1971 Indian war veteran slams Bangladesh over flag desecration, minority persecution

Samarendra Kumar Mondal, a former Indian soldier who participated in the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War, has publicly criticized recent incidents involving the desecration of the Indian national flag and the ongoing persecution of religious minorities, particularly Hindus, in Bangladesh. Mondal, now 72 years old, resides in the Mission area of Kalna, West Bengal. At the age of 22, he joined the Indian Army and later took part in Operation Cactus Lily, a mission that supported the Bangladeshi Liberation War against Pakistan’s military.

Mondal was one of the many Indian soldiers who, under the direction of Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, assisted in the Bangladesh Liberation War. The operation, which lasted from December 3, 1971, to December 16, 1971, helped secure Bangladesh’s independence. The Indian forces worked alongside the Mukti Bahini (Bangladeshi freedom fighters) to oust Pakistani forces from the territory. Mondal’s service was part of India’s broader military and humanitarian support for the independence movement in Bangladesh.

In recent years, there have been reports of violence against Hindu minorities in Bangladesh. These include incidents of religious intolerance, forced displacement, destruction of property, and attacks on individuals. Mondal specifically mentioned his distress over the image of the Indian national flag being desecrated in Bangladesh. Such acts have drawn attention due to the historical relationship between the two nations and the role that Indian forces played in securing Bangladesh's independence. Mondal expressed his dismay, citing that the current situation contradicts the sacrifices made by Indian soldiers during the war.

Mondal also emphasized the responsibility of the Bangladeshi government to protect its minorities, noting that it is the state’s duty to ensure the safety of all citizens, regardless of religion. The criticism comes amid increasing concerns over the security of Hindus, who make up a minority in Bangladesh, but have faced a disproportionate amount of violence in recent years. According to multiple reports, minority communities have faced targeted attacks, including the destruction of Hindu temples, homes, and businesses.

In addition, Mondal raised questions about the role of Bangladeshi public figures such as Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus. Yunus, known for his work with microfinance and social businesses, has been a prominent figure in Bangladesh and internationally. Mondal’s remarks suggest a call for greater attention to the protection of religious minorities in Bangladesh, urging both the Bangladeshi government and international organizations to take more direct action in addressing the ongoing violence and discrimination faced by these communities.