History of the Emergence of Independent Bangladesh

Answers to the Suggestions for Final Term [Fall – 2024]

CSE – 61 Batch

1. Narrate the factors that developed Bengali Nationalism in East Pakistan

Bengali nationalism in East Pakistan was the result of deep-seated political,
cultural, and economic disparities between the two wings of Pakistan:
• Linguistic Identity: The attempt to impose Urdu as the sole state
language by West Pakistan's ruling elite in the early 1950s created
resentment among Bengalis, who comprised the majority population.
Prime Minister Nazimuddin's declaration in 1952 intensified tensions and
led to the Language Movement, during which many students and
activists sacrificed their lives for the recognition of Bangla. This
movement became a cornerstone of Bengali nationalism, highlighting
the cultural and linguistic distinctiveness of East Pakistan (Chapter 1, p.
16).
• Economic Disparities: Despite East Pakistan's significant contributions
to the national economy through its agricultural production and jute
exports, it was systematically neglected in terms of resource allocation.
The disparity in development projects and infrastructure spending
created a sense of exploitation and fueled economic grievances, which
became key drivers of nationalist sentiment (Chapter 1, pp. 14–15).
• Political Discrimination: West Pakistan's dominance in governance, the
military, and civil services further alienated East Pakistan. Despite having
the larger population, Bengalis were sidelined in decision-making
processes, which fostered frustration and a growing demand for political
autonomy (Chapter 1, pp. 14–16).
• Cultural Differences: The cultural divide between the two regions was
stark. While West Pakistan was influenced by Middle Eastern traditions,
East Pakistan had a diverse culture shaped by Hindu, Buddhist, Islamic,
and British legacies. This cultural richness in East Pakistan further
reinforced its unique identity, distinct from West Pakistan (Chapter 1, p.
14).
These factors collectively nurtured the rise of Bengali nationalism, culminating
in a demand for autonomy and eventually leading to the Liberation War of
1971.

2. Explain how political mobilization in East Pakistan was made and from
the very beginning
Political mobilization in East Pakistan was a gradual but persistent process,
evolving through significant milestones and leadership efforts:
• Early Mobilization: The formation of Pakistan initially brought hopes of
Muslim unity. However, the East Pakistani population soon became
disillusioned as their political and economic concerns were
overshadowed by the West Pakistani ruling elite. This initial alienation
laid the groundwork for later political resistance (Chapter 1, p. 13).
• Language Movement: The movement to establish Bangla as one of the
state languages of Pakistan began as a response to cultural and linguistic
oppression. The protests of 1952, particularly those led by students,
were pivotal in creating a sense of unity and shared purpose among
Bengalis. This movement not only succeeded in making Bangla a state
language but also marked the beginning of organized political activism
in East Pakistan (Chapter 1, p. 16).
• Awami League Leadership: The Awami League emerged as the
primary political force championing Bengali rights. Led by Sheikh
Mujibur Rahman, the party advocated for regional autonomy and fair
representation. Its role in articulating Bengali grievances and mobilizing
public support made it a key player in the political landscape of East
Pakistan (Chapter 1, p. 16).
• Mass Movements: The 1960s witnessed the rise of mass movements
such as the Six-Point Movement and the 1969 Mass Upsurge. These
events galvanized public opinion against systemic discrimination and
united people across classes and regions. Political mobilization during
this period became increasingly robust and aimed at achieving greater
autonomy for East Pakistan (Chapter 1, pp. 16–17).
This continuous political mobilization, deeply rooted in the socio-political and
economic realities of East Pakistan, ultimately laid the foundation for the
independence movement of 1971.

