New Delhi: Union Home Minister Amit Shah recently delivered a powerful address, reminding Bangladesh of the Border Security Force’s (BSF) profound and “big role” in its 1971 Liberation War.
Speaking at the 22nd BSF Investiture Ceremony and the Rustamji Memorial Lecture, Shah highlighted India’s historical solidarity and critical military assistance to its eastern neighbour, asserting that Bangladesh should never forget the BSF’s pivotal involvement in its creation.
Shah also took the opportunity to commend India’s armed forces for their recent decisive actions, particularly Operation Sindoor. He highlighted a significant shift in India’s response to cross-border aggression, stating that for too long, Pakistan’s provocations had gone unanswered. “We never gave an appropriate answer to Pakistan,” he remarked, acknowledging the dedication of the police, army, and BSF but emphasising a change in strategy since the BJP government assumed power in 2014.
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He recalled India’s firm responses to major terror incidents: the surgical strike after the Uri attack, the air strike following the Pulwama attack, and most recently, Operation Sindoor, launched in response to the Pahalgam attack, where innocent tourists were killed. “Operation Sindoor was the reply to it. The world is appreciating us for this. I salute the Army,” Shah affirmed, highlighting India’s new resolve to deliver a fitting response to every act of aggression.
Lauding the BSF as a “world-class force” and a beacon of patriotism, Shah noted that it was entrusted with guarding India’s two most challenging borders, with Bangladesh and Pakistan. He praised their exceptional capabilities in securing these crucial frontiers, paying solemn tribute to the more than 2,000 border guards who have made the ultimate sacrifice since the BSF’s inception in 1965. Founded by K. F. Rustamji, the BSF remains the world’s largest border-guarding force, with approximately 2.75 lakh (275,000) personnel dedicated to protecting India’s sovereignty.
