Bangladesh President Zillur Rehman on Monday presented the country’s highest award the Swadhinata Sammanona. UPA Chairperson and Congress President Sonia received the award on behalf of Indira Gandhi.
Addressing the gathering at the award ceremony, Bangladesh President Zillur Rehman said that it was a special and historic moment to be written in golden letters as Bangladesh pays homage to Indira Gandhi. He described Indira Gandhi’s contribution to the liberation of Bangladesh as distinct, unique and crucial for the birth of Bangladesh as a nation.
He recalled the role played by Indira Gandhi to mobilize international support and ensure the safe release of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rehman from prison. Recalling her association with Indira Gandhi, an emotionally charged Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina paid rich tributes to the Former Prime Minister for the support she provided to the liberation struggle and humanitarian aid to millions of refugees.
“The honour is not hers (Indira) alone, but also India’s,” said Sonia Gandhi receiving the crest on behalf of her assassinated mother in law.
Gandhi said she was humbled to accept the honour on behalf of Indira Gandhi “with a very full heart as I know she (Indira) would have been overwhelmed by the high honour you have bestowed
on her”.
Congress President Sonia said that Indira Gandhi would have been overwhelmed by the award being conferred upon her.
Sonia Gandhi said that fearlessness and courage were synonymous with Indira Gandhi, and free Bangladesh was a victory for the people of this country while it was the finest hour for Indira Gandhi. Sonia Gandhi also reaffirmed India’s commitment to building the closest friendly relationship with Bangladesh.
Speaking on the occasion, Sheikh Hasina paid deep homage to Indian soldiers of Bangladesh-India Friendship Forces as well as Indira Gandhi for their sacrifices for Bangladesh’s liberation.
“I am personally grateful to the Indian government and Mrs Indira Gandhi for providing shelter to my sister Sheikh Rehana and my family after the brutal assassination of my father Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman in 1975 along with most of our family members,” Hasina said.