Dr Matiur Rahman

The declaration of independence by Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman on March 26, 1971, marked a watershed moment in the history of Bangladesh—a culmination of decades of struggle, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment to the ideals of democracy, justice, and self-determination. To understand why Bangabandhu took the momentous decision to declare independence, one must delve into the socio-political landscape of East Pakistan (now Bangladesh) during that time and the series of events that led to this historic proclamation.

Bangladesh, then known as East Pakistan, had long been marginalized within the political framework of Pakistan following the partition of British India in 1947. Despite constituting a majority of the population, the people of East Pakistan found themselves subjected to systemic discrimination, economic exploitation, and political disenfranchisement by the ruling elite based in West Pakistan. The demands for greater autonomy and fair representation grew louder over the years, as successive governments in Karachi failed to address the grievances of the Bengali-speaking population.

The turning point came with the historic general elections held in Pakistan in December 1970, which saw the Awami League, led by Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, securing a landslide victory in East Pakistan. The Awami League's platform centred on the six-point demand, advocating for greater autonomy for East Pakistan to address the socio-economic disparities and political injustices faced by its people. The overwhelming mandate received by the Awami League was a clear expression of the aspirations of the Bengali population for self-governance and dignity.

However, the ruling authorities in West Pakistan, unwilling to cede power to the democratically elected representatives from East Pakistan, resorted to delaying tactics and outright denial of the people's democratic rights. As negotiations between the political leadership of East and West Pakistan faltered, tensions escalated, and the simmering discontent erupted into widespread protests, strikes, and civil unrest across East Pakistan. The refusal of the central government to acknowledge the legitimate demands of the Bengali population further exacerbated the crisis, pushing the region to the brink of a full-scale confrontation.

Amidst escalating tensions and mounting pressure from the people of East Pakistan, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman delivered a historic speech on March 7, 1971, at the Racecourse Ground (now Suhrawardy Udyan) in Dhaka. In his impassioned address, Bangabandhu laid out the grievances of the Bengali population, reiterated the demand for autonomy, and called for non-cooperation with the central government until their demands were met. The speech, now famously known as the "7th March Speech," galvanized the masses and served as a rallying cry for the movement toward self-determination.

Faced with continued repression and violence orchestrated by the authorities in West Pakistan, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman made the historic decision to declare independence for Bangladesh on March 26, 1971. The declaration was signed by Bangabandhu before his arrest and taken away to West Pakistan. The declaration was the formal commencement of the liberation war against the oppressive regime in West Pakistan. It was a courageous act of defiance against tyranny and injustice, born out of a deep commitment to the principles of democracy, human rights, and national sovereignty.

The Declaration of Independence set in motion a series of events that would shape the destiny of Bangladesh for generations to come. What followed was nine months of heroic struggle, sacrifice, and resilience by the people of Bangladesh, as they fought valiantly against the well-equipped Pakistani military machine to secure their freedom and dignity. The War of Liberation, characterized by acts of courage, solidarity, and unity, united people from all walks of life under the banner of independence, transcending barriers of class, religion, and ethnicity.

Throughout the War of Liberation, Bangladesh received unwavering support and solidarity from the international community, as nations across the globe rallied behind the cause of freedom and self-determination. The atrocities committed by the Pakistani military junta, including the genocide of innocent civilians, drew condemnation from world leaders and galvanized efforts to end the bloodshed and restore peace to the region. The recognition of Bangladesh as an independent and sovereign nation by a growing number of countries further bolstered the morale of the freedom fighters and lent legitimacy to their struggle.

On December 16, 1971, Bangladesh achieved a historic victory with the surrender of the Pakistani military forces, culminating in the birth of a new nation. The sacrifices made by countless individuals during the nine months of struggle finally bore fruit, as Bangladesh emerged as an independent, sovereign state, free from the shackles of oppression and tyranny. The declaration of independence by Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman paved the way for a new era of hope, progress, and prosperity for the people of Bangladesh.

The declaration of independence by Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman was not merely a symbolic gesture; it was a bold assertion of the inherent rights of the Bengali people to determine their destiny and shape the future of their nation. It was a testament to the indomitable spirit of a people united in their quest for freedom, justice, and dignity.

As Bangladesh celebrates its independence, it must never forget the sacrifices made by the countless heroes and heroines who laid down their lives for the cause of liberation. The legacy of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and the spirit of the Liberation War continue to inspire and guide the nation toward a brighter and more prosperous future, grounded in the principles of democracy, equality, and social justice.

The writer is a researcher and development worker.