Political Background of Bangladesh from 1947 to 1971

The political history of Bangladesh from 1947 to 1971 is a tale of struggle, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of self-determination. During this crucial period, the region transitioned from being a part of British India to becoming East Pakistan and, ultimately, emerging as an independent nation in 1971. The political dynamics of this era were shaped by socio-economic inequalities, cultural disparities, and a strong desire for autonomy among the Bengali people. This article delves into the significant events and political movements that defined this transformative period in Bangladesh's history.

Partition of British India and the Creation of Pakistan (1947)

The political journey of Bangladesh began with the Partition of British India in August 1947. The Indian subcontinent was divided into two independent nations: India and Pakistan. Pakistan was established as a separate state for Muslims, comprising two geographically and culturally distinct regions: West Pakistan (present-day Pakistan) and East Pakistan (now Bangladesh). East Pakistan, then known as East Bengal, became part of Pakistan due to its Muslim-majority population.

Despite having a larger population, East Pakistan was politically and economically marginalized by the West Pakistan-dominated government. The seeds of discontent were sown as early as the Partition, with East Pakistanis feeling neglected and underrepresented in the new nation.

The Language Movement (1948–1952)

One of the earliest and most significant political movements in East Pakistan was the Language Movement. The central government of Pakistan, based in West Pakistan, declared Urdu the sole national language in 1948, ignoring the fact that Bengali was spoken by the majority of Pakistan's population, primarily in East Pakistan.

This decision sparked widespread protests in East Pakistan, leading to the Language Movement. Students and activists played a pivotal role, demanding recognition of Bengali as one of the state languages. The movement reached its peak on February 21, 1952, when police opened fire on demonstrators in Dhaka, killing several students. This tragic event became a symbol of resistance and is commemorated annually as International Mother Language Day.

The Language Movement not only secured the recognition of Bengali as one of Pakistan's state languages in 1956 but also laid the foundation for the growing political awareness and aspirations of East Pakistanis.

Economic Disparities and Political Marginalization

Throughout the 1950s and 1960s, East Pakistan faced significant economic and political discrimination. Despite contributing the majority of Pakistan's export earnings through jute and other agricultural products, East Pakistan received minimal investment and development funds. The economic policies of the central government favored West Pakistan, leading to a growing sense of alienation among Bengalis.

Politically, East Pakistan was underrepresented in decision-making processes. The central government and military were dominated by West Pakistanis, and the voice of East Pakistanis was often ignored. This unequal treatment fueled demands for greater autonomy and self-governance.

Formation of the Awami League and the Six-Point Program

In response to the political and economic grievances, the Awami Muslim League (later renamed the Awami League) emerged as a prominent political party in East Pakistan. Under the leadership of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the party became the main advocate for the rights of Bengalis.

In 1966, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman presented the Six-Point Program, which outlined a framework for greater autonomy for East Pakistan. The program demanded control over trade, taxation, and currency, as well as the establishment of a federal parliamentary system. The Six-Point Program resonated deeply with the people of East Pakistan, as it addressed their long-standing grievances.

The central government in West Pakistan, however, viewed the Six-Point Program as a threat to national unity. Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and other Awami League leaders were frequently arrested, but the movement for autonomy continued to gain momentum.

The 1970 General Election

The general election of 1970 was a turning point in the political history of Pakistan. For the first time, the election was held under a universal adult franchise, allowing East Pakistan's numerical majority to play a decisive role. The Awami League, led by Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, won a landslide victory, securing 167 out of 169 seats allocated to East Pakistan in the National Assembly. This gave the party an absolute majority in the 313-seat assembly, enabling it to form the government.

However, the central government and political leaders in West Pakistan were unwilling to accept the Awami League's mandate. Negotiations between the two regions failed, and tensions escalated. The refusal to transfer power to the Awami League further deepened the divide between East and West Pakistan.

The Onset of the Liberation Movement

The political stalemate following the 1970 election led to widespread unrest in East Pakistan. On March 7, 1971, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman delivered a historic speech in Dhaka, calling for non-cooperation and urging the people of East Pakistan to prepare for a struggle for independence. His speech became a rallying cry for the Bengali nationalist movement.

The situation deteriorated further when the Pakistan Army launched "Operation Searchlight" on March 25, 1971, a military crackdown aimed at suppressing the Bengali independence movement. The operation targeted students, political activists, and civilians, resulting in widespread atrocities and loss of life.

The brutality of the military crackdown united Bengalis in their demand for independence. On March 26, 1971, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman declared the independence of Bangladesh, marking the beginning of the Bangladesh Liberation War.

The Bangladesh Liberation War (1971)

The Liberation War of 1971 was a nine-month-long struggle for independence. The Mukti Bahini (Freedom Fighters), comprising Bengali military personnel and civilians, waged a guerrilla war against the Pakistan Army. The war was marked by immense suffering, with millions of refugees fleeing to neighboring India and widespread human rights violations, including genocide and atrocities committed by the Pakistan Army.

India played a crucial role in the conflict, providing support to the Mukti Bahini and eventually intervening militarily in December 1971. The Indo-Pakistani War of 1971 culminated in the surrender of the Pakistan Army in Dhaka on December 16, 1971. This marked the victory of the Bengali nationalist movement and the birth of an independent Bangladesh.

Legacy of the 1947–1971 Period

The political journey of Bangladesh from 1947 to 1971 is a testament to the resilience and determination of its people. The period was characterized by a struggle against political and economic injustice, cultural suppression, and military aggression. The emergence of Bangladesh as an independent nation in 1971 was the culmination of decades of political movements and sacrifices.

The events of this period continue to shape the political identity and aspirations of Bangladesh. The Language Movement, the Six-Point Program, and the Liberation War are celebrated as milestones in the country's history, reminding future generations of the importance of unity, justice, and the fight for self-determination.

Conclusion

The political background of Bangladesh from 1947 to 1971 is a story of transformation, from being part of a larger state to asserting its identity as an independent nation. This era highlights the challenges of managing cultural, economic, and political diversity in a federal structure and underscores the consequences of ignoring the legitimate demands of a population.

Today, Bangladesh stands as a proud nation, its history serving as a source of inspiration and strength for its people. The lessons of this period remain relevant, emphasizing the value of equity, inclusivity, and the right to self-determination in nation-building efforts...

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