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The Liberation War of 1971
Introduction
The Liberation War of 1971 is a pivotal chapter in the history of Bangladesh,
marking its struggle for independence from Pakistan. This conflict lasted from
March to December 1971 and was characterized by mass atrocities, courageous
resistance, and eventual victory, leading to the birth of an independent nation.
Let’s explore the first four aspects of this transformative event:
(a) Genocide, Oppression on Women, Refugee Crisis
The Pakistani military launched Operation Searchlight on March 25, 1971,
targeting civilians, students, and intellectuals, especially in Dhaka. This led to
widespread killings, with estimates of fatalities ranging from hundreds of
thousands to three million. The atrocities included mass rapes, with reports
suggesting over 200,000 women were victimized. Many women, termed
Birangonas (war heroines), showed incredible resilience despite societal stigmas.
The violence led to a massive refugee crisis, with approximately 10 million
people fleeing to India, straining its resources. Refugee camps became symbols
of the humanitarian crisis, and the international community's delayed response
highlighted the enormity of the tragedy
(b) Formation of the Government and Declaration of
Independence
On March 26, 1971, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman declared Bangladesh's
independence following the brutal crackdown. Although Mujib was arrested and
taken to West Pakistan, his leadership inspired resistance. The provisional
government, led by Tajuddin Ahmad as Prime Minister and based in exile in
India, issued a proclamation on April 10, formalizing the declaration of
independence.
This government, known as the Mujibnagar Government, coordinated efforts
with freedom fighters and garnered international support for Bangladesh's cause.
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(c) Primary and Organized Resistance
The early phase saw spontaneous uprisings, with civilians and defected military
personnel forming local resistance groups. Over time, these efforts coalesced into
an organized force:
• Mukti Bahini (Liberation Army): Comprised of defected soldiers and
civilians, it waged guerrilla warfare against the Pakistani military.
• Guerrilla and Front Warfare: Fighters disrupted supply lines, attacked
military convoys, and launched raids from bases in India.
• Leadership: Figures like Colonel M. A. G. Osmani played crucial roles in
uniting fragmented resistance forces into a formidable military front.
(d) Publicity Media
The Swadhin Bangla Betar Kendra (Independent Bengali Radio Station)
emerged as a vital tool for rallying public support and spreading news of the
independence struggle. It broadcast patriotic songs, news, and morale-boosting
messages, becoming a symbol of hope.
Foreign media, such as the BBC and The New York Times, played a critical role
in exposing the atrocities to the global audience, fostering international sympathy.
Public opinion, particularly in countries like India and the UK, was shaped by
these reports, putting pressure on governments to act.
(e) Contribution of Students, Women, and the General Public
(Mass War)
The Liberation War was a people’s movement involving students, women, and
ordinary citizens:
• Students: Played a leading role in organizing protests, forming guerrilla
units, and spreading awareness. Many joined the Mukti Bahini or acted as
liaisons between local groups and freedom fighters.
• Women: Aside from enduring immense suffering, women actively
contributed by providing shelter to fighters, working as nurses, and even
participating directly in combat. The term Birangona honors their
sacrifices and bravery.
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• General Public: Villagers provided intelligence, food, and logistical
support to guerrillas. Their collective efforts exemplified the spirit of mass
resistance, turning ordinary individuals into freedom fighters.
(f) Role of Superpowers in the Liberation War
International superpowers had varied reactions to the war:
• India: Actively supported Bangladesh, providing training to Mukti Bahini
fighters, sheltering refugees, and ultimately intervening militarily in
December 1971.
• USA: Supported Pakistan due to Cold War alliances, providing diplomatic
backing and arms. This stance faced criticism, especially after reports of
genocide became public.
• Soviet Union: Supported Bangladesh and India, countering U.S. influence
by vetoing anti-India resolutions in the UN Security Council.
• China: Remained allied with Pakistan, avoiding direct intervention but
opposing India and Bangladesh diplomatically.
(g) Anti-Liberation Activities
Certain groups and individuals collaborated with the Pakistani military, opposing
the independence movement:
• Peace Committees: Formed to suppress pro-liberation efforts, these
groups worked with the Pakistani army to identify and target independence
activists.
