The sense of shared concerns and synergy in goals and challenges was reciprocated by the Prime Minister of Bangladesh, Sheikh Hasina, who said: “India is not just our next door neighbor, we have a historical, social, cultural and geographical heritage. The people and government of India were immensely involved in the evolution of Bangladesh during our liberation war in 1971. ”
Modi’s speech on the “historic” visit to commemorate 50 years of Bangladesh’s liberation war was significant in that he criticized Pakistan for the atrocities committed by its army, mentioned Indira Gandhi’s contribution to liberation and also he sought to establish a personal connection with it by “proudly” reminding the people of Bangladesh that he had participated in their fight for freedom by doing satyagraha and courting arrest at a young age.
Modi said he had been traumatized by the actions of the Pakistani army who had committed genocide against his own people. He also praised the contribution of the Indian army to the liberation war of Bangladesh. In her speech, Hasina spoke extensively about Pakistani brutalities against the Bangladeshi people during the liberation struggle.
In an indirect reference to Pakistan, Modi said that the kind of forces and mentality that gave effect to such inhumane acts were still active. “We have to remain vigilant and united to fight them,” said the prime minister, quoting the late Atal Bihari Vajpayee as saying that the blood of the Indian and Bangladeshi soldiers ran together and would stand the test of any cunning diplomacy.
Recalling the brutalities of Pakistan’s Operation Searchlight, Modi said the world had not discussed the issue enough. “In the midst of all this, Bangabandhu was like a ray of hope for the people here and for us Indians. His courage and leadership meant that no country could enslave Bangladesh, “he said, wearing what is locally known as a ‘Mujib jacket’.
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