What were the causes that led to the Bangladesh Liberation War of 1971. Explain as to why India got involved in the war to liberate Bangladesh?

Topic: Post-independence consolidation and reorganization within the country.

1. What were the causes that led to the Bangladesh Liberation War of 1971. Explain as to why India got involved in the war to liberate Bangladesh? (250 words)

Difficulty level: Easy

Reference: Chapter – 17 – India Since Independence by Bipan Chandra

Why the question:

The question is part of the static syllabus of General studies paper – 1 and mentioned as part of Mission-2022 Secure timetable.

Key Demand of the question:

To write about the causes for Bangladesh Liberation War of 1971 and to explain as to why India got involved in the war.

Directive word: 

Explain – Clarify the topic by giving a detailed account as to how and why it occurred, or what is the context. You must be defining key terms wherever appropriate and substantiate with relevant associated facts.

Structure of the answer:

Introduction: 

Begin by giving context of the conflict between east and west Pakistan.

Body:

In the first part, write about the reasons for the outbreak of the war. Ethnic clashes, Economic disparities, Political asymmetry, Language issue and the immediate cause etc.

Next, write about the reasons for India’s involved in the war – opportunity of the century, countering Pakistan, Bengali movement for autonomy and shared heritage, refugee crisis, security threats etc.

Conclusion:

Link the outcome to present day and Bangladesh celebrated 50 years of its Liberation movement.