16 December : "That Memorable Day in History When 93,000 Pakistani Soldiers Kneeled in Surrender Before the Indian Army During the 1971 War”
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On December 16, 1971, the Indian Armed Forces achieved a significant victory over Pakistan during the Indo-Pakistani War. On this day, 93,000 Pakistani soldiers surrendered to the Indian Army in East Pakistan (now Bangladesh). This surrender marked the end of the Indo-Pakistani War and led to the creation of Bangladesh as an independent nation.
The war began in March 1971 when the Pakistani military cracked down on the Bengali population in East Pakistan (now Bangladesh), who were demanding greater autonomy and recognition of their cultural identity. The Indian government, led by Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, supported the cause of the Bengali people and provided refuge to millions of Bengali refugees who fled to India.
As the war progressed, India gradually increased its military involvement. The Indian Army, Air Force, and Navy played crucial roles in the eventual victory. The Indian Army launched a two-pronged offensive, with one force advancing from the west and another from the east. The eastern force, known as the Eastern Command, played a pivotal role in liberating East Pakistan.
On December 3, 1971, the Indian Air Force launched a preemptive strike, codenamed Operation Chengiz Khan, targeting Pakistani airfields. This attack severely crippled the Pakistani Air Force and gave India air superiority throughout the conflict. The Indian Navy also played a crucial role by imposing a naval blockade on East Pakistan, cutting off supplies and reinforcements to the Pakistani military. This blockade severely restricted Pakistan’s ability to sustain its forces in the region.
The turning point came on December 16, 1971, when the Pakistani Army in East Pakistan surrendered to the Indian Army. Lieutenant General A. A. K. Niazi, the Pakistani commander, signed the Instrument of Surrender, marking the end of the war. This event led to the creation of Bangladesh as an independent nation.
The victory was a significant achievement for India, both militarily and diplomatically. It showcased the strength and capabilities of the Indian Armed Forces and solidified India’s position as a regional power. The war also highlighted the importance of international diplomacy, as India received support from various countries, including the Soviet Union.
Overall, the Indian victory over Pakistan in 1971 was a historic event that reshaped the political landscape of South Asia and led to the birth of Bangladesh.
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