the neighboring country, has increased security concerns along the 856km India-Bangladesh border, parts of which remain unfenced.

Tripura’s significance in the 1971 war is noteworthy. The state, then with a population of 1.5 million, sheltered over 1.6 million East Pakistani refugees during the nine-month liberation war. The Bangladesh Assistant High Commission in Agartala also observed Vijay Diwas, although on a smaller scale than in previous years. The article also mentions the unrelated death of Ustad Zakir Hussain.

Read More