• Al-Badr, Al-Shams, and Razakars: Paramilitary forces that carried out
atrocities, including the killing of intellectuals during the war's final days.
• Political Parties: Some parties opposed independence, fearing loss of
power or ideological shifts. Their involvement in anti-liberation activities
left lasting scars on Bangladesh's history.
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(h) Trial of Bangabandhu and World Reaction
Sheikh Mujibur Rahman was arrested by the Pakistani army and imprisoned in
West Pakistan during the war. He was tried in a secret military tribunal under
charges of sedition and treason. Despite the trial, international leaders, including
India's Indira Gandhi, campaigned for his release. Global protests and diplomatic
pressure eventually led to his return to independent Bangladesh in January 1972,
hailed as the Father of the Nation
(i) Role of Expatriate Bengalis and Civil Society Worldwide
Expatriate Bangladeshis and global civil society were instrumental in raising
awareness and garnering international support:
• Expatriate Communities: Bengali communities in the UK, USA, and
other nations organized rallies, raised funds, and lobbied governments to
recognize Bangladesh’s independence. They published newsletters,
distributed leaflets, and mobilized public opinion.
• Civil Society: Influential figures like George Harrison and Ravi Shankar
organized events such as the Concert for Bangladesh, which brought
global attention to the humanitarian crisis and the.
• Global Protests: Students and activists across the world demonstrated
against the Pakistani military’s actions, urging their governments to
intervene or provide humanitarian assistance.
(j) Contribution of India in the Liberation War
India played a decisive role in Bangladesh’s liberation:
1. Shelter and Support: India hosted nearly 10 million refugees, despite
immense economic and logistical challenges. It also trained and armed the
Mukti Bahini fighters.
2. Military Intervention: On December 3, 1971, after Pakistani attacks on
Indian territory, India officially entered the war. Indian forces, alongside
Mukti Bahini fighters, launched coordinated attacks against the Pakistani
army, leading to a swift victory.
3. Diplomatic Efforts: India worked tirelessly to garner international support
for Bangladesh’s cause, formally recognizing its independence on
December 6, 1971
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(k) Formation of Joint Forces and the Victory
In December 1971, the Mukti Bahini and the Indian Army formed the Joint
Command, a unified strategy to liberate Bangladesh:
• Military Campaigns: The joint forces executed well-coordinated
operations, including the liberation of key areas such as Dhaka.
• Surrender: On December 16, 1971, the Pakistani army, led by General A.
A. K. Niazi, surrendered to the joint forces in Dhaka, marking the end of
the war. This victory was celebrated as Victory Day (Bijoy Dibosh) in
Bangladesh.
(l) Leadership of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman
Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, though imprisoned in Pakistan during the war,
remained the symbolic leader of Bangladesh's independence movement. His
vision for a free and just nation inspired millions to fight for liberation. After the
war, he returned to an independent Bangladesh on January 10, 1972, to assume
his role as the Father of the Nation. His leadership provided the foundation for
rebuilding the war-torn country
Conclusion
The Liberation War of 1971 is a testament to the resilience and determination of
the Bengali people in their quest for freedom. Despite enduring one of the most
brutal genocides of the 20th century, they emerged victorious, establishing
Bangladesh as an independent nation. This war not only reflects the courage of
the Mukti Bahini and the sacrifices of ordinary citizens but also highlights the
roles of international allies, such as India, and the enduring leadership of Sheikh
Mujibur Rahman. The war’s legacy continues to shape Bangladesh’s identity and
commitment to justice and human rights.
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References
1. Genocide and Atrocities: "Bangladesh: Genocide and Mass Violence,"
Yale Genocide Studies Program. Available at Yale.edu
National Archives , Facts and Details
2. Formation of Government: "The Proclamation of Independence,"
Bangladesh Government Archives. See BangladeshGov
Wikipedia
3. Role of Media and International Opinion: "The Concert for Bangladesh
and Global Awareness," History Extra. Available at HistoryExtra.com
Facts and Details
4. Military and Strategic Contributions: "The Joint Command and
Liberation," Indian Army's Official Records. Available at
IndianArmy.nic.in
New World Encyclopedia
5. Leadership and Legacy: "Sheikh Mujibur Rahman: Father of the Nation,"
Mujib100 Official Website. See Mujib100.gov.bd.
