Vijay Diwas 2024: Vijay Diwas is an annual observance to commemorate India’s victory over Pakistan in the 1971 Indo-Pak War, which led to the segregation of East Pakistan (now Bangladesh) and West Pakistan (now Pakistan).
This day celebrates the sacrifice, bravery, and strategic brilliance of the Indian Armed Forces, who achieved a historic victory in one of modern history’s shortest and most decisive wars.
It also promotes national unity and holds immense significance for India and Bangladesh over shared history.
As we observe this day with various commemorative activities, here’s everything you need to know.
Vijay Diwas 2024: Date and History
People across India commemorate a special day on December 16 each year; in 2024, this observance will fall on a Monday.
The 1971 war began on December 3, primarily driven by a humanitarian crisis in East Pakistan (now Bangladesh), where the Pakistani military committed widespread atrocities against civilians.
India intervened to support the liberation movement, which lasted 13 days and concluded with the surrender of approximately 93,000 Pakistani soldiers.
Lt Gen AAK Niazi signs the Instrument of Surrender on Dec 16, 1971, as Lt Gen Jagjit Singh Arora looks on. (Wikipedia Commons)
On December 16, 1971, Pakistani General Amir Abdullah Khan Niazi, the commander of the Pakistani forces, formally surrendered to the combined forces of India and the Mukti Bahini of Bangladesh.
This momentous event not only marked India’s victory in the war against Pakistan but also led to the independence of East Pakistan as Bangladesh.
Vijay Diwas 2024: Significance and Celebrations
Vijay Diwas is a day dedicated to remembrance, pride, and reflection on the sacrifices made for India’s sovereignty and peace in the region. It signifies liberation from oppression and emphasises the importance of national sovereignty.
This day holds immense significance for both India and Bangladesh, with the Eastern Command’s Vijay Diwas celebrations being one of the largest military events in South Asia.
Army officials emphasise the historical importance of the war, highlighting India’s pivotal role in supporting the liberation of Bangladesh and restoring Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, also known as Bangabandhu, to power.
A small delegation of 10 to 12 people from Bangladesh is expected to attend the Vijay Diwas (Victory Day) celebrations in Kolkata today, Monday. Sources indicate that the Mukti Yoddhas are likely to arrive in Kolkata a day before Vijay Diwas.
The Indian Army’s Eastern Command, headquartered at Fort William in Kolkata, has organised a series of events to commemorate this historic victory.
