“1971 War Was a Total Affair – Not Just Military, but Politics and Diplomacy”: Gen VN Sharma

GG News Bureau
New Delhi, 12th August. Former Army Chief Gen VN Sharma (retd) highlighted the multifaceted nature of warfare during the launch of the book 1971 Strategy Campaign Valor on Sunday.

Speaking at the India International Centre, Gen Sharma emphasized that the 1971 India-Pakistan conflict was a “total affair” involving not just military operations but also political and diplomatic efforts.

The book, authored by 22-year-old Satyajit Lall, commemorates the Indian heroes of the war that led to the creation of Bangladesh. It details pivotal battles and the strategic maneuvers of the conflict, starting with the chapter titled ‘A bloodbath in Dacca.’ The launch, attended by Indian Air Force Chief Air Chief Marshal V R Chaudhari and former Delhi Lt Governor Anil Baijal, coincided with significant political events in Bangladesh, including the fall of Sheikh Hasina’s government and the formation of an interim administration.

Gen Sharma, who served as the Army chief from 1988 to 1990 and participated in the 1971 war as a colonel, shared his reflections on the conflict. He praised then-Prime Minister Indira Gandhi for her exceptional leadership, stating, “She did a great job.”

He said that war encompasses not only military strategy but also the combined efforts of the entire government, civil services, police, and other sectors under the Prime Minister’s directive.

The retired general highlighted that the lessons from 1971 demonstrate that warfare is a holistic endeavor involving politics, diplomacy, and military strategy. He noted the importance of integrating these elements to form a cohesive and powerful force.

The event also featured remarks from other veterans who recounted their experiences during the war. Air Marshal Anil Chopra (retd) reflected on his time at the National Defence Academy during the conflict, while Lieutenant General Syed Ata Hasnain (retd) praised the book for its potential to engage younger generations with the history of the 1971 war.

Baijal shared his own experiences from 1971, recalling his role in managing the influx of refugees from East Pakistan to Assam.

The discussion also covered the contributions of air power and the Indian Navy in achieving victory.