Adviser to the shipping ministry Brig Gen (retd) Dr Sakhawat Hossain said emphasized Bangladesh’s pivotal role in starting and finishing its own Liberation War, reports Dhaka Tribune.
Criticizing Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s statement on Bangladesh’s Liberation War in 1871, he made the statement while acknowledging India’s support during the war.
He made the statement on Tuesday, after attending the third graduation ceremony at the Sylhet Marine Academy. He said: “We started our Liberation War, and we completed it ourselves.”
“India definitely assisted us, which we acknowledge and remember. The Liberation War is one of the greatest events in the world. While some may have a different perspective, the world recognizes it as Bangladesh’s Liberation War,” he furthered.
The graduation parade for the academy’s third batch took place at the parade ground, with Brig Gen Sakhawat serving as the chief guest.
When asked about a recent tweet by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Brig Gen Sakhawat responded: “This is just Narendra Modi expressing his views. However, his remarks have hurt many of the surviving freedom fighters.”
The event also featured a graduation parade for nautical and engineering cadets from the Sylhet Academy. A total of 41 seafarers who completed their courses participated in the ceremony.
This year, Mahmudul Alam Sayem was awarded the Commandant's Gold Medal for achieving the highest distinction in all subjects at the academy.
Bd-Pratidin English/ Afsar Munna
