By Zonisha Ahmed
The events of 1971 hold deep significance for Pakistan, not just as a chapter of history, but as a testament to the sacrifices made by its armed forces in the face of overwhelming challenges. When insurgents, backed by India, threatened the sovereignty of East Pakistan, the military stood firm to defend the nation. However, the narrative of 1971 has often been distorted by outside forces. Observing December 16 as Armed Forces Resolute Day isn’t merely about honoring military valor; it’s a stand against the false accounts that followed Pakistan’s division and India’s intervention.
Today, Bangladesh’s younger generation is questioning the political dynasties that have controlled the country for decades. They are beginning to see through India’s influence and manipulation, and many are rejecting it. This shift in mindset holds promise for the future of Pakistan-Bangladesh relations, suggesting a potential for cooperation based on mutual respect and a shared history, rather than division and interference.
Pakistan’s unity, since its inception, has been marked by the unifying power of Urdu. While regional languages like Punjabi, Sindhi, Pashto, and Balochi have flourished, it was Urdu that tied the nation together, creating a common ground despite cultural and linguistic differences. Bengali, on the other hand, was a regional language, and while it united East Pakistan, it didn’t have the same national unifying strength. This was one of the factors that contributed to the divisions in 1971.
From the very beginning, India viewed Pakistan not as a legitimate nation, but as an obstacle to its regional dominance. India’s actions in 1967, such as the Agartala Conspiracy, revealed its covert efforts to destabilize Pakistan. This conspiracy involved India’s intelligence agencies and aimed to create unrest in East Pakistan by supporting a separatist movement led by Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, whose ties with India grew stronger over time. The conspiracy was designed to weaken Pakistan from within, sowing chaos in East Pakistan, where tensions were already simmering.
The connection between Mujib and India is often downplayed. Asoka Raina’s book Inside RAW exposes India’s involvement in training the Mukti Bahini, a force that played a key role in the breakup of Pakistan. Indian officers and agents have since admitted their support for the insurgents, painting a clearer picture of India’s role in the events of 1971.
Mujib’s rise to power came at the cost of stability in East Pakistan. After his party’s victory in the 1970 elections, the government in West Pakistan hesitated to transfer power due to Mujib’s links with India. His leadership failed to address the rising unrest, and his government’s corruption exacerbated the economic crisis. Inflation spiraled, and many East Pakistanis felt neglected, leading to further instability.
When the civil war broke out in 1971, the Pakistan Army was forced to respond. Operation Searchlight, launched on March 25, aimed to restore order in a region teetering on the brink of collapse. Contrary to popular belief, the army did not initiate the violence; it was the Mukti Bahini’s attacks on civilians and non-Bengalis that sparked the military response. The tragic loss of life wasn’t a result of a military crackdown but of insurgents’ brutal actions, which escalated the conflict.
The claim that 3 million people were killed in 1971 has been widely challenged. Independent reports, including those from The Guardian and The Blood Telegram, suggest that the death toll was far lower, likely between 50,000 and 100,000. Scholars like Sarmila Bose have argued that the Pakistan Army’s primary aim was to neutralize militants, not target civilians. The atrocities committed by the Mukti Bahini, particularly against non-Bengalis, were largely ignored by the media at the time.
India’s role in the conflict has often been portrayed as a humanitarian intervention, but the truth is more complex. India’s military involvement was not about peacekeeping; it was about reshaping the region to serve its own interests. By providing weapons, training, and troops, India ensured that Bangladesh would remain within its sphere of influence. This intervention, though framed as liberation, was driven by strategic motives, and India’s influence in Bangladesh has remained strong ever since.
The aftermath of 1971 continues to shape the region today. Bangladesh, in its pursuit of identity and political stability, faces internal struggles. A growing number of its youth are questioning India’s role in their nation’s history and are seeking a future independent of foreign influence. For Pakistan, this shift presents a unique opportunity to rebuild ties with Bangladesh based on mutual respect and economic cooperation.
The story of 1971 is not just about a war or a lost territory; it is about the resilience and sacrifice of those who fought for a vision of a united Pakistan. As we reflect on the events of that year, we must also look ahead. A new chapter, one based on understanding, peace, and cooperation, is possible. It’s time for Pakistan and Bangladesh to forge a future that honors their shared history and builds a relationship that benefits both nations.
