Kolkata witnessed a spirited motorcycle rally on Sunday, organized by the Indian Army’s Eastern Command in anticipation of the upcoming ‘Vijay Diwas’ celebrations. This event commemorates India’s significant victory over Pakistan during the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War, a pivotal moment in the nation’s history. Collaborating with a well-known FM radio channel, the rally aimed to honor the courage and sacrifices of the armed forces while fostering a stronger connection between the military and the civilian community, as explained by a defense official.
The rally was spearheaded by Lieutenant General R C Tiwari, the General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Eastern Command, who was joined by motorcycle enthusiasts hailing from both the armed forces and the local populace. The event commenced at Fort William, the Eastern Army Command headquarters located in central Kolkata, where it was officially flagged off by Lieutenant General R C Srikanth, the Chief of Staff of the Eastern Command.
The rally covered a distance of 25 kilometers, passing by several renowned landmarks in Kolkata, including the historic Eden Gardens, the majestic Victoria Memorial, and the iconic Birla Mandir. As the motorcycles thundered through the city streets, they drew the attention and admiration of onlookers, reinforcing the bond between the military and local residents.
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The event reached its solemn conclusion at the East Gate of Fort William, where Lieutenant General Tiwari and other dignitaries paid their respects to the martyred heroes of the 1971 war at the ‘Vijay Smarak’. This tribute involved participants, comprising officers from the Indian armed forces and respected citizens of Kolkata, joining in a moment of remembrance for those who made the ultimate sacrifice during the conflict.
The backdrop of the rally serves as a poignant reminder of the 1971 Indo-Pak War, which commenced when Pakistan executed pre-emptive air strikes against 11 Indian airbases on December 3, 1971. This conflict arose amid the widespread and brutal genocide of the people in East Pakistan, under the rule of General Yahya Khan of Pakistan. The war was not only brief but intensely fought on both the Eastern and Western fronts, culminating in the complete surrender of Pakistani forces and the subsequent creation of Bangladesh. The Indian Armed Forces showcased their strength and strategic superiority against the Pakistani military during this conflict, marking a significant chapter in the annals of India’s military history.
