Bangladesh Then and Now – A Comparative Study of Political Crises of 1971 and 2024

It was the best of times, it was the worst of times, it was an era of liberation, it was an era of suppression, it was the age of resilience, it was the age of turmoil, it was the epoch of revolution, it was the epoch of stagnation, it was the moment of unity, it was the moment of division, it was the season of hope, it was the season of despair, it was the dawn of a new nation, it was the twilight of an old regime – in short, the struggles of Bangladesh in 1971 and 2024 were so parallel, yet so distinct, that their tales demand a closer look. In 1971, The country revolted against colonial rule, demanding independence and self-governance. In 2024, it stood on the brink once more, with students and citizens rallying against a different form of authoritarian grip, calling for justice and democratic governance. This article compares and contrasts Bangladesh's historical and current political crises, looking at how these passionate screams and cries of the present are echoes of the past.

The Liberation War of 1971: A Fight for Independence

The year 1971 marked a pivotal moment in South Asian history as Bangladesh fought to break free from West Pakistan. The struggle was fueled by linguistic, cultural, and economic disparities. The seeds of rebellion were sown when the Bengali population felt increasingly marginalized and discriminated against by the central government. The tipping point came on March 25, 1971, when the Pakistani military launched Operation Searchlight, a brutal crackdown on the Bengali nationalist movement.

The liberation war that followed was characterized by immense human suffering, with an estimation of casualties ranging from thousands to millions. The Mukti Bahini, a Bengali resistance movement, played a crucial role in countering the Pakistani military, with the help of Indian aid. On December 16, 1971, after a nine-month-long struggle, Bangladesh emerged victorious with the support of India, leading to the creation of an independent nation.

 
The Student Protests of 2024: A Struggle for Justice

Fast forward to 2024, Bangladesh finds itself embroiled in another significant political crisis. This time, the battle is not against a foreign oppressor but against perceived internal tyranny. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's 15-year rule, initially marked by economic progress and stability, began to draw criticism for increasing authoritarianism, suppression of dissent, and nepotism.

The immediate cause of the unrest was the reinstatement of a controversial quota system for government jobs, favoring descendants of 1971 war veterans. This policy, seen as discriminatory by many, sparked mass protests led by students demanding a merit-based system. The demonstrations began peacefully but escalated into violent clashes after government forces intervened.

On August 5, 2024, the situation reached a breaking point as thousands of protesters stormed the prime minister's residence. The violence resulted in nearly 300 deaths, including both protesters and police officers. Amidst the chaos, Sheikh Hasina fled the country, and an interim government led by General Waker-uz-Zaman took over, promising to restore order and justice.

 

Quota System: A Root Cause in 1971 and 2024

The quota system has been a recurring source of contention in Bangladesh's political history, with roots stretching back to the 1971 Liberation War and resurfacing prominently in 2024.

1971 Context:

During the period leading up to the 1971 Liberation War, the quota system in Pakistan’s state institutions, including the military, heavily favored Punjabis and other non-Bengali ethnic groups. Bengalis, despite being the largest ethnic group in East Pakistan (now Bangladesh), faced systemic discrimination and were allocated fewer positions in the army and civil services. This disparity influenced the feelings of discontentment and the desire for autonomy and independence. In addition, the unfair representation and unequal opportunities aggravated their grievances and thus, opened the way for the struggle for independence.

2024 Context:

Fast forward to 2024, the quota system re-emerged as a flashpoint for protests. The contentious policy reserved 30% of government jobs for descendants of veterans from the 1971 war, a measure intended to honor those who contributed to the independence struggle. However, this quota was perceived as discriminatory by the younger generation and those outside the veteran community. Protesters highlighted the fact that the system was a real contribution to nepotism and that meritocracy was completely undermined. This, in turn, made many people feel that they were unfairly restricted from career advancement opportunities in favor of some politically well-connected individuals. These protests against the quota system of the country show that people are fed up with structural injustices and are calling for a more equitable and transparent allocation of opportunity.

Common Thread:

Despite 54 years of independence, the quota system remains unresolved in Bangladesh, continuing to fuel widespread discontent and unrest. In 1971, it pointed out the discontentment of the Bengalis, living in Pakistan. In 2024, It emphasizes complaints about apparent inequalities and favoritism in government jobs. The persistent feature of these issues serves as an example of the pervasive dissatisfaction caused by disparities and the fight for equitable representation and opportunities.

 

Parallels and Contrasts

The parallels between the two crises are striking and fascinating. Both movements were caused by a desire for justice and equality. In 1971, the fight was against an external force imposing unfair treatment on the Bengali people. In 2024, the battle is against the internal governance system that is being perceived as unjust and oppressive. In addition, both movements saw students and youth at the forefront, playing their pivotal role in shaping the nation's destiny.

However, In contrast, the 1971 liberation war was a fight for national identity and independence that led to the creation of a new nation. On the other extreme, however, the 2024 protests concentrate on improving the current system so as to have equitable governance and fairness in all citizens’ opportunities. Moreover, whereas the 1971 movement galvanized Bengalis against a common adversary; 2024 demonstrations have revealed immense political schisms within Bangladesh.