3. Explain the reason and impact of the Agartala Conspiracy Case

The Agartala Conspiracy Case of 1968 was a fabricated legal case orchestrated
by the Ayub Khan regime to suppress the growing autonomy movement in
East Pakistan:
• Reason:
The case alleged that Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and others conspired with
India to declare East Pakistan an independent state. The Pakistani
government aimed to discredit Mujib and curb the increasing
momentum of Bengali nationalism. However, the accusations lacked
credible evidence and were seen as an attempt to silence opposition
(Chapter 1, p. 16).
• Impact:
o Heightened Political Awareness: The trial drew widespread
attention to the grievances of Bengalis, uniting people in East
Pakistan around their demand for autonomy. The case highlighted
the systemic discrimination faced by Bengalis and increased
political consciousness among the masses.
o Massive Protests and Civil Unrest: The arrest of Sheikh Mujib
provoked protests across East Pakistan, with students, workers,
and the general public taking to the streets. These demonstrations
forced the government to withdraw the case and release Mujib in
1969 (Chapter 1, p. 17).
o Strengthened Leadership: Sheikh Mujibur Rahman emerged
from the trial as a national hero and the undisputed leader of East
Pakistan. His popularity soared, setting the stage for the Awami
League's dominance in the 1970 elections (Chapter 1, p. 17).
o Downfall of Ayub Khan: The case backfired on Ayub Khan's
government, further eroding his credibility and intensifying the
 anti-Ayub movement. The political unrest contributed to Ayub
Khan's resignation in 1969, marking a turning point in Pakistan's
history (Chapter 1, p. 17).
The Agartala Conspiracy Case, intended to suppress the Bengali autonomy
movement, instead became a catalyst for greater political unity and resistance,
accelerating the journey toward independence.

4. Explain how Agartala Conspiracy Case became the boomerang/bounce

back to General Ayub Khan

The Agartala Conspiracy Case, launched in 1968 by the Ayub Khan

government, was intended to cripple the rising tide of Bengali nationalism by
discrediting Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and his followers. However, the case not
only failed to achieve its goal but also hastened Ayub Khan's downfall,
becoming a significant turning point in the political history of Pakistan.

• Widespread Public Outrage and Mobilization:

The arrest of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, along with 34 others, sparked
immediate protests and demonstrations across East Pakistan. The public
perceived the case as an unjust attack on the Bengali leadership, and it
quickly became a rallying point for broader demands for autonomy.
University students, labor unions, and political activists joined forces,
creating an unprecedented wave of political mobilization. The scale and
intensity of the protests exposed the fragility of Ayub Khan’s control over
East Pakistan (Chapter 1, p. 17).
• Symbol of Resistance:
Instead of weakening Sheikh Mujib’s influence, the trial turned him into a
symbol of Bengali resistance and a champion of the autonomy
movement. His steadfastness during the trial and refusal to compromise
with West Pakistani authorities enhanced his stature, drawing admiration
from Bengalis across classes and regions. By the time the case was
withdrawn in early 1969, Mujib had solidified his position as the
undisputed leader of East Pakistan (Chapter 1, p. 17).
• Ayub Khan’s Political Miscalculation:
The case exposed the disconnect between Ayub Khan’s government and
the realities on the ground in East Pakistan. What was intended as a
calculated move to eliminate opposition resulted in mass protests,
paralyzing governance and increasing instability. The inability to contain
 the unrest signaled the weakening grip of Ayub’s administration, forcing
him to engage in dialogue with opposition forces, further diminishing his
authority (Chapter 1, p. 17).
• National-Level Consequences:
The political fallout was not confined to East Pakistan. Protests erupted in
West Pakistan as well, where opposition groups seized the moment to
challenge Ayub Khan’s rule. The combined pressure from both wings of
the country left Ayub isolated, leading to his resignation in March 1969.
The Agartala Conspiracy Case became a catalyst for this political shift,
demonstrating the limits of authoritarian repression in the face of
popular movements (Chapter 1, p. 17).

Ultimately, the Agartala Conspiracy Case, intended to crush opposition,

instead accelerated Ayub Khan's departure and intensified demands for
autonomy, laying the groundwork for the eventual independence movement.

5. Define Military Intervention, Military Regime, and Military Government.

The terms "Military Intervention," "Military Regime," and "Military Government"

are critical to understanding the role of the armed forces in shaping political
developments, particularly in the context of East Pakistan. These concepts help
explain how military forces influence governance and political structures.

• Military Intervention:
Military intervention refers to the direct involvement of armed forces in
the political affairs of a nation, often through a coup or forceful takeover.
This typically occurs during political instability, economic crises, or
perceived governance failures. In the context of East Pakistan,
interventions by the Pakistan Army played a critical role in shaping the
political landscape, particularly during the 1971 Liberation War (Chapter
1, p. 17).
• Military Regime:
A military regime is a form of authoritarian government where political
power is concentrated in the hands of military leaders. Civilian
institutions are either suppressed or heavily controlled by the military. In
Pakistan, the rule of Ayub Khan (1958–1969) and Yahya Khan (1969–
1971) exemplified military regimes that sought to centralize power and
limit regional autonomy, contributing to the tensions that led to the
Liberation War (Chapter 1, p. 16).
 • Military Government:
Military government refers to the administration of a country by military
officials, often established following a successful coup. This form of
government often suspends the constitution, dissolves civilian political
structures, and imposes martial law. The military government of Ayub
Khan introduced policies that favored West Pakistan, further alienating
East Pakistan (Chapter 1, p. 14).

