6.

Recognition of independent Bangladesh and the role of India

One of the most important issues during the liberation war of Bangladesh was the recognition
of Bangladesh as an independent state. In fact, throughout the 1971, the people of India,
various organizations, political parties, various state governments, members of Lok Sabha
and Rajya Sabha, in a word, the recognition of Bangladesh became a dominant factor in the
internal politics of India. That is, pressure was exerted on the Government from various
levels to grant recognition. The key questions that this chapter will try to answer are: What
was the type of the private pressure on the Government regarding the question of
recognition? That is, what kind of public opinion was formed on the question of recognition
on the private level. Second, how did the various state Governments of India react to the
question of recognition in the state legislature. Third, what was the direction of the debate
that arouse on the question of recognition in the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha of India?
Fourth, what kind of action was taken by the contemporary political parties of India in this
regard.
We know that the military of Pakistan implemented Operation Searchlight on the night of
March 25, 1971, in which the forces launched a surprise attack on innocent civilians in
various parts of East Pakistan, including Dhaka. The Pak army started genocide with the aim
of ethnic cleansing of Bengalis. In this situation, Bangabondhu Mujibur Rahman, the Leader
of Awami League, the majority party in the National Assembly of Pakistan, declared the
formal independence of Bangladesh on the night of March 25. After taking the official oath,
Prime Minister Taj Uddin Ahmed said in a speech titled “To the people of the world”, ‘we
are appealing to the nations of the world to seek material and moral help as well as
recognition for our struggle for nationalism. Thousands of lives are coming to an end every
day. Respond now in the interest of humanity and gain our immortal friendship. Just as no
nation has more right to be recognized than we have, no other nation has fought harder than
we have for this right.’ [1]
The first demand for recognition of Bangladesh as an independent state was raised at the
private level through the meetings held on March 27, in connection with the student strikes
and through various political parties, trade unions, student teachers, youth and academics. In
a report published in the daily Jugantar on March 28, 1971 under the headline ‘Meetings and
Processions in West Bengal to protest the killing of Pak soldiers in Bangladesh’, the above
organizations demanded the independent Bangladesh to be recognized as a full-fledged state.
At the same time, the meeting held on the occasion of the student strike demanded from the
Government of India to recognize the sovereign independent Bangladesh and to provide
moral and material assistance. [2] On the same day, a report in Ganasakti (Sandhya Daily)
said, “After the successful school-college strike, a huge meeting was held at the Kolkata
University premises. The meeting was chaired by Parimal Raut. The main proposal was
raised by Biman Basu. This proposal supported the demand for autonomy of the people
fighting in Bangladesh.”
Sovereign Bangladesh’s recognition was demanded from the Indira Government. A statement
issued by the United Left Front said that the Indian Government should immediately
recognize Bangladesh. [3] Anila Devi, secretary of the Nikhilbanga Teachers’ Association,
said in a statement on behalf of secondary teachers and education workers in West Bengal,
“We demand an immediate recognition of an independent Bangladesh by the Government of
India.” On behalf of the committee on July 12, K.G. Basu and Arvind Ghosh demanded that
the independent sovereign democracy of Bangladesh should be recognized. The statement
issued by the West Bengal State Secretariat of the Democratic Youth Federation on the same
day demanded immediate recognition of the Sovereign Independent Government of East
Bengal. [4] On 29th March, various organizations in West Bengal became vocal in
demanding recognition of Bangladesh and supply of arms to the Liberation Army. [5] In
support of Bangladesh’s Liberation struggle, various student organizations staged a series of
demonstrations in front of the Pakistan Deputy High Commissioner’s building in Kolkata
from 1pm to 8pm. One among many slogans of the protestors was to recognize independent
Bangladesh. [6] In a resolution passed on March 30 by the West Bengal Democratic
Women’s Association in support of Bangladesh struggle, the association, among many
others, demanded the Government of India to recognize Bangladesh’s independent sovereign
democracy in general. [7] At a meeting of workers at the South Eastern Railway headquarters
at 1pm on March 289, organized by the Garden rich branch of the South Eastern Railway
Union, Shanti Chakraborty, secretary of the Union demanded that the independent sovereign
Government of Bangladesh be recognized by the Indian Government immediately. The
statement issued by Sameer Mustafi, General Secretary of the Federation of Mercantile
Employees Union, in support of the liberation war of Bangladesh, demanded immediate
recognition of the provisional revolutionary government of Bangladesh. [8]
The state’s political parties, various trade unions and student organizations called for a strike
on March 31 in West Bengal to demand immediate diplomatic recognition of Bangladesh’s
sovereign and independent state and to protest the militant’s brutal attacks on Bangladesh’s
freedom fighters. [9] According to the editorial of Ganasakti, four and a half crore people of
West Bengal participated in this general strike and hartal. [10] The Jadavpur University
Employees’ Parliament, in its March 29 meeting, demanded from the Government of India
that the Provisional Government of Bangladesh be immediately given diplomatic recognition
as an independent sovereign democratic state. On the same day students and staff of Udayan
Hostel (61/1 Nirmalachandra Street) marched to the Pakistan embassy at 8am to protest
against the barbaric attack by the Pakistani military authorities. It suggested that Pakistani
military intervention in Bangladesh should be stopped and the military should be withdrawn
from Bangladesh. The Government of India must recognize independent Bangladesh. On the
same day the Calcutta Municipal Teachers and Workers Union issued a statement expressing
strong solidarity with the heroic struggle of the freedom-loving people of Bangladesh and
demanded recognition of Bangladesh. A similar statement was made by the Kolkata
Corporation Large Tube Well Employees Association. [11]
The statement issued by the General Secretary of the Democratic Youth Federation on April
2 had three issues- (1) To recognize the independent Bangladesh government, (2) We should
help independent Bangladesh with all kinds of arms and aids along with other necessities, (3)
Border barriers needs to be removed to help the struggle for an independent Bangladesh.
