It would have been difficult for the nation to achieve independence within the shortest time, if Indira Gandhi, then prime minister of India, had not extended cooperation during the War of Liberation, they said at a discussion marking the 22nd death anniversary of Indira Gandhi.

The Indian High Commission and the Lieutenant General Jagjit Singh Aurora Foundation jointly organised the memorial meeting at the Liberation War Museum in the city.

The speakers paid tribute to Indira Gandhi for her contribution to the liberation war, saying that she played an important role during the critical period.

"Like Bangladesh, India is also a victim of fundamentalism and communalism, as evident from the recent bomb blasts in Delhi. The real tribute would be paid to her when we would be able to fight militancy internationally," said Rashed Khan Menon, president of the Workers Party.

Sarbajit Chakrabarti, acting high commissioner of India, said implementing the ideal of a non-communal world cherished by Indira Gandhi could enrich both Bangladesh and India.

Awami League leader Abdur Razzak called for implementing the initiatives to name a road after Indira Gandhi and set up a memorial to the Indian soldiers martyred during the liberation war.

Prof Abul Barkat, a trustee of the Aurora Foundation, called on the pro-liberation forces to be united to resist the fundamentalists who are now stepping up their activities in the country.

Lt. Gen. (Retd.) KM Shafiullah, Bangabir Kader Siddiqui, AL leader Mizanur Rahman Chowdhury and General Secretary of the Communist Party of Bangladesh Mujahidul Islam Selim also spoke.