Speakers at a rally yesterday recalled the contribution of India to the liberation war saying that it was not possible to free the country from the occupation of Pakistan army within only nine months without the help of India.

They said friendship between Bangladesh and India must be strengthened for the greater interest of both the countries.

The rally was organised by Bangladesh-Bharat Sampriti Parishad at the Central Shaheed Minar in the city.

"Around 20,000 to 25,000 Indian soldiers sacrificed their lives during the liberation war. But a vested quarter is now trying to misguide the countrymen through propaganda against India which is very shameful for us," said Major General (Retd) KM Shafiullah Birbikram.

He said India helped Bangladesh in all possible ways in 1971 which should

not be forgotten.

"We should maintain good relations with India as both the countries believe in democracy and secularism," said Journalist Shahrier Kabir, acting president of Ekattorer Ghatok Dalal Nirmul Committee.

He said the ideals of the liberation war should be disseminated among people to save the nation from present political stalemate.

Colonel (Retd) Shakhawat Ali, a former legislator, said thereis no scope for denying the contributions of India and then Soviet Union to the liberation war.

"We should be in good terms with India as it is our closest neighbour," said Prof Nim Chandra Bhoumik, general secretary of Bangladesh-Bharat Sampriti Parishad.

Bangladesh Muktijoddha Sangsad Chairman Prof Abdul Ahad Chowdhury, General Secretary M Salahuddin and Sampriti Parishad leader Abir Aahad and Nazrul Ahsan Pakhi also addressed the rally.