Assignment
Political Economy (DS-401)
Submitted By
Noor - E - Jannat
Batch-13, Roll: 16
Department of Development Studies
University of Dhaka
Submitted To
Sonam Saha
Assistant Professor
Department of Development Studies
University of Dhaka
Enduring Legacy of India in Bangladesh Liberation War
Introduction:
The 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War, which established Bangladesh as an independent nation
and had a chaotic beginning, will always be remembered as an important turning point in South
Asian history. This prolonged battle was the result of decades of political, economic, and
cultural differences, certifying India's decisive and crucial role. In a moment when the futures of
millions of people were at risk, India took a stand in favor of justice, autonomy, and human
rights.
The Bangladesh Liberation War was the explosive shift of complicated historical components
that had been growing for years, not just the conflict of forces or the end of an event. It was a
battle against a backdrop of colonialism's legacy, economic inequality, linguistic and cultural
barriers, and political injustices. It was a battle to prove one's right to self-determination and
break free from oppressive restrictions.
We go on a journey through the complicated story of the Bangladesh Liberation War in this
extensive assessment, with a particular focus on India's role as a catalyst for change. We are
going to look at the causes of the crisis, the turning points that shaped the fight, and the various
facets of India's engagement, ranging from its military and diplomatic endeavors to its
humanitarian response. We will take into account the leadership of the Indian Prime Minister at
the time, Indira Gandhi, whose constancy and keen strategic vision were essential in directing
the unfolding series of events.
The refugee emergency that occurred during the violence in the area cannot be ignored. India
had a significant humanitarian burden as a result, which it handled with resilience and
compassion. We will also explore India's diplomatic endeavors to get global acknowledgment
for the newly established Bangladesh, clarifying the country's influence in reshaping the
geopolitical landscape of South Asia.
The Soviet Union and India's cooperation during this pivotal time highlights the complexity of
world politics during the Cold War and the far-reaching effects that strategic alliances may have.
Our goal in sharing these insights is to provide readers with an in-depth understanding of India's
multifaceted contribution to the Bangladesh Liberation War.
This chapter of history is not simply about the past, as we will see through its complex web. It
also holds important lessons about the importance of diplomacy, the role that states play in
defending human rights, and the effects that regional wars have on the global scene. India's
involvement in this conflict is evidence of its dedication to its ideals, its search for justice, and
its readiness to support people pursuing independence and self-determination. This narrative
shows the challenges faced and the humanitarian acts performed, as well as the strength of
persuasion and determination. Ultimately, it showcases the victory of the human spirit over
unfairness and oppression.
A Historical Backdrop:
Understanding India's role in the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War requires an in-depth analysis
of the entrenched political, historical, and sociocultural elements that precipitated the conflict.
These origins, along with a chaotic past, eventually prepared the way for one of the most
important occasions in the history of the subcontinent.
● Partition and Creation of Pakistan: As a result of British India's 1947 partition, which
resulted in the creation of Pakistan, the Bangladesh issue originated. Two geographically
and culturally diverse regions—West Pakistan, or modern-day Pakistan, and East
Pakistan, or modern-day Bangladesh—separated by more than a thousand miles of
Indian land were combined to form this new state. The earliest fault lines were caused
by historical differences in the distribution of power and rates of economic development
between these two wings.
● Cultural and Linguistic Differences: East Pakistan's population, who were primarily
Bengali, was different from those in the West, where Urdu was pushed as the official
language, in terms of identity, language, and culture. Bengali students in Dhaka were
tragically assassinated during a language movement in February 1952 as a result of the
imposition of Urdu as the only official language of the country, which increased tensions
and caused protests.
● Economic Disparities: Despite having a larger population, East Pakistan had a worse
economic situation. Through its exports, especially jute, the region made a substantial
economic contribution to the country, but it gained little in the way of economic growth.
This wealth gap fueled sentiments of injustice and bitterness.
● Political Marginalization: In Pakistan, the East was continuously left out of
representation and decision-making processes, with the majority of political power
located in West Pakistan. The East was not represented in the National Assembly while
having a majority, which heightened the feeling of unfairness.
● 1970 General Elections: The 1970 general elections marked the breaking point. In the
National Assembly, the Awami League, led by Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, secured 167 of
the 169 seats belonging to East Pakistan. The establishment in West Pakistan was
unwilling to hand over power despite the electoral landslide that should have resulted in
the establishment of a government with its core constituency in East Pakistan.
● Military Crackdown: After the Pakistani military brutally cracked down on the Bengali
population in East Pakistan in March 1971 due to the refusal to hand over power, there
were protests. The military's atrocities, which included mass executions and severe
violations of human rights, inspired the Bengalis and sparked a full-scale independence
war.
The historical elements combined with the differences in culture and economic status between
East and West Pakistan stoked the Bengali people's long-standing desire for independence. The
Bangladesh Liberation War began in March 1971 when the long-simmering crisis finally burst
into an actual conflict of independence.