These definitions provide insight into the mechanisms through which military
forces influence political power, shaping the history of East and West Pakistan.

6. Write a brief essay on the ironic Military regime of Ayub Khan

The military regime of Ayub Khan, which began in 1958, was marked by a
paradoxical blend of modernization and authoritarianism.
• The Promise of Reform: Ayub Khan presented himself as a modernizer
who would bring political stability and economic development. He
introduced significant reforms, such as the Basic Democracies system,
aimed at involving grassroots participation in governance. His era also
saw the initiation of industrial and infrastructure development, earning
him praise initially (Chapter 1, p. 16).
• Authoritarian Rule: Despite his promises of democracy, Ayub Khan's
regime was deeply authoritarian. Political parties were suppressed, and
the press faced strict censorship. The imposition of martial law curtailed
civil liberties, creating an environment of fear and control. His refusal to
accommodate Bengali demands for representation further alienated
East Pakistan (Chapter 1, p. 14).
• Economic Disparities: While West Pakistan benefited from Ayub Khan's
policies, East Pakistan continued to face economic marginalization. The
failure to address regional disparities led to growing discontent in East
Pakistan, fueling nationalist sentiments (Chapter 1, pp. 14–15).
• Opposition and Downfall: The Agartala Conspiracy Case, the 1969
Mass Upsurge, and widespread dissatisfaction with his regime led to
massive protests. Ayub Khan's inability to manage the political crisis
ultimately forced him to resign in March 1969, ending his decade-long
rule (Chapter 1, p. 17).
The irony of Ayub Khan's regime lies in the contrast between his initial promise
of reform and the eventual erosion of political stability, exacerbating divisions
between East and West Pakistan.

