Vijay Diwas: Remembering the War That Changed History
Every year on December India observes Vijay Diwas to remember one of the most decisive and morally significant military victories in its history The day commemorates India s triumph in the India Pakistan war a conflict that lasted just days but permanently altered the political map of South Asia More than a celebration of victory Vijay Diwas is a solemn reminder of sacrifice courage and the human cost of standing up for freedom and justice The India Pakistan War was triggered by the Bangladesh Liberation Movement as East Pakistan now Bangladesh sought independence from West Pakistan The conflict led to a massive influx of refugees into India sharply escalating regional tensions India backed the Bengali independence struggle by supporting and training the Mukti Bahini guerrillas Hostilities formally began when Pakistan launched pre-emptive airstrikes under Operation Chengiz Khan on Indian airbases In response India declared war and advanced into East Pakistan