India's unwavering commitment to justice, autonomy, and human rights had a significant impact
on its involvement in this conflict. The country's engagement in the liberation struggle was
made possible by its recognition of the suffering endured by the Bengali people and their right
to determine their future. The crisis's historical roots would push India into a vital and complex
role that would ultimately determine how this major conflict played out.
Indian Role: A Vital Chapter in South Asian History
India's multifaceted engagement in the Bangladesh Liberation War changed as the situation
worsened. India's contribution was first mainly moral and diplomatic. The Indian government,
headed by Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, expressed its support for the Bengali nationalists and
strongly criticized Pakistan's military action in East Pakistan. India used its international
standing to draw attention to the horrific events occurring in East Pakistan and to rally
compassion for the Bengali cause.
With the increasing tensions in East Pakistan, India's involvement became increasingly explicit
and proactive. It gave shelter and assistance to millions of Bengali refugees who fled across the
border into India, putting a strain on the country's already limited resources. This humanitarian
gesture demonstrated India's dedication to the values of justice and human rights and brought
attention to the pressing need for outside action.
In South Asia's history, the Bangladesh Liberation War of 1971 was a turning point. The fight
for justice and self-determination in East Pakistan (now Bangladesh) gave rise to this conflict,
in which India played a significant role. India had a variety of roles in this battle and
significantly influenced how it turned out. To comprehend the breadth and significance of
India's involvement, it is necessary to look into its different dimensions:
1. Moral and Diplomatic Support:
● Recognition of the issue: India was fast to acknowledge the East Pakistani
problem and the misery of the Bengali people, who suffered from
institutionalized discrimination and violations of their human rights. Under
Prime Minister Indira Gandhi's direction, the Indian government offered the
independence movement in Bengali language moral support.
● Diplomatic Initiatives: India made a concerted effort to bring attention to the
conditions occurring in East Pakistan on a global scale through diplomatic
means. Indira Gandhi appealed to the world community and asked for help in
advancing Bangladesh's probable cause. These diplomatic efforts were essential
in gaining support for the Bangladeshi people on a global scale.
2. Humanitarian Response:
● Refugee Crisis: The humanitarian aspect of the Bangladesh Liberation War
presented India with a major obstacle. The resources and infrastructure of India
were severely impacted by the millions of Bengali refugees who arrived.
Nonetheless, the Indian people and government reacted with amazing kindness
and unity.
To guarantee the welfare of the refugees, India set up camps and gave them food,
shelter, and medical attention. Despite major logistical and financial obstacles,
India's vast humanitarian effort demonstrated its commitment to upholding
justice and human rights principles. The terrible conditions facing the refugees
acted as a sharp reminder of how urgent it was to act and how international
intervention was required to put an end to the crisis.
3. Military Intervention:
● Support for Mukti Bahini: India became more deeply involved in the war when it
provided military assistance to the Mukti Bahini (freedom fighters) of
Bangladesh. The Mukti Bahini were given weapons, training, and strategic
direction by the Indian Armed Forces, which was essential in changing the
dynamics of the conflict.
● War with Pakistan: During the period of December 3, 1971 to December 16,
1971, India and Pakistan were directly involved in war with each other over
Pakistan's military actions in East Pakistan. Significant military victories for
India in the eastern theatre resulted in Pakistani forces' eventual surrender and
the establishment of Bangladesh.
4. Leadership of Indira Gandhi:
● Diplomatic Skill: Throughout the chaotic time, Prime Minister Indira Gandhi
demonstrated strong leadership and wise strategic planning. The way things
turned out was mostly due to Indira Gandhi's dedication to the movement of the
Bengali nationalists and her skill at negotiating the region's complicated
geopolitics. In order to secure support for the Bengali cause, her diplomatic
efforts to form alliances and win support from other countries were essential. She
was crucial in convincing the Soviet Union to join the fight as an ally, which
profoundly altered the balance of power in the area.
● Military Leadership: Military Leadership: In her capacity as prime minister, she
managed the military operation against Pakistan and successfully achieved
Bangladesh's independence.
5. International Recognition of Bangladesh:
● Bangladesh became an independent nation on December 16, 1971, after Bengali
nationalists won and Pakistani forces were forced to surrender in Dhaka. One of
the first nations to formally recognize Bangladesh was India. This prompt
acceptance not only strengthened India's backing for the recently formed country
but also significantly affected global perceptions.
Inspiring other countries to do the same, India's recognition of Bangladesh
played a crucial role in advancing Bangladesh's recognition as an independent
nation on a global scale. The two countries' relationship was further reinforced
by this diplomatic recognition, which represented the highest peak of India's
efforts and dedication to advancing the aspirations of the Bengali people for
independence.