Jyoti Basu was made the president, Sudhir Kumar was made the editor and Krishnapad
Ghosh was made the treasurer with 21 members in 'Bangladesh Solidarity and Aid
Committee' was formed and they also demanded the recognition of the democratic
government of Bangladesh. [12] A rally was organized by the Trade Union Coordination
Committee in Baranagar to demand recognition of Bangladesh. From this gathering people
from all walks of life, were asked to help the freedom fighters with all necessities especially
with finance, medicine and so on to meet their need at the moment. At the rally, the
government of India was demanded to recognize an independent and sovereign Bangladesh
without delay. A statement issued by the Democratic Youth Federation aimed at helping
Bangladesh's freedom fighters made three demands- (1) The Government of India must
recognize the independent government of Bangladesh, (2) All necessary help including arms
should be sent to the freedom fighters, (3) We need to help the liberation struggle by
removing obstacles at the border. [13]
On 3rd April, a discussion titled "Why hesitate" was published under the influence of mass
power. The main issue was the recognition of the Government of Bangladesh by the
Government of India. An initiative was taken by the Student Parliament of Bangabasi
College, to hold a meeting in the common room of the college in support of independent
Bengal. Demands were made for a diplomatic recognition of independent Bangladesh by the
Government of India and that India is to provide independent Bangladesh with all kinds of
arms and aids along with all necessities saying this the meeting was concluded. The general
meeting of Yards workers and employees was held at Alipore Telegraph Store, the resolution
adopted at that meeting called for the recognition of the independent Bengali government by
the Government of India. The statement made in support of Bangladesh's liberation struggle
by the General Secretory of the Federation of Metal and Engineering workers’ Union it was
written in one place "The people of Bengal and India have a responsibility to help this
liberation war in every possible way. In order to make it work, we demand from the Central
Government of India that, support the freedom fighters with diplomatic recognition of
independent Bangladesh." [14] 'Successful strike and in Chuchura district of Hooghly in
support of independent Bangladesh: huge public meeting' The headline was written as - In the
afternoon, a public meeting of more than five thousand people was held at Chuchura Maidan,
the meeting was chaired by Amit Nandi, Mayor of Chuchura Municipality of Hooghly, as
president he raised a proposal at the meeting. In this proposal, it has been demanded from the
Indian Government that, the government of independent Bangladesh must be recognized
immediately. [15] On 31st March, a successful and spontaneous strike was observed in the
Uttarpara region demanding recognition of the government of Bangladesh. Strikes were also
observed in other factories including Hindustan Motor. At 4 pm from Hindmotor station there
was an uprising which included students, youth, women, Hindustan Motor Workers' Union, at
the call of various mass organizations including Rashtriya Sangram Samiti, a huge and
unprecedented procession marched around Kotrang Bhadrakali area and reached Uttarpara
station. This successful strike and huge procession created a huge stir in the minds of the
people of the area. [16] At one point in the resolution adopted at the Motijheel Tentament
Association meeting, it was said, with great sadness that we notice that the Government of
India has not properly evaluated the value of this liberation war to the struggling people of
Bangladesh. They are underestimating this struggle of Bangladesh. The Government of India
has done nothing but only has provided verbal sympathy to these struggling people. They are
also not recognizing the provisional government of Bangladesh. At the meeting of the
Motijheel Tentament Association, it was demanded from the Government of India to
recognize the provisional government of Bangladesh. [17] In the resolution adopted at the
meeting of Andrew Wheel & Company Limited Employees Union it was demanded from the
Government of India to recognize the sovereign independent Bengal. The main demands
made in the resolution adopted at a meeting of the ESIC Employees' Union were: (1) The
Government of Independent Bangladesh shall be recognized without any delay, (2) The
border fence of Bengal must be lifted, (3) The revolutionary masses should be provided
medicines, food and medical supplies. The demands made by West Bengal State
Coordination Committee to the Government of India are- (1) to give immediate diplomatic
recognition to the Provisional Independent Government of Bangladesh, (2) materials should
be send to support the freedom fighters of Bangladesh, (3) to open the border between West
Bengal and East Bengal should be opened to provide various assistance from the people of
West Bengal. [18]
In support of the freedom fighters of Bangladesh and in demanding recognition of the
government of Bangladesh a proposal was adopted at meeting of Vidyasagar Evening
College students, professors and educators. This same demand was made on 1 st April at the
call of Surendranath Evening College student parliament under the chairmanship of Professor
Satyakumar Chattopadhaye, a convention was held with students, teachers and staff in
support of the liberation struggle of the freedom fighters of Bangladesh. In support of their
struggle, they accepted the offer and demanded that the provisional Government of
Independent Bengal be recognized by the government of India. [19] In a resolution taken
from a meeting of the committee on 12th July, it appealed t the government of India that, (1)
Diplomatic recognition should be given to the Provisional Government of Bangladesh, (2)
weapons, ammunition, medicines and other necessary items should be provided to help the
freedom fighters of Bangladesh. (3) The border between West Bengal and East Bengal should
be opened to provide maximum assistance to the people of West Bengal. The Tata Well
Mill’s Employees Union held a general meeting on 30 th March to discuss the current situation
in Bangladesh, one of the main demands in the non-consensual proposal was the recognition
of the provisional Government of Bangladesh by the Government of India. On 30 th March, a
huge procession of workers, employees, students and farmers from the Tagore centre in
Farakka came to Lal Maidan to hold a public meeting and the main proposal put forward by
Anup Maitra in the public meeting was to present to the central government an independent,
sovereign, democratic government to be recognized. [20]
At a meeting organized by the Behala L.I.G Housing Estate and Tenant Association, the
meeting demanded that the Government of India, the Government of India should
immediately recognize Bangladesh as an independent sovereign, democratic state. On July
12, a telegram was sent to Prime Minister Indira Gandhi from the Farakka branch of the
committee which said- The Pakistani military's attack on the unarmed patriots of
Bangladesh's independence movement should not be taken lightly, all the necessary help
should be provided to the freedom fighters in defence of Bangladesh and Bangladesh should
be recognized. The Government of India was requested to recognize the proposal adopted by
the Hindustan Steel Employees Association. The people of Tripura also stood by the people
