War hero mulls India’s role in 1971 conflict on Vijay Divas in Mandi

Ex-servicemen and Mandi citizens marked Vijay Divas with great fervour and enthusiasm here today.

Deputy Commissioner Apoorv Devgan was the chief guest at the event. He paid tributes to the martyrs, and highlighted the supreme sacrifice of brave soldiers.

Kargil war hero Brig Khushal Thakur (retd) delivered a poignant address at the Mandi War Memorial, honouring the sacrifices of Indian soldiers and reflecting on the nation’s strategic role in the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War.

The event focused on paying tributes to the brave soldiers who fought for India, as well as the families who endured immense sacrifices — particularly the women.

Among the notable honourees was Chinta Devi, the widow of Havildar Kishan, a Kargil martyr.

Brigadier Thakur underscored the importance of remembering such stories of valour and resilience that inspire future generations.

Brigadier Thakur also revisited India’s key role in the 1971 conflict, which led to the creation of Bangladesh.

He praised the Armed Forces for their swift victory, which resulted in the surrender of over 93,000 Pakistani soldiers, but raised concerns about the overshadowed sacrifices of India in the process.

The Brigadier also addressed ongoing issues in Bangladesh, particularly the treatment of the Hindu minority, which has dwindled to just 9 per cent of the population.

He pointed out the political and economic instability currently affecting Bangladesh, highlighting the security implications for India.

Thakur further commended India’s infrastructure development efforts for neighbouring countries, stressing their importance in managing border issues, refugee crises and countering extremism.

Targeting the state government, Thakur said the CM had promised in his budget speech this year that the monthly grant for defence non-pensioners would be increased from Rs 3,000 to Rs 5,000, however, nothing had been done in this regard.

The current state government did not consider it appropriate to hold any function today to pay any tributes to martyrs of the 1971 conflict, Thakur said.

The Ex-servicemen community of the state was disappointed due to indifferent attitude of the government, he added.