USSR's Innovation: India Collaborates
India's collaboration with the Soviet Union during the Bangladesh Liberation War of 1971 was a
notable part. This partnership showcased the sophisticated aspects of world politics during the
Cold War period and had significant consequences for the conflict's outcome.
● Cold War Dynamics: The partnership took place during the severe competition
between the two dominant global powers at that time, namely the United States and the
Soviet Union. This competition included multiple regions worldwide, including South
Asia. The United States, in cooperation with Pakistan, was aware of India's emerging
power and aimed to uphold a strategic position in the region.
● Soviet Support: On the other side of the spectrum, the Soviet Union backed India's
position on the Bangladesh conflict. They recognized a chance to enhance their
connections with India, a prominent nation that is not allied with any major power, and
to offset the influence of the United States in the region. The Soviet Union provided
India with diplomatic support, military assistance, and economic aid.
● Diplomatic Cover: The Soviet Union exploited its diplomatic influence at the United
Nations to support India's position on the Bangladesh matter. It facilitated the
acquisition of global support for the struggle of Bangladesh and, in collaboration with
India, actively participated in diplomatic efforts to ensure acceptance of the newly
formed nation.
● Military Assistance: India received substantial military aid from the Soviet Union
during the battle. This encompassed the provision of military equipment, weapons, and
other essential supplies that played a vital role in India's military operations to assist the
Bangladeshi Mukti Bahini (freedom fighters). The military support provided by the
Soviet Union played a crucial role in aiding India and the Mukti Bahini in attaining their
goals.
● Economic Aid: In order to ease India's financial load from the war struggle and the
refugee issue, the Soviet Union also offered economic support to that country. The
ability of India to continue assisting Bangladesh was greatly aided by this aid.
● Political Support: India's initiatives gained a major boost from the Soviet Union's
political assistance and diplomatic efforts, in addition to its military and economic
dimensions. Gaining the confidence of the international community and making
diplomatic progress were made possible in large part by this support.
● Long-term Implications: There were long-lasting effects from India and the Soviet
Union's cooperation during the Bangladesh Liberation War. As a result, the two
countries' strategic alliance was reinforced, and India gained recognition as a receiver of
Soviet assistance during the Cold War. This alliance affected the balance of power not
just in South Asia but around the world.
Essentially, the partnership between India and the Soviet Union during the Bangladesh
Liberation War was a novel element of India's diverse involvement in the battle. It
demonstrated the mechanisms of Cold War politics and the tactical value of forging stable
coalitions. This collaboration not only bolstered India's standing in the area but also
underscored the influence of diplomatic and military alliances in affecting the resolution of
regional conflicts. This serves as a reminder of how geopolitical interests can shape
international responses to crises and emphasizes the complex character of global politics during
a transformative era in history.
Conclusion:
Above all, India's engagement in the Liberation War of Bangladesh highlights the importance of
ethics in international relations. The military intervention, humanitarian response to the refugee
crisis, visionary leadership of Indira Gandhi, unwavering backing for the Bangladeshi cause,
and diplomatic attempts all significantly influenced the final result of the war. India's moral
duty compelled it to resist oppression and advocate for justice. India's adherence to these ideals
not only found a strong connection within the nation but also earned widespread international
backing, ultimately resulting in the establishment of Bangladesh.
India's participation in this battle illustrates the idea of regional collaboration in the pursuit of a
righteous purpose. The Bangladesh Liberation War stands as a devastating testament to the
efficiency of diplomacy, the resilience of humanitarian efforts, and the importance of
international collaboration during periods of turmoil.
Ultimately, India's involvement in the Bangladesh Liberation War is a timeless story of bravery,
compassion, and unwavering dedication to justice, not merely a historical chapter. It is a symbol
of the suffering obligation of principle and the capacity of nations to bring about constructive
change in times of difficulty, and it acts as a beacon for other countries facing similar
challenges.
References:
● Drong, A. (2016). India’s Role in the Emergence of Bangladesh as an independent state.
Вестник Российского Университета Дружбы Народов, 16(4), 736–744.
https://doi.org/10.22363/2313-0660-2016-16-4-736-744
● Haider, Z. (2009). A revisit to the Indian role in the Bangladesh Liberation War. Journal
of Asian and African Studies. https://doi.org/10.1177/0021909609340062
● Salam Azad (2008). Role of Indian People in Liberation War of Bangladesh.
asthabharati.org, 10(2). http://www.asthabharati.org/Dia_Oct%2008/sal.htm
● Bhakta, C. (2019). India’s Role in the Freedom of Bangladesh. JOURNAL OF
CRITICAL REVIEWS, 06(03,2019), ISSN-2394-5125.
https://www.jcreview.com/admin/Uploads/Files/61a47303b59c70.78078282.pdf
● MURSHID, N. (2011). India’s Role in Bangladesh’s War of Independence:
Humanitarianism or Self-interest? Economic and Political Weekly, 46(52), 53–60.
http://www.jstor.org/stable/41719989
