Hidden facts behind fall of East Pakistan |
THE disintegration of Pakistan in December 1971 remains one of the most painful chapters in South Asian history. Beyond the often-repeated narratives, a careful examination reveals a complex interplay of internal weaknesses, external involvement, and a carefully orchestrated campaign to engineer the separation of East Pakistan. While issues of governance, political mistrust, and leadership failures played their part, there is ample evidence that foreign interference, particularly Indian rolewas decisive in shaping the tragic outcome.By early 1971, India had already established extensive support networks for the Mukti Bahini(MB) in East Pakistan. According to diplomatic sources, the political representatives of MB approached the Australian Deputy High Commission in India to solicit international backing for an independent Bangladesh. In the meeting, the Australians were informed that MB possessed a sizeable force equipped and financed by India.
The MB representatives claimed that their ranks included 28,000 troops drawn from East Bengal Regiments, East Pakistan Rifles, police, Ansars, and veterans. Additionally, they disclosed that 40,000 personnel were undergoing conventional military training in India, while 35,000 guerrilla fighters were already active inside East Pakistan. Eventually, MB intended to establish up to 90 base camps, all under Indian supervision.........