of Bangladesh demanding recognition. The report that was published in Ganashakti also
wrote about this- “At the border when there was fraternal exchange of students, youth and
people, at that time protests were going on in the streets of Agartala all day, effigies of Yahya
were burnt, their voices were rising, Government of India give arms to the people of East
Bengal, give all kinds of help, recognize the government of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, stop
this genocide. The whole city was abuzz with their voices.” [21] The 'Liberation Struggle
Subsidiary Association' was formed with the help of Bangladesh under the leadership of the
then Chief Minister of West Bengal, the Central Government of India has been asked to
recognize the Independent Sovereign Republic of Bangladesh based on their adopted
resolution and urges the United Nations to take appropriate action to stop the genocide and
brutal atrocities committed by Pakistani forces in Bangladesh And all the countries of the
world, especially the Afro-Asian states, are urged to be proactive in this regard. [22] On 12th
July, a letter was sent to Indira Gandhi on behalf of the committee demanding recognition-
The Struggling Independent Bangladesh Subsidiary Association that was formed by the
initiative of intellectuals and its president was Shri Tara Shankar Banerjee. In a unanimous
resolution, Bangladesh strongly condemned the genocide, destruction, rape and looting of
West Pakistani militants. The resolution called on the Indian government to recognize
Bangladesh under the leadership of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman without delay and arrange to
send medicines and other aid to the freedom fighters. [23] The petition that was circulated
about the current war situation in Bangladesh by this Association, at one place, the
recognition of the new government of Bangladesh was demanded. [24] A rally was organized
by the Democratic Women's Association of West Bengal at the Shaheed Minar Maidan, at
that meeting, a proposal was accepted to demand the recognition of Bangladesh. The
proposal was raised by Madhuri Dasgupta, general secretary of the association, to recognize
Bangladesh to the Prime Minister through a Governor from the guardian of the democratic
women’s association at the Raj Bhavan and also provided a memorandum regarding arms
assistance engagement claims. Jyoti Chakraborty, Madhuri Dasgupta, Kanak Mukhopadhaye,
Pankaj Acharjee, Bimala Randive, Bibha Ghosh Pramukh were the delegates. In support of
the liberation struggle of Bangladesh and for various demands including recognition of
Bangladesh a gathering of artists, artisans, writers and journalists was held at Subodh Mallick
Square. In this gathering Indian Census Union, Painter’s Front, North Calcutta Film’s
Society, Nandan Cine Technician Worker’s Association, B.S.P.I.I.U staff and leader were
present. In a memorandum given to the Governor at the end of the gathering the Government
of India demanded the recognition of the Government of Bangladesh. The members from the
Kolkata branch of All Bengal’s Primary Teachers’ Association also demanded the
recognition of an independent Bangladesh. [25] In the memorandum given by the students-
teachers, non-teaching staff of Jadavpur University after the protest in front of the Pakistan
Deputy High Commissioner, in its they demanded an end to the genocide in Bangladesh and
recognition of an independent Bangladesh. [26] The West Bengal College and University
Teachers’ Association took up the program. Democratic Youth Federation, Other Farmer’s
Association, All Bengal Teachers’ Association, All Bengal Primary Teachers’ Association,
Student Federation held a convention on behalf of such organizations at Dhatrigram High
School on 4th April in support of the Bangladesh Liberation Struggle and demanded
recognition of Bangladesh. [27] (Struggling) Independent Bangladesh Association said in a
unanimous resolution that the Government of India should immediately recognize
Bangladesh formed under the leadership of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman without any further
delay and to provide the freedom fighters with medical and all other assistance needed. [28]
The application form that was published by the Bangladesh Solidarity and Aid Committee
there it was written that our demand to the Government of India is to recognize the
Government of Bangladesh. [29]
The Democratic Convention of Calcutta district to recognize the independent and
sovereign Bangladesh and it was also demanded to provide all kinds of weapons along with
other necessities without any delay. It was further stated that we are demanding for the
fulfilment of these responsibilities and duties by the Indian government. [30] In the resolution
adopted at a large gathering on the lawn of Calcutta University before the student-youth
protest procession in Calcutta on 10th April, it was demanded that the independent
government of Bangladesh should be recognized. The meeting was chaired by Shri Dinesh
Majumder. The proposal was proposed by Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee. The speakers were
Biman Basu, Subhash Chakraborty, and Shyamal Chakraborty Pramukh. Due to lack of space
at the university, students gathered at the tram line on Cornwallis Street. [31] After a huge
procession of workers, employees and teachers on April 7 at Farraka, a meeting took place at
a local recreation hall. Speakers at the meeting sharply criticized the Indian government's
virtually silent policy on Bangladesh and the mass movement to put pressure on the
Government of India to recognize Bangladesh and provide the necessary assistance. [32] The
committee formed in support of Bangladesh under the name 'NATIONAL AID BODY FOR
BANGLADESH' in Delhi, speaking to reporters on behalf of the committee, MP Professor
Samar Guha (Convener-Secretary, National Co-ordination Committee for Bangladesh) said-
The government of India and Russia should give immediate recognition to
the government of Bangladesh and start intensive diplomatic campaign for giving
early recognition to this Government by order world powers. [33]
UNI was mentioned in the newspaper Amritbazar -
The explorer’s club of India has organised a mass signature campaign in support of its
demand for immediate recognition of Bangladesh, reports UNI. The campaign was
inaugurated on Wednesday by noted artist Jamini Roy who signed the petition to be
presented to the Prime Minister of India and the UN Secretary General. The club
members fanned out to different parts of the city with copies of petition. The campaign
will be carried out throughout the state. [34]
All India, State and Central Workers-Teachers-Employees Joint Movement Committee on
12th July at Jaipur police station branch of the Committee (Bankura) has accepted a
resolution in support of Bangladesh. A message was send to the President demanding
recognition of Bangladesh. The council of 'Lekha O Rekha' in Purulia condemned the attack
of the Pak army on Bangladesh. And demanded the Government of India to recognize
Bangladesh. In a public meeting held at Azad Hind Library premises on 17th April at Garia
on the initiative of 'Folk and Artists' branch of Indian People’s Theatre Association (Garia),
the government of Bangladesh was demanded to be recognized immediately. Prominent
leader of Hooghly district MP Vijay Modak presided over the function on April 16 in support
of the independent Bangladesh, the convention was held at the Town Hall of Serampore on
the invitation of the State Struggle Association and the United Left Front of Hoogly District.