7. List out all 6 points of the historic Six Point Movement

The Six-Point Movement, led by Sheikh Mujibur Rahman in 1966, outlined the
demands for autonomy in East Pakistan. The six points were:
1. Federal Government: Pakistan should adopt a federal constitution
based on the Lahore Resolution of 1940, with a parliamentary system
and supremacy of the legislature.
2. Separate Currencies: East Pakistan should have its own currency, or
both wings should share a single currency under strict guarantees to
prevent economic exploitation.
3. Control Over Trade: East Pakistan should have the right to control its
own trade and maintain separate accounts for foreign exchange
earnings.
4. Fiscal Autonomy: East Pakistan should have the power to levy taxes and
control its fiscal policies.
5. Separate Accounts for Foreign Exchange: Each wing should maintain
its own accounts for foreign currency earnings, with East Pakistan
managing its resources.
6. Defense and Foreign Policy: East Pakistan should have control over its
paramilitary forces, while foreign policy should be managed by the
central government (Chapter 1, pp. 16–17).
These demands aimed to ensure economic and political autonomy for East
Pakistan and became the cornerstone of the Bengali nationalist movement.
8. What was the response of the political leaders and the Government of
West Pakistan to the Six-Point Movement?
The response of West Pakistani political leaders and the central government to
the Six-Point Movement, introduced by Sheikh Mujibur Rahman in 1966, was
largely negative, reflecting their unwillingness to concede to demands for
greater autonomy in East Pakistan.
• Rejection and Suppression:
The West Pakistani leadership, including President Ayub Khan, viewed
the Six-Point Movement as a direct threat to national unity. They feared
that granting East Pakistan more autonomy would weaken the central
government's authority and potentially lead to secession. As a result,
Ayub Khan and his administration rejected the demands outright and
branded the movement as "separatist" in nature (Chapter 1, p. 16).
• Crackdown on Activists:
In response to the growing popularity of the movement, the government
launched a campaign to suppress the Awami League and its supporters.
Political activists advocating for the Six Points were arrested, and public
gatherings were banned. Sheikh Mujibur Rahman himself faced
harassment and was later implicated in the Agartala Conspiracy Case in
an attempt to undermine his leadership (Chapter 1, p. 16).
• Political Division:
West Pakistani politicians, including those from opposition parties, were
divided in their responses. Some, particularly leftist leaders, sympathized
with the economic disparities faced by East Pakistan but stopped short of
supporting the Six-Point demands. Others aligned with Ayub Khan,
reinforcing the central government's position against greater provincial
autonomy (Chapter 1, p. 16).
The harsh response from West Pakistan fueled resentment in East Pakistan,
further consolidating public support for the Awami League and strengthening
the autonomy movement.
9. Describe the results and impact of the Six-Point Movement.
The Six-Point Movement, introduced by Sheikh Mujibur Rahman in 1966,
became a pivotal moment in the history of East Pakistan, shaping the trajectory
toward the eventual independence of Bangladesh.
• Rise of Bengali Nationalism:
The Six-Point Movement transformed the political landscape of East
Pakistan by articulating clear demands for economic and political
autonomy. It resonated deeply with the public, highlighting the ongoing
disparities between East and West Pakistan. This shift marked a turning
point, fostering a strong sense of unity and identity among Bengalis
(Chapter 1, pp. 16–17).
• Awami League's Dominance:
The popularity of the Six Points elevated the Awami League to the
forefront of East Pakistani politics. By the late 1960s, the party had
become the dominant political force in the region, with Sheikh Mujibur
Rahman emerging as the primary leader advocating for Bengali rights
(Chapter 1, p. 17).
• Increased Political Tensions:
The movement heightened tensions between East and West Pakistan,
exacerbating political divisions. The refusal of West Pakistani leaders to
acknowledge the demands led to further alienation of East Pakistan. This
division set the stage for the political crisis of 1970 and the eventual
Non-Cooperation Movement in 1971 (Chapter 1, p. 17).
• Path to Liberation:
Although the Six-Point Movement was not immediately successful in
achieving autonomy, it laid the foundation for the struggle that
culminated in the Liberation War of 1971. The widespread support for
the Six Points demonstrated the desire for self-rule, ultimately
contributing to the demand for full independence (Chapter 1, pp. 16–
17).
The movement's legacy endures as a key milestone in the journey toward
Bangladesh's independence.
10. Why did the student movement of 2024 occur?
The student movement of 2024 erupted as a response to deep-rooted socio-
political, economic, and educational grievances, reflecting widespread
dissatisfaction among the youth of Bangladesh.
• Political Discontent and Governance Failures:
A key factor behind the movement was the perceived failure of
governance, marked by corruption, lack of accountability, and limited
political transparency. Students felt alienated by the government’s
inability to address rising living costs, unemployment, and systemic
inequalities, fostering frustration across educational institutions
(Assignments PDF, Section 2).
• Education and Job Market Disparities:
Students criticized the disconnect between education and employment,
arguing that the current curriculum failed to equip them with the skills
necessary for the job market. Despite high educational qualifications,
many graduates faced underemployment or unemployment, intensifying
the demand for educational reforms and job creation programs
(Assignments PDF, Section 3).
• Economic Inequality and Social Justice:
The movement was also fueled by broader socio-economic issues,
including wealth inequality and marginalization of vulnerable
communities. Students called for a more equitable distribution of
resources and economic opportunities, reflecting their desire for
systemic reforms to create a fairer society (Assignments PDF, Section 3).
• Historical Legacy and National Identity:
Drawing inspiration from historical movements such as the 1952
Language Movement and the 1969 Mass Upsurge, students viewed their
struggle as part of Bangladesh’s long-standing tradition of youth-led
activism. This historical connection gave their demands moral weight
and broader public support, reinforcing the significance of their protest
(Assignments PDF, Section 4).
The student movement of 2024 underscored the critical role of youth in
shaping Bangladesh’s socio-political landscape, demanding justice, equality,
and reform in key sectors.
11. Explain the history and impact of the students and mass upsurge of
2024.
The student and mass upsurge of 2024 emerged as a defining moment in
Bangladesh's contemporary political landscape, echoing the spirit of past
movements that sought justice, democracy, and social reform.
• Origins and Build-up:
The movement began as isolated protests by university students
demanding educational reforms, fair employment practices, and greater
governmental accountability. Over time, it evolved into a broader mass
uprising, drawing support from labor unions, civil society groups, and
the general public. Key events, such as government mishandling of
economic policies and accusations of corruption, acted as catalysts,
triggering large-scale demonstrations across major cities (Assignments
PDF, Section 2).
• Demands and Objectives:
The core demands of the movement included comprehensive
educational reforms, creation of employment opportunities, and
measures to address economic inequality. Protesters also sought
stronger democratic institutions, freedom of speech, and protection of
civil liberties, making it clear that the movement extended beyond
student interests to encompass national concerns (Assignments PDF,
Section 3).
• Methods of Protest:
Inspired by earlier movements, students organized sit-ins, rallies, and
peaceful demonstrations. Social media played a crucial role in mobilizing
participants, amplifying their message, and circumventing traditional
state-controlled media. The widespread use of digital platforms created
a decentralized but cohesive movement that was difficult to suppress
(Assignments PDF, Section 4).
• Impact on Society and Politics:
o Policy Reforms: The movement pressured the government into
initiating discussions on education and employment reforms,
signaling a shift in policy direction. Although not all demands were
immediately met, the government’s acknowledgment of student
grievances marked a significant victory.
 o Political Awareness: The upsurge raised political awareness
among young people, fostering greater civic engagement and
participation in national discourse. This new wave of politically
conscious youth is expected to play a vital role in future elections
and governance.
o Long-Term Legacy: Much like the 1952 and 1969 movements, the
2024 upsurge is likely to be remembered as a pivotal moment in
Bangladesh’s democratic journey. It reinforced the importance of
youth activism and its capacity to drive societal change
(Assignments PDF, Section 4).
The student and mass upsurge of 2024 not only challenged existing power
structures but also redefined the role of youth in shaping the nation’s future,
continuing Bangladesh’s proud tradition of resistance and reform.

