Pranay Verma, the Indian envoy to Bangladesh. Photo credit: X/@ihcdhaka
India supported Bangladesh in 1971 for its liberation and will continue to play a supportive role to build an “inclusive” nation, India’s High Commissioner to Bangladesh said on Saturday (December 6, 2025). Speaking in Dhaka on the occasion of Maitri Divas, the day that commemorates India’s recognition of Bangladesh as an independent nation on December 6, 1971, Pranay Verma, the Indian envoy to Bangladesh said “interdependence and mutual benefit” will keep propelling India-Bangladesh ties.
“6th of December 1971 stands out as a particularly special date. What is most remarkable about that day is that India’s recognition of Bangladesh came 10 days before Bangladesh actually got liberated,” Mr. Verma said.
Against the background of the Liberation War, Prime Minister Indira Gandhi announced India’s decision to recognise Bangladesh as an independent country, thereby making India the first country in the world to grant diplomatic recognition to Bangladesh, which became independent with the defeat of the Pakistan military at the end of the 13-day long war in 1971.
“I am confident that we will work together to fulfil the aspirations of our people and forge closer people-to-people ties, inspired by our shared sacrifices of the past and guided by our new aspirations for the future,” Mr. Verma said.
December 6 is a reminder of the blood shed by the brave ‘Muktijoddhas’, the guerrilla fighters of Bangladesh, who were supported by India as they fought to liberate their country, the envoy said. “Today, therefore, is a day for remembrance and gratitude,” he added.
India supported the people of Bangladesh during the struggle of 1971 and will continue to extend support in achieving the vision for a “democratic, stable, peaceful, progressive and inclusive nation”, Mr. Verma said.
Bangladesh’s interim government, led by Prof. Mohammed Yunus, has announced election will take place in February 2026. Campaigning has begun although doubts about polling have increased as the interim government has called for adoption of the July Proclamation, a set of principles and goals that will considerably alter parts of the 1972 Constitution of Bangladesh.
Bangladesh has banned deposed Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina‘s Awami League from political activities, and she was handed a death sentence by the International Crimes Tribunal on November 17.
India has called for holding a “transparent, free and inclusive election” in Bangladesh.
Published – December 06, 2025 10:32 pm IST