In this public meeting various district and various mass organizations, district and local
farmers’ meetings, Hoogly district committee ABTA, All Bengal Primary Teachers
Association Hooghly District Branch, Hooghly District Democratic Youth Federation,
Hooghly District Women's Association, Hooghly District Student Federation (SFI), in
addition, representatives of many trade unions were present. The resolution of this public
meeting demanded recognition of the independent Bengali government. [35] Muslim
intellectuals in India called for recognition of Bangladesh. At a meeting at the Jamia Rural
Institute in Okhla, Muslim intellectuals appealed to the Indian government to recognize
Bangladesh. [36] The Executive Committee of the West Bengal State C.I.T.U adopted a
number of proposals at a meeting on 15th April. In this proposal, C.I.T.U demanded the
Government of India, (1) to recognize the Government of Bangladesh immediately, (2) to
help the liberation forces with all kinds of weapons, ammunitions along with all other
necessities and (3) to remove all border barriers so that aid can flow freely to the freedom
fighters and also that both the countries can interact easily. Marxist Communist Party leader
Samar Mukherjee addresses a rally of railway workers on April 18 at the South Institute Hall
in Santragachi, Howrah and there at one stage, he demanded the recognition of the
Bangladesh government. He said that “the freedom struggle of Bangladesh has turned into the
struggle of the entire human race today.” The importance of this struggle is immense. On
April 9, the democratic people of the area near Birati Municipality, workers, peasants,
farmers, teachers, professors, students, youth, women, representatives of various mass
organizations, Municipal Commissioner and prominent citizens in their presence a meeting
was held. The meeting was chaired by Municipal Chief Chitta Basu who raised demands
from the Government of India for the recognition of the Government of Bangladesh, removal
of border barriers, sending of all assistance including arms and medicine. In West Bengal, the
proposal was also accepted by withdrawing Section 144 and demanding the opportunity to
organize public support through free public rallies. [37]
At a meeting by the working committee of the Supervisor Staff and Officers' Association of
Calcutta University, a telegram was sent to the Prime Minister requesting immediate
recognition of Bangladesh. [38] In support of the struggle of Bangladesh and in recognition
of the demand for recognition of the independent democratic government of Bangladesh, On
the afternoon of 19th April, a public meeting of artists, writers, film workers and crew and
journalists was held at ABTA Hall. This meeting was chaired by Muhammad Abdullah
Rasool. In his inaugural address, Professor Jyoti Bhatacharjee, Member, Bangladesh
Solidarity and Aid Committee, said that, the Government of India should have already
recognized the People's Republic of Bangladesh, recognition during the first phase would
have helped the people more in this struggle. In a statement from this meeting the
Government of India has been asked to lift the border restrictions, to provide suitable
weapons to the people, and to recognize the independent People's Republic of Bangladesh.
All the mass organizations and associations present at this meeting were: Indian People’s
Theatre Association, Cine Central, North-Calcutta film’s Society, Cine Technician and
Worker’s Union, Bengal Motion Pictures Employee’s Union, Siloti, Traveller, Pavlov and so
on. Among the various magazines were: Ganashakti, Deshitoishi, Nandan, Eksathe,
Chotushkone, Basumati, Jugman and so on. The notable among artists, writers, poets,
playwrights, musicians, journalists and intellectuals who were present are: Shivprasad
Chakraborty, Nepal Majumdar, Bijon Chowdhury, Shyamal Chakraborty, Omio Sengupta,
Sudhi Pradhan, Anunoy Chattopadhay, Tapobijoy Ghosh, Jyoti Prakash, Indranath
Bandhopadhay, Ranjit Singh, Sourin Basu, Madan Pramanick, Ashim Basu, Shatendra Chaki,
Gopinath De, Saroj De so on and leading staff and artists of the above organizations. [39]
‘Why is the Indian government so hesitant and so afraid?’ -The article written by
Vivekananda Mukherjee under this title stated in one place that - Prime Minister Indira
Gandhi, Foreign Minister Saran Singh and Defense Minister Jagjivan Ram, on behalf of the
public for the purpose, in the name of democracy and freedom, we are appealing to the
democracy that is brutally killing freedom today so to give diplomatic recognition to the
government of independent Bangladesh. All the political parties, all the legislatures and all
the democratic institutions of India are raising their voices in unison. [40] At a meeting held
on April 24 at Park Circus Maidan in memory of the martyrs of Bangladesh, Promod
Dasgupta criticized the Indian government by saying that the Indira government is not
recognizing the Bangladesh government due to diplomatic excuses. [41] Rallies continued
across India in support of Bangladesh's recognition. In this context, it was written in
Ganashakti newspaper that, meetings are being held here in Bengal in support of the deadly
struggle for independence in Bangladesh. A solidarity committee is being formed to help.
The Government of India has been asked to recognize the Government of Bangladesh
without delay. Demanding to recognize the independent government of Bangladesh, in
Chandannagar at the call of the Chandannagar Regional Committee of the Bengal Provincial
Students Federation at the local Kannailal Vidyamandir, a democratic public meeting was
held to demand the recognition of Bangladesh. About 250 students were present at the public
meeting. In this same context, a huge student-teacher procession ‘katoran’ in Uttarpara,
Hooghly district, demanding recognition of the government of Bangladesh, After leaving the
Adarsh Vidyalaya, Katoran traverses various paths of Bhadrakali. The slogan of the
procession was "Recognize, give arms, open the fence at the border, withdraw the CRP,
military and section 144 from West Bengal." etc. At the end of the procession, Mannan
Chowdhury, Secretary of Uttarpara Regional Students Federation and Ajit Bag of Teachers
Movement spoke.
A huge student procession in Goaltar, Midnapore district, demanding recognition of the
Bangladesh government, submitted a memorandum to the local block office, and one of their
demands was to recognize the government of Bangladesh as the government of India. The
procession was led by Shankar Chowdhury and Saibal Patra Pramukh. A public meeting was
held at Shrikhand in Katwa subdivision of Burdwan district demanding recognition of the
Bangladesh government. Amalendu Roy presided over the meeting. At this meeting all of
them jointly demanded the recognition of independent Bengal from the central government.
The West Bengal Food and Supply Department-Employees' Association made the proposal at
a meeting seeking recognition from the Bangladesh government. In Raiganj, student-youth
processions and deputations were organized on the basis of three-point demands including
recognition of independent Bangladesh. [42] The Regional Democratic Convention was held
in Rajarhat in support of Bangladesh. The convention was hosted by Robin Mandal, a
regional leader of the Marxist Communist Party. CITU, Student Federation, Youth
Federation, Farmers’ Association, All India Peoples’ Theatre Association, Woman’s
Association, A.B.P.T.O, ABTA, etc. On behalf of the mass organization, the speakers spoke
in support of the proposal for recognition of Bangladesh. The keynote speaker was
Shantimoy Ghosh, one of the leaders of the 24 Parganas District Marxist Communist Party.
