The northeastern states of India celebrated the 53rd Vijay Diwas on Monday, commemorating the nation’s decisive victory in the Indo-Pakistan War of 1971. Various state governments, the Army, and other organizations organized wreath-laying ceremonies and events at war memorials and other significant locations to honor the valiant soldiers who fought for the liberation of Bangladesh.
On December 16, 1971, at Dhaka’s Ramna Race Course, now Suhrawardy Udyan, Lt. Gen. Jagjit Singh Aurora, commander of the Allied Forces, accepted the surrender of Lt. Gen. Amir Abdullah Khan Niazi, who led the Pakistan Forces. The surrender involved 93,000 troops and marked the end of the war, resulting in the creation of Bangladesh. This historic day is observed annually as Vijay Diwas in India and Bangladesh, saluting the bravery and sacrifices of the armed forces.
In Tripura, which played a pivotal role during the 1971 Liberation War, the Army and Assam Rifles hosted a series of commemorative events. The Albert Ekka War Memorial near Agartala became the epicenter of patriotic activities, with Governor Indra Sena Reddy Nallu leading a solemn wreath-laying ceremony. Red Shield Division commander and senior Army officials also participated, reflecting on the sacrifices of soldiers who laid down their lives for the country.
Security analyst Manas Paul highlighted the region’s strategic role in the war, noting the significance of operations such as ‘Cactus Lily’ and ‘Nut Cracker,’ spearheaded by the 57 Mountain Division with artillery support. “These campaigns advanced from Agartala towards Dhaka, culminating in Pakistan’s unconditional surrender on December 16, 1971,” he said.
In Mizoram, Vijay Diwas was observed at the War Memorial at Treasury Square in Aizawl. Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati led floral tributes, followed by Chief Minister Lalduhoma, Home Minister K. Sapdanga, and retired Lt. Col. Clement Lalhmingthanga, among others. The event resonated with solemn respect for the soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice.
Manipur also marked the occasion with a ceremony at the 1st Manipur Rifles Banquet Hall in Imphal. Chief Minister N. Biren Singh, along with Forest Minister Biswajit Singh and senior officials, paid floral tributes to the fallen heroes.
Similar events unfolded in Meghalaya, Nagaland, Arunachal Pradesh, and other northeastern states, showcasing the region’s gratitude to the armed forces.
