Table of Contents
Historical Background
The Indian subcontinent boasted various autonomous kingdoms before the colonial era. Bengal, comprising present-day Bangladesh, West Bengal and surrounding regions, witnessed the rule of Muslim rulers dating back to the 13th century. Partition in 1947 resulted in the establishment of Pakistan, with East Bengal transformed into East Pakistan .
Language Imposition and Cultural Divide
Urdu was promoted as the state language of Pakistan, sparking the Bengali Language Movement and widespread protests against linguistic discrimination. Over the years, the political, economic, and cultural schism between East and West Pakistan intensified, exacerbating tensions within the nation.
Political Struggles and Agartala Conspiracy Case
East Pakistan experienced political upheaval and the Agartala Conspiracy Case implicated leaders like Sheikh Mujibur Rahman in alleged collaboration with India. The case heightened existing tensions, adding to the complex political landscape in the region.
Economic Disparities and Six-Point Demand
Economic disparities, with most resources benefiting from West Pakistan, prompted Sheikh Mujibur Rahman to advocate a six-point demand and seek greater autonomy for East Pakistan. The demand reflected the urgent need for a more equitable distribution of resources and political power and addressed the systemic imbalance between the two regions.
1970 Elections and Political Crisis
The Awami League secured the majority of seats in the 1970 elections; however, political elites in West Pakistan rejected the results, sparking widespread political unrest. The refusal to recognize the election result heightened tensions and worsened the already strained relations between both East and West Pakistan.
Operation Searchlight and Independence Declaration
An intervention by the Pakistan Army in March 1971, known as Operation Searchlight, resulted in mass killings. Sheikh Mujibur Rahman declared the independence of Bangladesh on March 26, 1971, marking a pivotal moment in the struggle for autonomy and freedom from oppressive rule.
Indo-Pak War of 1971
Pakistan launched Operation Chengiz Khan, attacking Indian airfields on 3 December 1971. In response, India strategically deployed defensive measures in the west and launched an offensive sortie in the east. The Mukti Bahini, supported by the Indian Army, played a key role in the liberation of Bangladesh and showed a concerted effort to counter the aggression and pave the way for the independence of Bangladesh.
International Response and Surrender
The international community witnessed the atrocities in East Pakistan, leading to global awareness. The shocking revelation sparked widespread condemnation and calls for intervention. When the gravity of the situation became clear, the Pakistani army surrendered on 16 December 1971, marking the birth of Bangladesh. This historic moment not only marked the end of a brutal conflict, but also heralded the emergence of a new, independent nation on the world stage.
Simla Agreement and Aftermath
The 1972 Simla Agreement formalized Pakistan’s recognition of Bangladesh. Despite this diplomatic milestone, Bangladesh faced significant political challenges, notably marked by the tragic assassination of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman in 1975. As a result, the country succumbed to subsequent military rule, changing its political landscape and complicating the trajectory of its nascent democracy.
Post-Independence Developments
Bangladesh has faced political changes, military coups and leadership changes, with Sheikh Hasina, daughter of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, as the current prime minister. The nation’s political journey has been marked by a series of transitions that reflect the complexities and challenges inherent in the post-independence era. While Sheikh Hasina leads the country, the legacy of her father, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, remains influential in shaping Bangladesh’s political landscape.
2 thoughts on “India Pakistan 1971 War | Bangladesh Liberation | Everything you need to know | 2024”