Fierce Backlash Over Modi’s Victory Day Post

Interim government adviser for law, justice, and parliamentary affairs, Professor Dr. Asif Nazrul, has strongly protested a recent post by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the occasion of Bangladesh’s Victory Day. Dr. Nazrul expressed his reaction in a post on his verified Facebook page.

In his post, Modi referred to Bangladesh’s Liberation War as India’s war, stating, “On this Vijay Diwas, we honor the courage and sacrifice of the soldiers who contributed to India’s historic victory in 1971. Their selfless dedication and unwavering determination safeguarded our nation and brought us glory. On this day, we salute their remarkable valor and their indomitable spirit. Their sacrifices will forever inspire generations and remain deeply etched in our nation’s history.”

Sharing a screenshot of Modi’s post, Dr. Asif Nazrul wrote, “I strongly protest. December 16, 1971, was Bangladesh’s Victory Day. India was an ally in this victory—nothing more.”

Hasnat Abdullah, convenor of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement, also reacted strongly to Modi’s post. He wrote, “When this independence is claimed as India’s achievement, I see it as a direct threat to the independence, sovereignty, and integrity of Bangladesh.”

He further stated, “This was Bangladesh’s Liberation War—a war fought against Pakistan for the independence of Bangladesh. But Modi has claimed it was solely India’s war and achievement. This narrative disregards the very existence of Bangladesh.”

Both commentators emphasized the need to firmly resist any attempts to undermine Bangladesh’s independence or diminish the country’s historical struggle for liberation.