The 1971 India-Pakistan War and the Emergence of Bangladesh
On December 3, 1971, Pakistan launched Operation Chengiz Khan, targeting India's airfields in Amritsar, Pathankot, Jodhpur, Ambala, Agra, and Srinagar, among others. Prime Minister Indira Gandhi announced to the nation that Pakistan had waged war against India. This conflict, known as the India-Pakistan War of 1971, led to the creation of Bangladesh. Let's delve into the causes, key events, and India's role in this significant chapter of history.
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Background
Historical Context:
The Indian subcontinent, once a collection of autonomous kingdoms, saw Muslim rule in the Bengal region from the 13th century. The East India Company took control in 1757, leading to British rule until the partition of India and Pakistan in 1947. The partition, based on religious lines, divided Bengal into West Bengal (India) and East Bengal (Pakistan), despite their shared language and culture.
Pre-Partition Tensions
The All India Muslim League's Lahore Resolution of 1940 demanded a separate state for Muslims, fearing minority status in a united India. The partition disrupted social, commercial, and cultural relations, dividing Punjab and Bengal and creating deep-rooted tensions.
The Rise of East Pakistan's Discontent
Political and Economic Disparities:
Although East Pakistan (now Bangladesh) had a larger population, political power was concentrated in West Pakistan. The central government dominated, with little representation for East Pakistan in politics, bureaucracy, and the military. Economically, West Pakistan received the majority of national spending, despite East Pakistan contributing 62% of the revenue.
Language Imposition and Cultural Suppression
West Pakistan's leaders, including Muhammad Ali Jinnah, sought to unify Pakistan under Urdu, marginalizing Bengali, the mother tongue of East Pakistanis. This led to the Bengali Language Movement, culminating in a violent crackdown on February 21, 1952, when Pakistani forces killed five protesters. This day is now commemorated as Language Martyrs' Day.
Escalation to War
Political Unrest and the Agartala Conspiracy Case:In 1968, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman of the Awami League demanded greater autonomy for East Pakistan through his six-point demand, which the West Pakistani government rejected. Accused of conspiracy against Pakistan, Mujib and others were arrested, leading to widespread protests. The Agartala Conspiracy Case intensified East Pakistan's desire for independence.
The 1970 Elections and the Push for Independence
The 1970 elections saw the Awami League win a majority in East Pakistan but no seats in West Pakistan. The central government's refusal to honor the results led to massive protests. On March 7, 1971, Mujib called for non-cooperation, and the independence movement gained momentum.
The War and Creation of Bangladesh
Operation Searchlight and the Genocide:
On March 25, 1971, Pakistan launched Operation Searchlight to suppress the independence movement, resulting in the massacre of thousands of Bengalis. Mujib declared independence, and on March 27, Major Zia-ur-Rehman announced the creation of Bangladesh.
India's Intervention and the Liberation War
India, facing an influx of 10 million refugees, decided to intervene. Prime Minister Indira Gandhi supported the Mukti Bahini, the Bangladeshi freedom fighters. On December 3, 1971, Pakistan preemptively attacked India, but India swiftly responded, focusing on a coordinated offensive in East Pakistan.
International Response and Pakistan's Surrender
The United Nations called for a ceasefire, but the Soviet Union vetoed the resolution, supporting India's stance. By December 16, 1971, Pakistani forces in Dhaka surrendered to the Indian Army and Mukti Bahini, marking the end of the war. This event is known as the world's largest surrender since World War II.
Aftermath and Recognition
Establishment of Bangladesh:Bangladesh was officially recognized by Bhutan on December 6, 1971, followed by India. The Shimla Agreement in 1972 saw Pakistan acknowledge Bangladesh's independence, and the United Nations recognized it in 1974.
Political Changes in Pakistan and Bangladesh
Yahya Khan's dictatorship in Pakistan collapsed, and Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto became President. Mujib returned to Dhaka as a hero and led Bangladesh until his assassination in 1975. Bangladesh experienced military coups until Mujib's daughter, Sheikh Hasina, took power in 2009, continuing to lead the country today.
Conclusion
The 1971 war and the creation of Bangladesh highlight the consequences of political and cultural suppression. The imposition of Urdu and the denial of political representation fueled East Pakistan's demand for independence. The story of Bangladesh serves as a lesson on the importance of respecting linguistic and cultural diversity to maintain national unity.
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