MR. CHAIRMAN: Leader of the House, do you wish to say anything?
THE LEADER OF THE HOUSE (SHRI UMASHANKAR DIKSHIT):
Mr. Chairman, Sir, I want to associate myself with the sentiments expressed by every section of the House congratulating the Prime Minister upon the great and historical announcement. It is, I would say, one of the most historical decisions made by the independent, Republic of India. sir, it is a unique privilege and I regard it is a great day in my life as a Member of Parliament and Leader of the H, and I think every Member of the House will agree with me that is a great day all of us to be associated and to be a witness on this occasion this great decision. It will have great historical implications and repercussions in future and established Indians' reputation as a county which has stood for human rights, fought for them and supported everyone who has come to it for rescue and help in times of distress. At this time it is a matter of great and deep satisfaction that the entire opposition-except the solitary and unfortunate exception of Mr. Rajnarain who, I believe, represents nobody but himself, except for that member-the entire House has unity on this occasion. And at this time, Sir, my mind goes to the gallant people of Bangladesh fighting for their freedom, and our officers and Jawans fighting them to defeat aggression.
Sir, it is also exceedingly remarkable that the leading Members of the Apposition have not only appreciated and welcomed this decision and the announcement but they have also appreciated, admired and recognized the wisdom of the choice of the time at which this decision has been taken. Sir, this day will go down as a red letter day in our history. Sir, I have no doubt that our officers and our Jawans will make glorious history in day to come. But I would request you, Sir and request all the Members of the House to remember that we have to take our triumphs, our fight and our victories in a spirit of restraint and dignity, though it is time for joy and it is time for congratulations. I think Ganga Babu and some other esteemed Members have pointed out this we have to remember that the fight is still to go on the fight has to end in the upholding of the great traditions and the treat principles for which we have responded, and in the defense of our country which has been attacked by a neighbor so want only and so suddenly.
Sir, on this occasion I completely associate myself on behalf of the Treasury Benches with the unity and solidarity expressed by the Opposition and I think it is a matter for congratulation. Thank you. Sir.
MR. CHAIRMAN: Madame Prime Minister. I also wish to congratulate you on this occasion and I want that we should express our best wishes as I am doing on your behalf, for independent Bangladesh.
The House stands adjourned till 10 o'clock tomorrow.
The House then adjourned at thirteen minutes past twelve of the clock till ten of the clock on Tuesday, the 7th December, 1971.
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