The 14-Day War That Led to Bangladesh’s Independence: India’s Pivotal Role in 1971

The Bangladesh Liberation War of 1971 remains one of the most significant events in South Asian history. The decisive phase of the conflict lasted just 14 days, yet it was the culmination of years of political, economic, and cultural tensions between East and West Pakistan. India played a crucial role, providing strategic, military, and humanitarian support, which ultimately enabled the people of East Pakistan to establish an independent nation—Bangladesh.

Roots of the Conflict
After the creation of Pakistan in 1947, the country was divided into West Pakistan and East Pakistan (now Bangladesh), separated by over 1,000 miles. The two regions differed significantly in language, culture, and identity. While Urdu was declared the official language, Bengali was the primary language of East Pakistan. Economic and political power was concentrated in the west, fueling growing resentment in the east.

Tensions escalated after the 1970 general elections, when Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’s Awami League won a majority but was denied political power. Mass protests erupted in East Pakistan, setting the stage for a national crisis.

Operation Searchlight and Humanitarian Crisis
On 25 March 1971, the Pakistani military launched Operation Searchlight, arresting Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and transferring him to West Pakistan. Widespread violence ensued in Dhaka and across East Bengal, resulting in thousands of deaths. The brutality forced millions of Bengalis to flee to India, creating a massive refugee crisis. By December 1971, nearly 10 million refugees were in India, accommodated across 825 camps in seven states, including 19 central camps, each capable of holding up to 50,000 people.

India Enters the War
India supported Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’s provisional government, established in Kolkata, and provided backing to the Mukti Bahini, the Bangladeshi liberation forces. On 3 December 1971, Pakistan launched air attacks on Indian airbases, prompting India to intervene militarily.

Operation Trident and Pakistan’s Surrender
Indian forces, in coordination with the Mukti Bahini, launched Operation Trident, striking Pakistani forces in retaliation. After 14 days of intense fighting, on 16 December 1971, Lieutenant General A.K. Niazi of Pakistan surrendered to Lieutenant General Jagjit Singh Arora of India, along with 93,000 Pakistani troops.

Bangladesh Emerges as an Independent Nation
Following the surrender, India declared a unilateral ceasefire, ending the war. Bangladesh emerged as a sovereign country, with Sheikh Mujibur Rahman as its first Prime Minister. The 1971 conflict highlighted India’s decisive role in supporting East Pakistan’s quest for freedom against West Pakistan.