12. What was the electoral manifesto of Awami League in the election of
1970?
The Awami League’s electoral manifesto for the 1970 general elections was
centered around the Six-Point Movement, which had become the cornerstone
of their political agenda. The manifesto reflected the aspirations of East
Pakistanis, focusing on autonomy, economic justice, and political
empowerment.
• Autonomy for East Pakistan:
The primary focus of the manifesto was the demand for full autonomy for
East Pakistan, grounded in the Six-Point Movement. The Awami League
called for a federal structure that would grant East Pakistan control over
its own economic policies, trade, and regional governance, while the
central government would retain authority over defense and foreign
affairs (Chapter 1, p. 16).
• Economic Reforms:
The manifesto highlighted the need to address economic disparities
between East and West Pakistan. It emphasized redistributing resources,
ensuring East Pakistan retained greater control over its earnings, and
correcting the long-standing imbalance in economic development
(Chapter 1, p. 15).
 • Social Justice and Equality:
Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’s party promised to address issues of social
justice, including land reforms, poverty alleviation, and the
empowerment of marginalized communities. The manifesto pledged to
work toward reducing income inequality and ensuring the welfare of
farmers and laborers (Chapter 1, p. 16).
• Democratic Governance:
The Awami League stressed the importance of restoring democracy by
ensuring free and fair elections, strengthening parliamentary oversight,
and safeguarding civil liberties. The party committed to resisting
authoritarianism and military interference in politics (Chapter 1, p. 16).
• Language and Culture:
The manifesto also reaffirmed the Awami League’s commitment to
preserving the cultural and linguistic identity of Bengalis. The party
pledged to uphold the recognition of Bangla as a state language,
reflecting the aspirations born out of the Language Movement of 1952
(Chapter 1, p. 16).
The 1970 manifesto resonated deeply with the people of East Pakistan,
contributing to the Awami League’s landslide victory in the elections.

