Points to Remember:
- The liberation of Bangladesh.
- The role of the Indian Army.
- The Indo-Pakistani War of 1971.
- The creation of a new nation-state.
Introduction:
The question asks for the year in which the Indian army’s intervention led to the secession of East Pakistan and the formation of Bangladesh. This event is intrinsically linked to the Indo-Pakistani War of 1971, a significant conflict with lasting geopolitical consequences. The correct answer requires understanding the historical context of the creation of Bangladesh. The options provided are 1947 (the year of Indian independence), 1965 (another Indo-Pakistani war), 1999 (the Kargil War), and 1971. The question requires a factual approach.
Body:
The Indo-Pakistani War of 1971 and the Liberation of Bangladesh:
The creation of Bangladesh is directly tied to the 1971 war. Following the 1947 partition of India, East Pakistan (present-day Bangladesh) experienced significant political and economic marginalization under the West Pakistani government. This led to widespread discontent and ultimately, the rise of the Bengali nationalist movement led by Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. The Awami League, led by Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, won a landslide victory in the 1970 Pakistani general elections, but the West Pakistani establishment refused to transfer power. This refusal triggered a violent crackdown on Bengali civilians by the Pakistani military, leading to a mass exodus of refugees into India.
Indian Intervention:
The influx of millions of refugees into India created a humanitarian crisis and a significant security threat. India, already facing immense pressure, decided to intervene militarily in support of the Mukti Bahini (the Bengali freedom fighters). The Indian Army’s intervention, beginning in December 1971, was decisive in tilting the balance of power in favor of the Bengali nationalists.
The Outcome:
The war ended with the surrender of the Pakistani forces in East Pakistan on December 16, 1971. This surrender paved the way for the independence of Bangladesh as a sovereign nation-state. The Simla Agreement, signed between India and Pakistan in 1972, formalized the end of the war and the recognition of Bangladesh.
Therefore, the correct answer is (D) 1971.
Conclusion:
The Indian army’s intervention in 1971 was a pivotal moment in South Asian history, leading to the birth of Bangladesh. While the war had devastating consequences, it ultimately resulted in the creation of a new nation-state and the self-determination of the Bengali people. The event underscores the complexities of nation-building and the role of external forces in shaping geopolitical landscapes. The Simla Agreement, though a significant step towards peace, also highlights the ongoing need for peaceful resolution of conflicts in the region. Moving forward, fostering regional stability and cooperation through dialogue and diplomacy remains crucial for ensuring sustainable peace and development in South Asia. The event serves as a reminder of the importance of upholding human rights and addressing grievances peacefully to prevent future conflicts.
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