The Eastern Army Command will hold a series of programmes on Vijay Diwas on December 16 to commemorate the victory of the Indian Armed Forces in the 1971 war against Pakistan, a senior officer said. The victory in the war led to the birth of Bangladesh.

The official programme, released on Friday, outlines a visit by Indian Army veterans, a wreath-laying ceremony, and a military tattoo — performance of music and display of the armed forces—, but does not mention a Bangladesh delegation.

Major General General Staff (MGGS), Headquarters Eastern Command, Maj Gen Mohit Seth said that wreath laying will be held at Vijay Smarak on the day, when Pakistan’s Eastern Army surrendered at Dhaka that year.

“War veterans who had taken part in the 1971 war will be attending events as they unfold,” he said, while addressing a press conference at the Eastern Command headquarters Fort William in Kolkata.

Asked whether Mukti Jodhas and serving officers of the Bangladesh Army will participate in the Vijay Diwas celebrations in Kolkata, as has been the practice over the years, MGGS Seth said, “We will let you know.”

In Kolkata, every year, war veterans share memories, anecdotes and stories of valour during the Vijay Diwas programme.

MGGS Seth acknowledged the crucial role played by the Mukti Bahini, which included the Mukti Joddhas’, and also underscored India’s role in securing the release of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. Recalling the war, he said, “In the Eastern theatre, along with the brave friends of the Mukti Jodhas and the civil population of East Pakistan, the speed and strength of the Indian offensive eventually led to the capitulation of the Pakistan armed forces in East Pakistan. This remarkable achievement demonstrated our strong national will and commitment to support our friends.”

— With PTI