Brigadier General (Retd) Dr M Sakhawat Hossain, adviser to the Ministry of Shipping, reiterated that while India’s assistance during the Liberation War is remembered with gratitude, the nine-month-long struggle was fought and concluded by Bangladesh.
“We initiated the Liberation War, and we brought it to its conclusion. This was our war,” he asserted.
“The entire world recognises this historical fact. Yet, we do not forget India’s support during our fight for independence.”
Sakhawat made these remarks on Tuesday (17 December) in response to journalists’ questions regarding Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent social media post on Bangladesh’s Liberation War.
The comments came after the passing-out parade ceremony of the third batch at Bangladesh Marine Academy Sylhet.
“Narendra Modi’s post is a personal statement. The Liberation War of 1971 and the nine months of bloodshed belong to Bangladesh,” Sakhawat said.
“Our nation endured immense sacrifices – lives were lost, and our women suffered the gravest of indignities. Comments of this nature, over five decades later, risk hurting those who fought valiantly for our independence.”
Earlier, speaking as the chief guest at the passing-out ceremony, Brigadier General Sakhawat Hossain announced that efforts were underway to expand the scope of Bangladesh’s marine academies.
He highlighted initiatives to ensure sailors from the country are equipped with world-class training and skills to excel on the international stage.
“We are working towards the goal of strengthening our marine academies. For this, we are bringing in five male and five female instructors from abroad to integrate women into this challenging profession. This move will enrich our academies and encourage greater participation from women,” he said.
He further added that steps are being taken to establish connections between marine academies and the Bangladesh Navy.
“Our aim is to facilitate a pathway for cadets completing their education at marine academies to join the Navy,” he remarked.
The event was attended by Commandant of Bangladesh Marine Academy Sylhet, Marine Engineer Mohammad Humayun Kabir, who also addressed the audience.
During the ceremony, 41 cadets took their oath as part of the graduating class.
