Amid the stand-off between India and Bangladesh, the interim government has hit out at Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Facebook post on Vijay Diwas, calling India "nothing but an ally" in the 1971 war. This came as the Border Security Force (BSF) and the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) exchanged sweets on Monday morning to commemorate Bangladesh's Victory Day, a norm going on since 1971.
The Prime Minister, in his post on Monday, said India was honouring the courage and sacrifices of the brave soldiers who contributed to India's historic victory in 1971. "Their selfless dedication and unwavering resolve safeguarded our nation and brought glory to us. This day is a tribute to their extraordinary valour and their unshakeable spirit," the Prime Minister said.
However, Bangladesh's interim government's law adviser Asif Nazrul took offence to the post, stating that "16 December 1971, was the day of Bangladesh's victory. India was an ally in this victory, nothing more."
The leaders of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) also grabbed the opportunity to slam India. BNP standing committee member Salahuddin Ahmed told Prothom Alo that the struggle of the people of Bangladesh should not be viewed in a different way."
"The independence and sovereignty of a nation should be respected with mutual respect and dignity," Ahmed added.
Shahadat Hossain, spokesperson for the 12-party alliance which is in joint movement with BNP, called Modi's statement "an authoritarian mindset." "The people of Bangladesh fought and won the war for independence. The statement of India's prime minister is not a friendly expression, Hossain said, stating that such comments stem from an authoritarian mindset.
However, the border security forces of both countries vowed to foster friendly relations by enhancing mutual understanding between the two border forces. The exchange occurred around 10 am at the zero line near Check Post Gate, adjacent to Sub-Pillar 11 of Main Pillar 285, along the Hili border.