On the occasion of the 40th anniversary of the Chittagong Youth Uprising, a meeting was
held in Calcutta on April 16 to commemorate the revolution. From this meeting, a resolution
was passed demanding recognition and assistance to the Government of Bangladesh. [43]
The news published in the Statesman newspaper about the proposal of the Muslim
community of Calcutta against the atrocities of the Pak army was written-
At a meeting, a solution was adopted by the Muslim citizens in Calcutta on Friday
condemning the brutal attacks on the people of Bangladesh by the West Pakistani Army
and urged the Government of India to recognise the Bangladesh Government. It was
also stated that India should take up the question of genocide in Bangladesh at U.N. Mr
Ghulam Mohiuddin, M.L.A presided over the meeting and among the speakers were
Mr. A.K.M. Ishaque, M.P. and Mr. Amzad Ali. [44]
In the pamphlet published on behalf of India-Bangladesh Friendship Society and Secretary
Dhiren Bhowmik, there the recognition of the Government of Bangladesh was also raised in
the first and fifth of the ten-point demands of the organization. The first claim was written as-
Immediate recognition of Bangladesh by all civilised countries. Countries believing in
civilization freedom and democracy should come for a word.
And the fifth claim was written as-
Western countries, who are also champion of democracy should come forward to
recognize Bangladesh and to stop planned butchery of civilian population. U.S.A., U.K,
Japan, Germany and France have got special responsibilities to stop genocide. [45]
Demand to the Government of India to accept the Government of Bangladesh on the basis of
the resolution adopted at the Central Executive Meeting of the Bengal Chatkal Workers
Union. [46] At the call of the Bangladesh National Coordinating Committee, a resolution
adopted at the Shaheed Minar Maidan on the occasion of 'Bangladesh Recognition Day' all
over India said that, it is the essential duty of the Government of India today to recognize and
assist Bangladesh without delay. The resolution further said that Bangladesh's freedom
struggle was a litmus test in front of India's national life. If this wonderful opportunity fails,
the present national life of India will be distorted and future life will be extremely
endangered. A memorandum in this regard was also submitted to the Governor. The meeting
was chaired by Dr. Ramesh Chandra Majumdar. While keeping a say, the former Chief
Minister Prafulla Chandra Ghosh said that India should not have any issues in recognizing
Bangladesh. Mr. Sushil Dhara said that India should be a guide in recognizing Bangladesh.
Professor Haripad Bharati said that the Indian government has been supporting Pakistan's
militancy on the issue of Bangladesh's recognition by staying silent so far. He demanded
immediate recognition and active cooperation of the Bangladesh government. Professor
Samar Guha (MP) passed the resolution in the meeting. [47]
In the meeting of the executive committee held by the S. F. I. in Delhi on 24th, 25 th and 26th
April, they demanded immediate recognition of the Government of Bangladesh from the
Indian Government. All kinds of aid including providing the weapons to the people of
Bangladesh was demanded. [48] At the biennial conference of the headquarters of the Youth
Federation in Agartala, recognition of the Government of Bangladesh and providing help to
the refugees was demanded. [49] Sarvodaya leader Sri Jay Prakash Narayan has appealed to
all the countries to recognize the independent Bangladesh government as soon as possible.
[50] At the Shaheed Minar, on the birthday of the Prophet of Islam, a demand was made to
recognize Bangladesh, the proposal drew the attention of the Government of India to the fact
that, Bangladesh needs to provide with arms aid, not just recognition. The meeting was
presided by West Bengal Justice Minister Shri Ajit Kumar Panja, addressed by Sardar
Mahtab Singh, Maulana Mohammad Nasim Ali Azad and others. [51] ‘Why the denial of
recognition?’- An editorial in Anandabazar under this headline criticized Indira Gandhi’s
ambiguity. It was written in this editorial- that old question of the recognition is sometimes
seen as a mirage in the light of a line of hope. The pressure on the Central Government was
huge, with almost all the opposition parties saying in unison, “Recognize the Bangladesh
Government.” This demand was heard in the voices of various political parties, even in the
legislatures of several states. The unanimous resolution of the West Bengal Legislative
Assembly on Friday is historic in many ways. Its statement is a sign of goodwill towards the
sovereign democratic republic of Bangladesh, but it also stated the expectation and the need
of our neighbors in this crisis- Delhi still seems to have not settled its mind. Not because of
the fear, but the Prime Minister herself announced this. If not fear, then what is the root of
hesitation? This country will fully support the liberation movement but will not give
diplomatic recognition- it is a little difficult to match these two. As if there is a conflict with
the hesitation that it will not be recognized at all, though Mrs. Gandhi did not say this but
asked to wait. How much longer do we wait? After how many more human sacrifices? [52]
Jyoti Basu, the leader of the Marxist Communist Party, said this while addressing a massive
public meeting convened by the Trade Union Coordination Committee in Durgapur on May
11 in support of the liberation war of Bangladesh- ‘We have demanded from the very
beginning that the Government of Bangladesh. Unfortunately, even today, we have to make
the same demand. Then Indira said- whom will we recognize? There is no Government there.
But now it has established a formal Government there. Why are you so hesitant to recognize
it now?” He added, “If the Government of India does not immediately recognize the
Government of Bangladesh, we have to build a strong movement.” [53]
But in the speech that Jay Prakash Narayan gave at the meeting of the Gandhi Peace
Foundation in Delhi, which was published in the Times of India, on the question of the
recognition of Bangladesh he said-
Pleading for the recognition of the Bangladesh Government, Mr. Narayan said: “I
differ with the Prime Minister on this question.” [54]
Among the prominent lawyers and academics in New Delhi are Shri M. C. Chagla, Mr. C. K.
Daftari, Mr. V. K. Krishna Menon and Dr. L. M. Singvi. Another prominent lawyer, Mr. M.
C. Shitalbad arguing for the recognition he said that India should move ahead and recognize
Bangladesh in moral, legal, political and other aspects as well. ‘When I hear from time to
time from the Government that we have to keep a watchful eye, wait and see what others are
doing, my blood boils. This is a great reason why India should go ahead and do everything.
