Slight Background:
In 1970, Pakistan held its first general elections. The Awami League, led by Sheikh Mujeeb-ur-Rehman, emerged victorious in East Pakistan, while Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto’s Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) gained prominence in West Pakistan. However, neither party was successful in the other region. The Awami League failed to secure any seats in West Pakistan, and similarly, the PPP did not win any seats in East Pakistan. Despite gaining more seats overall, the Awami League was unable to take power due to political rivalries, power struggles, and General Yahya Khan’s reluctance to relinquish control. Additionally, they rejected Sheikh Mujeeb-ur-Rehman’s six points.
Consequently, Sheikh Mujeeb-ur-Rehman raised the flag of Bangladesh at his residence on 23 March 1971. The incarceration of Sheikh Mujeeb-ur-Rehman and India’s intervention exacerbated the situation. The civil conflict escalated to its highest point. Finally, Bangladesh was established on 16 December 1971.
Summary of 1971 War:
In 1971, the internal turmoil led to a third conflict between Pakistan and India. Following a thirteen-day battle, the military Commander of Eastern Pakistan surrendered on 16 December 1971 in Dhaka, leading to the establishment of Bangladesh as a new nation and granting India a significant advantage. This war took place from 3 to 16 December 1971, with India’s involvement exacerbating the existing conflicts.
Around 93,000 Pakistani individuals were captured by the Indian forces. The estimated number of civilian casualties in Bangladesh ranges from 300,000 to 3,000,000. As a result of this conflict, approximately 8 to 10 million people migrated from Pakistan to India in search of refuge. The Indian government facilitated this movement by opening the borderlines of Bihar, Assam, Meghalaya, Tripura, and West Bengal. Tragically, between 200,000 to 400,000 Bangladeshi women and girls fell victim to rape. This war not only caused significant loss of life but also resulted in the displacement of more than half of Pakistan’s population and one-third of its military. Furthermore, this achievement highlighted India’s involvement in foreign politics.
During the independence of Bangladesh and Pakistan’s military surrender, Prime Minister of India, Indira Gandhi, proclaimed in the Indian Parliament: “Now, Dhaka stands as the liberated capital of an independent country. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to the people of Bangladesh in this moment of triumph.”