13. Explain the reason that helped Awami League achieve a landslide
victory in the election of 1970.
The Awami League’s overwhelming success in the 1970 general elections was
driven by a combination of political, economic, and cultural factors that aligned
with the aspirations of East Pakistanis.
• The Six-Point Movement:
The Six-Point Movement became the centerpiece of the Awami League’s
campaign, directly addressing the frustrations and demands of East
Pakistanis. By advocating for autonomy and economic justice, Sheikh
Mujibur Rahman’s party captured the imagination of the electorate, who
saw the Six Points as the only viable path to regional empowerment
(Chapter 1, pp. 16–17).
 • Widespread Discontent with West Pakistan:
Decades of economic disparity, political marginalization, and cultural
alienation fueled resentment in East Pakistan. The Awami League’s
promise to rectify these inequalities resonated with voters who felt
neglected by the central government in West Pakistan (Chapter 1, p. 15).
• Charismatic Leadership of Sheikh Mujib:
Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’s leadership played a crucial role in the Awami
League’s success. His ability to connect with the masses, articulate their
grievances, and present a vision for the future made him the most
influential political figure in East Pakistan. Mujib’s reputation as a
defender of Bengali rights solidified the Awami League’s appeal
(Chapter 1, p. 17).
• Failure of Opposition Parties:
The ruling Pakistan Muslim League and other West Pakistani political
parties failed to address the concerns of East Pakistanis. Their reluctance
to endorse meaningful reforms or acknowledge the legitimacy of the Six
Points alienated voters further, creating an environment in which the
Awami League emerged as the only credible political force (Chapter 1,
p. 16).
• Strong Grassroots Mobilization:
The Awami League’s extensive grassroots network allowed the party to
effectively mobilize voters across East Pakistan. Through local organizers,
rallies, and community engagement, the party built a broad coalition of
support that cut across class and regional divides (Chapter 1, p. 17).
In the 1970 elections, the Awami League won 160 out of 162 seats allocated to
East Pakistan in the National Assembly, a clear mandate for their vision of
autonomy and self-determination.
14. Describe the reason and proceedings of the Non-Cooperation
Movement in East Pakistan after the election of 1970.
The Non-Cooperation Movement in East Pakistan following the 1970 general
elections was a direct response to the refusal of West Pakistani authorities to
transfer power to the Awami League, despite their landslide victory.
• Reason for the Movement:
After the Awami League’s overwhelming victory, where it secured 160 of
the 162 seats in East Pakistan, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman effectively held
the majority in the National Assembly. However, West Pakistani leaders,
including President Yahya Khan and Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, were reluctant to
accept this outcome. Bhutto feared losing influence, while Yahya Khan
hesitated to cede authority to a Bengali-led government. This refusal to
convene the National Assembly and transfer power sparked outrage in
East Pakistan (Chapter 1, p. 17).
The Bengali population viewed the delay as an intentional effort to undermine
the democratic mandate of East Pakistan, intensifying demands for greater
autonomy and self-rule. In response, Sheikh Mujib called for a Non-
Cooperation Movement, urging the people of East Pakistan to cease
cooperation with the central government (Chapter 1, p. 17).
• Proceedings of the Movement:
On March 1, 1971, President Yahya Khan indefinitely postponed the
National Assembly session, triggering widespread protests. Sheikh Mujib
declared a program of non-cooperation, effectively creating a parallel
government in East Pakistan. Civil servants, police officers, and even
military personnel in East Pakistan followed Mujib’s directives rather than
orders from West Pakistan (Chapter 1, p. 18).
Key aspects of the movement included:
o Strikes and Boycotts: Government offices, banks, and
educational institutions in East Pakistan ceased operations. Non-
payment of taxes and boycotts of West Pakistani goods were
widespread.
o Control Over Administration: The Awami League assumed de
facto control over East Pakistan’s administration. Mujib issued
 directives from his residence, which were followed by state officials
and the public.
o Unity and Mass Participation: Millions of people across towns
and villages participated, creating one of the largest non-violent
resistance movements in the region.
The Non-Cooperation Movement marked the final phase before the outbreak
of the Liberation War, underscoring the growing divide between East and
West Pakistan.

15. Write an essay on the Mass Upsurge of 1969 and its impact on the
Liberation War of Bangladesh.
The Mass Upsurge of 1969 was a significant turning point in the political
landscape of East Pakistan, laying the foundation for the Liberation War of
1971. This movement, driven by widespread dissatisfaction with the
authoritarian rule of Ayub Khan, became a catalyst for political change and
Bengali nationalism.
• Background and Causes:
By the late 1960s, Ayub Khan’s military regime faced growing opposition
due to economic inequality, political repression, and the marginalization
of East Pakistan. Discontent over the imposition of Urdu, economic
disparities, and the Agartala Conspiracy Case intensified the unrest.
Students, workers, and political activists united in protest, demanding an
end to military rule and greater autonomy for East Pakistan (Chapter 1, p.
16).
• Key Events of the Upsurge:
The movement gained momentum in early 1969 following the arrest of
Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. Students led protests across Dhaka, joined by
workers and opposition political parties. Demonstrations escalated into
violent confrontations with security forces, resulting in casualties that
further fueled public outrage (Chapter 1, p. 17).
A significant moment occurred on February 24, 1969, when Sergeant Zahurul
Haq, one of the accused in the Agartala Conspiracy Case, was killed in custody.
His death intensified protests, culminating in the withdrawal of the case and
the release of Sheikh Mujib in early 1969. The movement eventually forced
Ayub Khan to resign in March 1969, marking the end of his decade-long rule
(Chapter 1, p. 17).
• Impact on the Liberation War:
o Political Awakening: The Mass Upsurge ignited a renewed sense
of political awareness and unity among East Pakistanis, reinforcing
their demands for autonomy and self-governance.
o Strengthening Awami League: The movement elevated Sheikh
Mujibur Rahman as the undisputed leader of East Pakistan. His role
in the protests solidified his position as the voice of the Bengali
people, paving the way for the Awami League’s electoral victory in
1970.
o Weakening of West Pakistani Control: The resignation of Ayub
Khan weakened West Pakistan’s grip over East Pakistan, signaling
that mass mobilization could challenge military authority. This
realization played a critical role in the lead-up to the Liberation
War.
The Mass Upsurge of 1969 was more than just a protest—it was a precursor to
the larger struggle for independence, embedding the seeds of resistance and
national unity that ultimately led to the birth of Bangladesh.

