It is indeed a point of discussion and sadness for many that
during the formal surrender of the Pakistani military on 16 December 1971, the
Bangladeshi military and freedom fighters were not officially present. This
surrender, signed at the Racecourse Ground in Dhaka, marked the end of the
Liberation War, with Lt. Gen. A. A. K. Niazi of Pakistan surrendering to Lt.
Gen. Jagjit Singh Aurora of the Indian Army.
Why Were Bangladeshi Forces Absent?
Practical Reasons:
By 16 December, Dhaka was heavily secured by the Indian Armed
Forces, and the city’s liberation was spearheaded by them. The Mukti Bahini
(freedom fighters) and the nascent Bangladeshi military were actively
liberating other regions and regrouping after months of guerrilla warfare.
The formal surrender was organized quickly, with India taking the
lead to expedite the process and prevent further loss of life.
Political and Strategic Considerations:
India played a major role in the victory, providing resources,
training, and military might. Ensuring an Indian presence at the surrender
highlighted India's leadership in the war.
Bangladesh’s political leadership, including Sheikh Mujibur
Rahman, was still imprisoned in West Pakistan at the time.
Impact and Sentiments
Feelings of Exclusion:
Many Bangladeshis feel that the absence of their forces at such a
historic moment diminishes their direct recognition in the final act of
victory.
Recognition of Sacrifices:
Despite this, the undeniable bravery and sacrifices of the Mukti
Bahini and the people of Bangladesh remain central to the independence
narrative.
Post-War Symbolism
After independence, Bangladesh worked to establish its national
identity and recognize its freedom fighters. The Mukti Bahini and Bangladeshi
military were later honored, and their contributions are celebrated as the
heart of the Liberation War.
This absence does not overshadow the reality that the victory
was primarily for and by the people of Bangladesh, who endured immense
suffering and fought valiantly for their freedom.
Bangladesh Independence Day
(16 December 1971): A Brief Overview
The independence of Bangladesh on 16 December 1971 was the
culmination of decades of political, cultural, and economic discrimination by
West Pakistan, culminating in a brutal war of liberation. Below is a concise
breakdown, from the partition of India in 1947 to the events of 1971,
considering global and regional factors:
Partition of India and Creation of Pakistan (1947)
India was divided into India and Pakistan based on religion.
Pakistan had two wings:
West Pakistan (modern-day Pakistan)
East Pakistan (modern-day Bangladesh), separated by 1,600 km of
Indian territory.
East Pakistan, despite having a larger population, was
economically and politically marginalized. This planted the seeds of conflict.
Language and Political Movements (1948–1970)
Language Movement (1948–1952):
West Pakistan imposed Urdu as the state language, sparking
protests in East Pakistan, where the majority spoke Bengali.
The death of protesters on 21 February 1952 galvanized the Bengali
identity.
Economic Disparities:
East Pakistan contributed significantly to Pakistan’s economy
(jute exports) but received minimal investment.
Political Marginalization:
The Awami League, led by Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, demanded autonomy
through the Six-Point Program (1966).
Pakistan’s Politics and the 1970 Election
In Pakistan’s first general election, the Awami League won a
landslide victory, securing 167 of 169 seats in East Pakistan, giving it a
majority in the national assembly.
However, General Yahya Khan and Zulfikar Ali Bhutto of West
Pakistan refused to transfer power to Sheikh Mujib, fueling tensions.
The Liberation War (1971)
Operation Searchlight (25 March 1971):
The Pakistani military launched a brutal crackdown on Dhaka,
targeting students, intellectuals, and civilians.
Sheikh Mujibur Rahman declared independence on 26 March 1971,
sparking the Bangladesh Liberation War.
Atrocities and Human Cost:
Between 300,000 to 3 million people were killed.
200,000 to 400,000 women were subjected to sexual violence.
Over 10 million refugees fled to India.
World Politics and Supporting Countries
India’s Role:
India, led by Indira Gandhi, provided military and logistical
support to the Mukti Bahini (freedom fighters) and sheltered millions of
refugees.
On 3 December 1971, India officially entered the war after
Pakistan attacked Indian airbases, leading to a full-scale conflict.
Soviet Union:
The USSR supported India diplomatically and militarily, countering
Pakistan’s allies.