Former defense minister Krishna Menon said, the question of recognition was not a matter of
arguing whether it was legal or not. Gone are those days of enforcing the law on those who
trample on the freedom of the people. The question of law and order cannot arise during a
revolution. Then Algeria could not have been freed from the French Rule. We did not obey
the law even when the British were being chased away. Former Indian Attorney General Shri
Shitalbad, however, said that whether we could be dragged into a situation where a war with
Pakistan could break out, has to be carefully considered. [55]
The people of Bankura district also came forward in support of Bangladesh. A district
convention was held at Bankura Hindu School Hall in support of Bangladesh's struggle at the
call of Bankura District Branch of 'Bangladesh Solidarity and Aid Committee'. In this
convention proposals were raised demanding the recognition of Bangladesh, providing all
kinds of help including the arms and weapons and opening the border gates. Marxist
Communist Party, Revolutionary Congress of Bengal, 12 th July Committee, State
Government employees’ co-ordination Committee, State Bank Employees Union, South
Eastern Railway Men’s Union, all Bengal Teachers’ Association, all Bengal primary
Teachers’ Association, Representatives of various organizations like Krishak Samiti, Mahila
Samiti, Students and Youth Federation supported the proposal. [56] On May 17, in the
premises of Garia Laskarpur Vidyasagar Vidyapith in Kolkata, speaking at the extended
council meeting of the U.C.R.C., Samar Mukherjee, a member of Lok Sabha, called on the
Government of India to recognize the Government of Bangladesh and compelled it to provide
all possible assistance, including arms and weapons. [57] The first of the eleven points raised
by the pro-democracy activists in Malda and West Dinajpur districts called for an immediate
recognition of the independent sovereign democratic republic of Bangladesh by the
Government of India without putting it on paper. [58]
‘Bangladesh should be recognized immediately’- In this headline, Professor Samar Guha
criticized the negative role of the Government of India in recognizing Bangladesh in
Jugantar. In this article he expressed a strong opinion in favor of recognition. The
overwhelming effect of the national uprising in Bangladesh on the public opinion in India is
reflected in the unanimous historic resolution adopted by the Indian Parliament. The entire
public hoped that the proposal would be properly implemented with immediate recognition of
the Government of the independent Republic of Bangladesh. But on May 7, the Opposition
unanimously expressed the view that it was an essential national duty of the Government of
India to recognize this country immediately in accordance with the resolution passed in
Parliament and for its effective support to Bangladesh’s freedom struggle. The Government
side feels that the right time has not yet come to recognize Bangladesh and such recognition
will not be conductive to Bangladesh’s freedom struggle at present. Opposition parties, on the
other hand, have almost unanimously agreed at the PM’s meeting that immediate recognition
of Bangladesh is essential and such recognition is the only way to complete the struggle in
the shortest possible time with the effective support of Bangladesh’s freedom fighters. Not
only the opposition but also many established leaders of the state legislatures, countless
peoples’ bodies in India and the ruling Congress have demanded immediate recognition of
Bangladesh. Now the Government’s policy of not recognizing Bangladesh is not only vague,
inconsistent and unreasonable, but also democratically, the Government is detached from
Indian public opinion today. Why recognizing Bangladesh is not helpful for that country
now, the Indian Government has not been able to present a rational analysis publicly or at a
meeting of the leaders. However, every patriotic Bengali in Bangladesh, every political party
and their newly formed national Government has unanimously demanded recognition not
only from the Government of India, but from every Government of the world. [59]
In this article, he further wrote, “In a meeting with the opposition, a minister said that help
could be given to Bangladesh even without recognition. Of course help could be given, in
secret. But in a democratic country like India, it is not possible to keep such an aid a secret,
and such an endeavor cannot be justified on the part of the donors as well as recipients for a
great cause like the freedom struggle of Bangladesh. It has been questioned from the Indian
Governments’ end that even if India recognizes Bangladesh, the Government of this country
will not be able to establish itself in the international arena. If this is true, then it will also be
true that the recognition by one state will give the Government of Bangladesh the status it
deserves by launching an international campaign to establish India’s views and pave the way
for recognition by the other states. It will be easier for the Government of Bangladesh to
expedite the liberation struggle of Bangladesh with the military assistance of India by openly
accepting the state debt. India must also be the first to recognize Bangladesh in order to win
the hearts of the people of Bangladesh and pave the way for future friendship and
cooperation. If India, alone, can show this political foresight and fearlessness, then India’s
establishment and authority in South Asian Politics will be unique and in the near future India
will be able to emerge as a first class state in the world community. If India waits to follow
any other country in recognizing Bangladesh, India will not be able to overcome its current
state of dependence and perspective in the international arena.” [60]
The General secretary of the Bengal Chatkal Workers Union criticized in a statement that
while the horrific barbaric massacre was going on in Bangladesh, at a time when millions of
people were fleeing Bangladesh and taking refuge in this country, an appeal to the Indian
Government was made to recognize aid and lift border restrictions, was yet to be materialize.
[61] The resolution passed at the meeting of the West Bengal Government employees held at
Shaheed Minar on May 22 stated that the struggling people of Bangladesh have already
established an independent and sovereign Bangladesh Government and it is imperative today
to recognize this government and provide all possible assistance by the democratic nations
and people of the world. That is why this meeting again demanded the Government of India
to respond immediately to the request of independent Bangladesh and give immediate
diplomatic recognition to the independent Government of Bangladesh in response to its
independent appeal. [62] The proposal made by the 24 Parganas District Field Workers’
Association criticized the Central Government and said that the present anti-land
Government, other than the verbal sympathy, has done nothing in recognizing Bangladesh. It
is still indifferent to the need for real help, including weapons. The Field Workers'
Association has suggested that immediate recognition and necessary assistance be provided.
[63] A proposal was also accepted in the municipal session of the Calcutta Corporation
demanding recognition of Bangladesh. The news published in this regard read: “A resolution
demanding the recognition of Bangladesh was adopted at the special meeting of the
corporation on 26th May in Calcutta. Apart from helping Bangladesh with arms, the resolution
said that despite the unanimous resolution passed by the West Bengal Legislative Assembly
recognizing Bangladesh, the Indian Government has so far failed to implement it. And this
meeting is calling on the people of West Bengal, especially the citizens of Kolkata, to put
pressure on the Government of India to implement the proposal. With a speech in support of
the proposal Hariprasad Chatterjee (C.P.I.M.) said that by not recognizing Bangladesh, the
Indira Government is betraying the freedom-loving people of Bangladesh. C.P.I.M.’s Dr.
