Introduction
The Bangladesh Liberation War of 1971 was a defining moment in South Asian history, leading to the creation of Bangladesh and altering regional geopolitics. It was marked by political turmoil, military repression, mass atrocities, and India’s decisive intervention. Understanding this war is crucial for UPSC aspirants as it covers topics related to modern Indian history, international relations, and security studies.
This eBook provides a structured overview of the causes, events, and consequences of the Bangladesh Liberation War, equipping aspirants with essential facts and analytical insights.
Historical Background
Partition of 1947 and Creation of Pakistan
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In 1947, British India was divided into India and Pakistan.
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Pakistan had two wings: West Pakistan (now Pakistan) and East Pakistan (now Bangladesh), separated by 1,600 km of Indian territory.
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Despite East Pakistan’s larger population, political and economic power was concentrated in West Pakistan.
Growing Discontent in East Pakistan
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Linguistic Discrimination: The imposition of Urdu as the national language led to protests, culminating in the 1952 Language Movement.
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Economic Exploitation: East Pakistan contributed 70% of Pakistan’s export revenue but received little investment.
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Political Marginalization: The Awami League, led by Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, advocated autonomy through its Six-Point Movement.
Prelude to War
1970 General Elections and Political Crisis
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The Awami League won 160 out of 162 East Pakistani seats in Pakistan’s National Assembly, gaining an absolute majority.
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Zulfikar Ali Bhutto and the military leadership in West Pakistan refused to transfer power.
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March 7, 1971: Sheikh Mujibur Rahman called for civil disobedience in Dhaka’s Racecourse Ground Speech.
Operation Searchlight: The Crackdown on March 25, 1971
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The Pakistan Army launched a military operation to suppress the movement.
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Dhaka University was attacked; intellectuals, students, and civilians were massacred.
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Sheikh Mujibur Rahman was arrested and taken to West Pakistan.
The Liberation War Begins
Declaration of Independence
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On March 26, 1971, Major Ziaur Rahman declared Bangladesh’s independence on behalf of Mujibur Rahman.
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The Mukti Bahini (freedom fighters) launched a guerrilla war against Pakistani forces.
Indian Support and Refugee Crisis
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Nearly 10 million refugees fled to India, prompting humanitarian and strategic concerns.
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Prime Minister Indira Gandhi extended support, providing training and arms to Mukti Bahini.
Formation of the Bangladesh Government in Exile
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Established in April 1971 in Mujibnagar, India.
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Tajuddin Ahmad served as the first Prime Minister of Bangladesh in exile.
India’s Intervention and Final War
Indo-Pakistani War of 1971
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On December 3, 1971, Pakistan launched airstrikes on Indian airbases, prompting India’s official entry into the war.
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Indian Army & Mukti Bahini launched a multi-front offensive against Pakistani forces.
Victory and Surrender
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December 16, 1971: Pakistani forces under Lt. Gen. A. A. K. Niazi surrendered to the joint Indian and Bangladeshi forces in Dhaka.
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93,000 Pakistani troops surrendered, marking the largest surrender since World War II.
Aftermath and Impact
Creation of Bangladesh
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December 16, 1971: Bangladesh became an independent nation.
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Sheikh Mujibur Rahman was released and returned to Dhaka in January 1972.
Geopolitical Consequences
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India’s Regional Influence: India emerged as a dominant power in South Asia.
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Pakistan’s Political Crisis: The defeat led to the fall of Yahya Khan and Bhutto’s rise to power.
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Cold War Dynamics: The U.S. supported Pakistan, while the USSR backed India, intensifying Cold War tensions.
Lessons for UPSC Aspirants
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Role of Political Movements: The impact of democracy, nationalism, and civil disobedience in shaping history.
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Humanitarian Aspects: The war saw genocide, mass displacement, and war crimes.
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India’s Foreign Policy: The war highlights India’s strategic decision-making and diplomatic maneuvers.
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International Relations: The role of superpowers in regional conflicts (U.S., USSR, China).
Conclusion
The Bangladesh Liberation War was not just a military conflict but a struggle for self-determination, justice, and democracy. It remains a crucial event in South Asian history, shaping regional geopolitics and India’s strategic landscape.
For UPSC aspirants, understanding the war provides key insights into India’s role in international affairs, the challenges of decolonization, and the power of nationalist movements.
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