17. Language Movement of 1952 was the source of inspiration for all
further movements in East Pakistan.
The Language Movement of 1952 stands as a cornerstone in the history of
Bangladesh, shaping the trajectory of subsequent political and nationalist
movements in East Pakistan. This movement not only secured the recognition
of Bangla as one of the state languages but also laid the foundation for future
struggles, culminating in the Liberation War of 1971.
• Roots of the Language Movement:
The movement began in response to the decision by the Pakistani
government to impose Urdu as the sole state language. This policy
alienated the majority of East Pakistanis, whose native language was
Bangla. The cultural and linguistic differences between East and West
 Pakistan became a source of deep resentment, fostering the rise of
Bengali nationalism (Chapter 1, p. 14).
• Significance of the Movement:
On February 21, 1952, students and activists organized protests, during
which police opened fire, killing several demonstrators. This tragic event,
commemorated as International Mother Language Day, became a
powerful symbol of resistance against oppression. The movement
ultimately forced the Pakistani government to recognize Bangla as one
of the state languages in 1956 (Chapter 1, p. 16).
• Inspiration for Future Movements:
The success of the Language Movement demonstrated the power of
mass mobilization and the effectiveness of grassroots activism. It instilled
a sense of unity and political consciousness among East Pakistanis,
inspiring subsequent movements, including:
o The Six-Point Movement (1966) – Advocating for greater
autonomy.
o The Mass Upsurge (1969) – Protesting against military rule and
economic disparities.
o The Non-Cooperation Movement (1971) – Leading directly to
the Liberation War (Chapter 1, pp. 16–18).
The Language Movement not only preserved the cultural identity of Bengalis
but also served as a catalyst for political change, reinforcing the belief that
unity and perseverance could challenge West Pakistani dominance.
18. Give a brief and chronological description of the Language Movement
of 1952 and explain how it helped Bengalis to form their national
integration in East Pakistan.
The Language Movement of 1952 unfolded through a series of significant
events that highlighted the determination of East Pakistanis to defend their
linguistic and cultural identity.
• Chronological Description:
o March 1948 – Pakistan’s Governor-General, Mohammad Ali
Jinnah, declared Urdu as the sole national language, igniting
protests in East Pakistan (Chapter 1, p. 14).
o 1948–1951 – Various student-led organizations, such as the
Tamaddun Majlish, campaigned for the recognition of Bangla.
Protests intensified as the government refused to reconsider its
stance.
o February 21, 1952 – Students organized demonstrations in
Dhaka, defying government bans. Police opened fire on
protesters, killing Salam, Rafiq, Barkat, and Jabbar. Their sacrifice
became the symbol of the movement.
o 1954 – The United Front, led by Bengali politicians, won the
provincial elections, further pressuring the central government.
o 1956 – The Pakistani government finally recognized Bangla as one
of the state languages, marking a major victory for the movement
(Chapter 1, p. 16).
• Formation of National Integration:
The Language Movement fostered a sense of national identity among
Bengalis, transcending religious, social, and economic divides. It unified
people across East Pakistan, laying the groundwork for future political
mobilization. The movement emphasized the importance of cultural
preservation, reinforcing Bengali pride and strengthening the collective
resolve to seek autonomy and later independence (Chapter 1, p. 16).
The Language Movement became a pivotal moment in East Pakistan’s history,
shaping the identity of the nation and paving the way for the emergence of
Bangladesh.