Naresh Banerjee, Dr. Devidas Ganesh Dastidar, S.S.P.’s Biman Mitra, Forward Block’s
Shyamal Dutta, Dr. K.P. Ghosh, Kamalapati Roy, Ranjit Dhar of S.U.C., Shyamsundar
Goyenka of JanaSangha, S. K. Khanna and Dr. Biren Basu of Congress and many others. [64]
A joint organization of all democratic workers, central and state government employees,
students, teachers, banks, insurance employees, youth and women in the state of Tripura, on
February 6, recognized Bangladesh and demanded adequate assistance for refugees. [65]
Speaking at a central workshop at Belgharia organized by Calcutta State Transport
Employees Union, in support of the struggle of Bangladesh, Harekrishna Kongar said that the
Indira Gandhi Government was only giving empty words in support of Bangladesh struggle,
through the mass movements this Government should be compelled to recognize independent
Bangladesh and provide the necessary financial help. [66] The former Indian Foreign
Minister Dinesh Singh, under the headline ‘GET WORLD INVOLVED IN
BANGLADESH’, wrote on the question of recognition:
The question of formal recognition of Bangladesh and the timing, if it must be left to the
Government to decide of course, the recognition will give strength to the freedom
fighters without any legal or constitutional barriers. [67]
At a meeting chaired by the Ranaghat Sub-Divisional Coordination Committee, a unanimous
demand was made to the Government of India to grant diplomatic recognition to Bangladesh
immediately. [68] Speaking at a meeting of employees of four banks at India Exchange Place
in front of Union Bank, Workers Party Leader Jyoti Bhattacharya said that the Indian
Government is still silent on the issue of recognizing Bangladesh. Everyone would have to
fight for this recognition. This day’s meeting was organized by Union Bank, Indian Overseas
Bank, United Commercial Bank and Reserve Bank Employees Association on behalf of the
Union. [69]
In an editorial in the daily Jugantar under the headline ‘Recognize Independent Bangladesh’,
it was written: “India cannot sit forever holding millions of refugees in its bosom. The central
Government has to take its own plan for the sake of security and survival. The primary
component of this plan is the diplomatic recognition of independent Bangladesh. An increase
in their fighting power is a must. The refugees will return home only when their victory is
accelerated. Otherwise they will stay back in India. It is true that no pacifist state can easily
use force. Yahya Khan is not relying on New Delhi’s will-reluctance. He has wrapped India
up with the problems of Bangladesh. There are signs of unrest all around. Danger cannot be
avoided if you keep your mouth shut. Make the real solution the reality. Recognize
Independent Bangladesh immediately. Widen the way to the ultimate defeat of Yahya, this
will bring the future peace of East Bengal. Refugees will be motivated to return home.” [70]
On May 21 in Delhi, it was decided from a meeting of I. N. T. U. C., C. I. T. U., A. I. T. U.
C. and U. T. I. U. C. that to demand the recognition of the Government of Bangladesh, the
proclamation should be spread everywhere, meeting and rallies should be held. C. I. T. U.
believes that this united struggle of the Indian Working class will force the Government of
India to recognize Bangladesh. [71] To recognize Bangladesh, Mr. M. C. Chagla made a
demand at a public meeting in Bombay. Speaking as a president he said- “India has
committed the greatest error by not recognizing Bangladesh, history will not forgive
us.” He further said- “If India had recognized Bangladesh, it would have given a deadly
blow to the two nation theory, the vicious basis on which Pakistan was formed.” To this
he added- “If India had recognized Bangladesh, it could have supplied arms to
Bangladesh. According to international law India had every right to recognize
Bangladesh.” He appealed to the Government saying-
In the name of national interest, freedom and democracy, not to hesitate in recognizing
Bangladesh. [72]
In Madras too, there was a storm of criticism of the Central Government’s delay in
recognizing Bangladesh. In the news published regarding this in Time of India, it was
written-
Though Tamil Nadu is now far away from West Bengal which is bearing the full burn
while maintaining the unprecedented influx of refugees from Bangladesh, people here
are also much aroused against the genocide by the Yahya regime. Innumerable
representations are daily pouring into the local daily press by irate leaders who accuse
the Government of India with tardiness in recognizing Bangladesh. This is but one of
the many dozens of published letters addressed daily to the local press by angry readers
on what they felt inaction of the Government of India in not recognizing Bangladesh.
[73]
The resolution adopted by the General Assembly of C. I. T. U. in Coimbatore on June 11-14,
included, among many other things, the issue of recognition. It was written somewhere in the
proposal, the hesitant attitude of the Indian Government to recognize the Government of
Bangladesh, this meeting paid special attention to the reprehensible attitude of the Indian
Government… The working class of India seemed to hold protests and demonstrations to
force the Government of India to recognize the Government of Bangladesh. [74] On June 19,
the Central Trade Unions unanimously demanded the recognition of Bangladesh from the
Government of India. Criticizing the central government, it was said that the Indian
Government was sending ambassadors to the country and abroad to garner support for
Bangladesh’s struggle but was not acknowledging it. In the meeting, Jatin Chakraborty of U.