Parallels

1. Youth-Led Movements:

Both the 1971 Liberation War and the 2024 student protests were significantly driven by the youth of Bangladesh. In 1971, young people, particularly students, played a crucial role in mobilizing support for independence, participating in demonstrations, and forming the backbone of the Mukti Bahini guerrilla forces. Similarly, in 2024, the student community led the protests against the reinstated job quota system, demanding merit-based opportunities and a fairer governance system.

2. Demand for Justice and Equality:

The core of both movements lies in the demand for justice and equality. In 1971, the Bengali population fought against the systemic oppression and economic exploitation by West Pakistan, seeking self-determination and equitable treatment. Protests in 2024 were also sparked by alleged inequalities in the nation's governing structure, including the biassed employment quotas that gave preference to veterans' children, underscoring concerns of inequality and nepotism.

3. Mass Mobilization:

Both crises saw large-scale mobilization of the population. In 1971, the call for independence united millions of Bengalis, transcending social, economic, and regional divides. In 2024, there was a significant turnout for protests where people and students from all throughout the country came to voice their discontent. The scale of these mobilizations is indicative of the deeply rooted frustrations and the widespread desire for change.

4. Government Crackdown:

The government’s response to both movements involved severe crackdowns. In 1971, the Pakistani military’s Operation Searchlight aimed to crush the Bengali nationalist movement through brutal force, leading to widespread atrocities and human rights abuses. In 2024, Sheikh Hasina’s government initially attempted to suppress the protests with police and military force, resulting in significant casualties and further inflaming public anger.

5. Role of Media:

The media was an important element in spreading knowledge and inspiring public support during both the events. In 1971, despite limited technological resources, news of the atrocities and the struggle for independence spread, garnering international sympathy and support. In 2024, internet platforms and social media played a crucial role in protest coordination and real-time updates.

Contrasts 

1. Nature of Oppression:

The oppression faced by Bangladeshis in 1971 came from an external power, West Pakistan, which imposed political, economic, and cultural domination. The 2024 crisis, however, is characterized by internal dissent against a national government perceived as increasingly authoritarian and unjust. This internal vs. external source of oppression is a fundamental difference between the two crises.

2. Objectives of the Movements:

In 1971, the objective was clear and unequivocal – full independence and the creation of a sovereign nation. Even if the 2024 protests were partly motivated by calls for justice and equality, their main goals were systemic changes to the current political structure, namely the removal of discriminatory quotas and the resignation of the current administration. The end goals of the movements thus reflect different aspirations: one for nationhood and the other for governance reform.

3. Leadership and Symbolism:

The leadership in 1971 was personified by Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, who became the symbol of the Bengali independence movement. His leadership offered a focal point around whom the movement came together. The 2024 protests, in comparison, were a more grassroots and decentralized movement without a single, charismatic leader. The movements' organizational structure and strategic orientation were impacted by this shift in leadership dynamics.

4. International Involvement:

International involvement played different roles in the two crises. India's active military engagement in 1971 played a crucial role in ensuring Bangladesh's independence. Recognition and assistance from the international community were vital in the aftermath. In 2024, while international media and human rights organizations highlighted the protests, there was no equivalent direct intervention. However, Sheikh Hasina’s reported flight to India underscores the ongoing regional political interplay, albeit in a different context.

5. Outcomes and Resolutions:

The outcome of the 1971 conflict was the creation of a new nation, a definitive and transformative resolution. Although Sheikh Hasina resigned and an interim government was promised as a result of the protests in 2024, the conclusion is still more hazy and unpredictable. With continuous discussions concerning the establishment of the provisional administration and the possibility of future elections or reforms, Bangladesh's political landscape is still in flux.

6. Role of the Military:

In 1971, the military was the adversary, representing the force of West Pakistan. In 2024, the military played a complex role, initially used by the government to suppress protests but later positioning itself as a neutral entity stepping in to restore order and promise justice. The military's role as a trusted institution in 2024 contrasts sharply with its position as an oppressor in 1971.

 

Future Prospects: What Lies Ahead

The road ahead for Bangladesh is uncertain. Establishing an interim government presents an opportunity for reform and national cohesion. However, this completely depends upon the new govt setup and how effectively they can heal the long-standing political and social disparities, Only time will tell how successful these measures are.

 

Bangladesh is at a crossroads, and the lessons learned in 1971 tell about the country's resilience and determination. If the country stays true to the spirit of the liberation war—one of tenacity and unity—it may overcome its current problems.

Bangladesh may discover the will to create a future based on equality, justice, and democratic principles by taking stock of its past.

In conclusion, despite occurring decades apart, the political crises of 1971 and 2024 have a lot in common, including struggle, resiliency, and the pursuit of justice. By looking at its past, Bangladesh can find the strength to reshape its future and make a society whose core values will be based on justice, equality, and peaceful existence.

Conclusion

Although more than five decades have passed between Bangladesh's political crises of 1971 and 2024, there is a concerning pattern in the country's battle against structural injustices. The differences that first spurred the independence movement continue to be the focus of demonstrations, showing how unresolved issues may linger and jeopardize national stability. Nonetheless, the people of Bangladesh are extraordinarily tough, and their unwavering pursuit of justice shows a deep dedication to progress.

It is possible to turn the page on a difficult chapter and open the door for enduring peace and togetherness as the nation navigates these obstacles and works towards a more equitable and inclusive future.