Tue Dec 17 11:58:10 UTC 2024: ## Bangladesh Officials Criticize Modi’s Victory Day Message
**DHAKA, BANGLADESH –** Bangladesh’s interim government has sparked controversy by criticizing Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Victory Day message. Law Adviser Asif Nazrul, echoing sentiments expressed by others, including the Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus’ office and student activist Hasnat Abdullah, stated that India’s role in the 1971 liberation war was that of an “ally,” not the sole victor.
Mr. Nazrul’s Facebook post, which was shared by Mr. Yunus’ Press Secretary, directly challenged PM Modi’s X post commemorating the “historic victory” and the sacrifices of Indian soldiers. The post, a screenshot of which Mr. Nazrul shared, drew strong rebuke from several Bangladeshi officials and activists.
Mr. Abdullah, Convener of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement, went further, characterizing PM Modi’s statement as a threat to Bangladesh’s sovereignty and independence. He argued that the war was for Bangladesh’s liberation from Pakistan, not solely an Indian achievement.
This criticism comes after Chief Adviser Yunus’ Victory Day speech omitted mention of Bangladesh’s founding leader, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, and instead described the ousted Sheikh Hasina’s administration as “the world’s worst autocratic government.” Notably, Mr. Yunus’ address also failed to acknowledge India’s role in the war.
In contrast, India commemorated December 16th as Vijay Diwas, honoring the surrender of over 90,000 Pakistani soldiers to Indian forces. President Droupadi Murmu and other Indian leaders also paid tribute to the soldiers who fought in the 1971 war, emphasizing their sacrifices and contributions to the creation of Bangladesh. The differing narratives highlight the sensitive nature of historical interpretations surrounding the liberation of Bangladesh.
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