Law, Justice, and Parliamentary Affairs Adviser Asif Nazrul strongly criticised Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi for a social media post about Bangladesh’s Liberation War, in which Modi claimed it was a victory for India.
In a post on his verified Facebook page on today (16 December), Asif Nazrul, a key figure in the interim government formed after the fall of Sheikh Hasina’s 15-year regime amid a student-led mass uprising in early August, shared a screenshot of Modi’s post.
“I strongly protest. The 16 December 1971 was the day of victory for Bangladesh. India was an ally of this victory, nothing more,” the adviser wrote.
Earlier in the day, in a post on X, Modi wrote, “Today, on Vijay Diwas, we honour the courage and sacrifices of the brave soldiers who contributed to India’s historic victory in 1971. Their selfless dedication and unwavering resolve safeguarded our nation and brought glory to us.
“This day is a tribute to their extraordinary valour and their unshakeable spirit. Their sacrifices will forever inspire generations and remain deeply embedded in our nation’s history.”
Anti-Discrimination Student Movement Convener Hasnat Abdullah also criticised the Indian premier’s post.
Taking to his verified Facebook page, Hasnat wrote, “It was the Liberation War of Bangladesh, which took place to win freedom from Pakistan. But Modi has claimed this as India’s war and their achievement. Bangladesh’s existence has been absent in his statement.”
Hasnat further said, “I see this as a threat to our independence, sovereignty, and oneness when India claims Bangladesh’s independence as their own achievement. It is a must for us to fight against this threat from India. We need to carry on this fight.”
Relations between the two neighbouring countries have been uneasy since Sheikh Hasina’s ouster on 5 August, her subsequent shelter in India, and India’s critical stance towards Bangladesh, particularly the interim government.
While bilateral ties appeared to improve following Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri’s pre-scheduled visit on 9 December, Indian authorities and media continue to express critical views on various issues, keeping tensions alive.
The strained relations have reached their lowest point, largely due to the critical rhetoric from Indian officials and media.