United States and China:
The US, under President Nixon, supported Pakistan due to Cold War
alliances, ignoring reports of genocide.
China backed Pakistan diplomatically but did not intervene
militarily.
Middle East:
Countries like Saudi Arabia and Jordan supported Pakistan,
emphasizing Islamic solidarity.
India’s Gains and Politics
Strategic Victory: The creation of Bangladesh significantly
weakened Pakistan, India’s primary rival.
Indira Gandhi’s Leadership: The war bolstered Indira Gandhi’s
domestic and international image as a decisive leader.
Economic Burden: While India gained strategic benefits, hosting
millions of refugees strained its economy.
Religious Dynamics: Hindus and Muslims
Bangladesh:
Hindus were disproportionately targeted during the genocide,
leading many to flee to India.
Post-independence, Bangladesh adopted a secular constitution,
though Hindu-Muslim tensions persisted.
India:
The influx of Bengali Muslim and Hindu refugees created political
and communal challenges, especially in West Bengal and Northeast India.
Conclusion (Victory Day, 16 December 1971)
On 16 December 1971, Pakistani forces in East Pakistan surrendered
to the joint Indian and Mukti Bahini forces, marking the birth of Bangladesh.
This victory reshaped South Asia’s geopolitics, creating a new
nation but leaving deep scars from the war’s atrocities and economic
devastation.
How Independence Day is Celebrated in Bangladesh (16 December)
16 December, celebrated as Victory Day (বিজয় দিবস) in Bangladesh, is a day of national pride and
remembrance, marking the end of the Liberation War in 1971. It is observed with
patriotism, cultural festivities, and solemn tributes across the country. The
following activities highlight how the day is commemorated:
1. National Symbols and Decorations
Hoisting the National Flag:
The day begins with the raising of the Bangladeshi flag at sunrise
at government buildings, institutions, and private homes.
Decorations:
Streets, buildings, and landmarks are decorated with flags,
banners, and lights.
Tributes at Monuments:
Flowers and wreaths are laid at iconic locations like the National
Martyrs' Memorial (স্মৃতিসৌধ) and the Shaheed Minar to honor those who
sacrificed their lives.
2. Prayers at Mosques and Religious Institutions
Special Prayers (দোয়া):
Across the country, special prayers are held at mosques, seeking
peace for the souls of the martyrs and blessings for the nation’s progress.
Other religious communities also organize services in temples,
churches, and pagodas, praying for unity and harmony.
3. Official Ceremonies and Tributes
Tributes by Leaders:
The President, Prime Minister, and other officials lay wreaths at
the National Martyrs' Memorial early in the morning.
Military Parade:
A grand parade, showcasing the Bangladesh Armed Forces, is held in
Dhaka, attended by the President, Prime Minister, and foreign dignitaries.
Moments of Silence:
Observed nationwide to remember the victims of the war and the
sacrifices of the freedom fighters.
4. Cultural Programs and Media Tributes
Patriotic Songs and Performances:
Programs in schools, colleges, and cultural institutions feature
patriotic songs, dances, and dramas about the Liberation War.
Documentaries and Films:
TV channels and radio stations broadcast special programs,
including documentaries, interviews with freedom fighters, and war-themed
movies.
5. Involvement of Citizens
Educational Activities:
Schools and colleges organize debates, exhibitions, and essay
competitions to teach students about the history of the Liberation War.
Visits to Historical Sites:
Families visit landmarks like the Savar Memorial or watch the
military parade in Dhaka.
6. Recognition of Freedom Fighters
Honoring Veterans:
Special events are held to honor the freedom fighters (মুক্তিযোদ্ধা) with speeches, awards, and tributes.
7. Sporting and Community Events
Sports Matches:
Cricket, football, and other sporting events are organized to
celebrate the day.
Local Celebrations:
Communities host cultural programs, street fairs, and rallies.
8. Global Observances
Bangladeshi Diaspora:
Bangladeshis abroad celebrate with cultural events, flag hoisting,
and community prayers, reaffirming their connection to their homeland.
Victory Day is a unifying occasion, blending solemnity with
celebration, and reminding citizens of the sacrifices that led to Bangladesh’s
independence. The day’s events emphasize gratitude, reflection, and the
nation’s ongoing journey toward progress and unity.