T. U. C. sharply criticized the Indian Government’s reluctance to recognize Bangladesh. [75]
In Silchar, Assam, the Bangladesh Solidarity Day celebrations were called by the various
trade unions of India, where the employees from various banks, insurance, government and
private offices wore batches demanding recognition of Bangladesh. Addressing a public
meeting at the local Gandhibagh Maidan, Tarapada Bhattacharya, secretary of the
Independent Bangladesh Sahayak Samiti, sharply criticized the Indian Government and
demanded immediate recognition of Bangladesh without further ado. Marxist Communist
leader and president of Kachar District Farmers’ Association, Nurul Huda, said that the
Indian Government should first and foremost recognize and provide arms assistance to the
Bangladesh Government. He remarked that there could be no rational reason to stare at the
faces of the imperialist countries. [76] In an editorial published in Ganasakti newspaper
under the headline ‘On the question of recognition of Bangladesh’, criticized the excuses of
the Indian Government regarding the recognition. It was written in the editorial article-
“What is the Indian Government’s own path? It seems there is no way out for the
Government. And so the Government is retreating. Understanding the plight of refugees is, of
course, a great burden. For so long, the Government leaders have been saying that they will
return to their own country in six months. It is not heard anymore. Because they may have
realized that it is very unlikely, some international aid is also coming. Even the US
government, while providing arms to the Pakistani militants on one hand, is donating some
rice and wheat to the refugees on the other. So even if the burden is heavy, and the plight of
the refugees is exacerbated by the mismanagement, the demand for recognition of
Bangladesh across other countries, there, too, the Prime Minister was able to convince her
party that, war with Pakistan is inevitable if Bangladesh is recognized in a hurry now. In
other words, the question of recognition remained unanswered, why would war with Pakistan
become inevitable if Bangladesh was recognized? This argument of the Congress Leaders
seems to us rather unreasonable. Many countries have recognized the interim revolutionary
Government of South Vietnam. Was there a war with them for that? If the Indian
Government do not send its troops to Bangladesh, then from where the question of war
arises? In fact, the Indian Government is trying to avoid the question of recognition by
showing this fear. Recognition by neighboring India will increase the morale pf the
Bangladesh’s freedom fighters. [77]
Jayaprakash Narayan called on the Prime Minister to take action against Yahya saying-
What should India do? Mr. Narayan made his point in no uncertain terms, I have said
this even before the formation of Bangladesh Government and will again repeat now.
India must recognize the concept of Bangladesh and give it all possible assistance. [78]
‘Everyone agrees to the question of recognition but why is the Government silent?’- In an
article under this headline Professor Samar Guha sharply criticized all the excuses of the
Government of India regarding the question of recognition, India's national public opinion is
almost unanimous on the question of immediate recognition of Bangladesh. In most parts of
India, the legislature, every opposition party, high-ranking lawyers, and countless public
gatherings have demanded immediate recognition of Bangladesh. Apart from the Muslim
League and Majlis-e-Masarwat, every Muslim organization and Muslim members of the state
assembly and parliament have also supported the demand. In the wake of the recent debate in
Parliament over the proposal for immediate recognition of Bangladesh, the Congress
Parliamentary party has been debating for three days in a row, in which most of the speakers
not only demanded recognition but also strongly demanded that tougher measures be taken
against Pakistan. In the two-day debate in parliament, almost every member of the House of
Representatives has endorsed the proposal for immediate recognition, if there was a free vote,
the proposal would have been accepted by a majority of votes. That means almost everyone
across the country and every politician agree. Only the Government is surprisingly silent.
Such a difference between the government of a democratic country and the national public
opinion is extremely inconsistent. The Indian Foreign Minister said that no country in the
world except India is willing to recognize Bangladesh. But Shri Jay Prakash Narayan, who
visited 18 foreign countries in 48 days, said that if India recognizes, then at least four or five
countries in the world will immediately recognize Bangladesh. India’s Moscow mission told
New Delhi, ‘Russia has accepted the existence of Bangladesh as a fact. It is safe to say that
Russia is not opposed to such a political decision, despite the Communist Party of India’s call
for recognition of Bangladesh. Many foreign statesmen have said that India will have to lead
the way on the question of recognizing Bangladesh. The Government of India is not opposed
to the principle of recognizing Bangladesh. However, the Indian Government thinks that
recognizing Bangladesh will cause more harm to them than help.’ In other words, in the
official language, “It will be helpful or not harmful.” Meanwhile the national government and
the entire national party are repeatedly appealing to the world to recognize Bangladesh. What
is in the interest of Bangladesh and what is harmful is the main right and the right of the
Government of Bangladesh- By acknowledging this key statement India must confess that it
is not possible for the Indian Government to recognize Bangladesh for the interest of India.
Although, Indian public opinion thinks that immediate recognition of Bangladesh is in India’s
best interest. The Prime Minister of India has said about Bangladesh, “Right decision will be
taken at the right time.” When will the right time come for this right decision? What is the
right time and right decision controller or determinant or the indicator of the surroundings? If
it is recognized, it will not be impossible for the Government of Bangladesh to form a
guerrilla force of one lakh from among the refugees who have come to India. Recognizing the
Government of Bangladesh will give the opportunity to receive public and direct assistance, it
will also be possible for the Liberation Army to complete the Independence of Bangladesh
and free it from the clutches of the Pak Army. [79]
At a rally in Kalyanpur and Khayai in Agartala, Ganesh Ghosh, one of the heroes of the
Chittagong arsenal looting, said that at present the country of seven and a half crore people is
burning. Hindus and Muslims, men and women are dying there. Millions of refugees came to
this country only to save their lives. But the Indian Government is still not recognizing
Bangladesh ignoring the demands of the people. Therefore, today, as an international
responsibility, the workers, peasants, students, youth and hardworking people have to get the
recognition from the Indira Government through a united and organized mass movement. He
further said, “all the opposition political parties in India and many Legislative assemblies
have unanimously proposed to give immediate recognition and arms assistance to the
Government of Bangladesh. But Indira Gandhi grew up to the demands of the fifty-five crore
Indians. She is not talking about recognition. [80] At a public meeting convened by the
Bangladesh Solidarity and Relief Committee at Farakka Barrage Recreation Hall,
HareKrishna Kongar criticized the Indian Government’s policy towards Bangladesh. At the
same time, he feared that when the Indian Government was introducing all kinds of
repressive policies, including the deployment of armed forces to suppress the democratic
movement in India, it was only hopeful that they would recognize the Bangladesh
government in terms of strengthening the democratic movement in east Bengal.” [81]
At a public meeting organized by the Bangladesh Conference Committee of Bihar state in
Patna, Sarvodaya leader Shri Jay Prakash Narayan appealed to all political parties, labor
organizations and voluntary organizations in the country to forget all differences and
immediately recognize the Awami League Government in Bangladesh. Once Bangladesh is
recognized, it will be easier for the freedom fighters of that country to get adequate weapons
and fight against the invading forces of Yahya Khan. He further said that some time ago
Prime Minister Smt. Indira Gandhi had told him that Bangladesh would be recognized when
the time is right. Now the question is, when will that time come? If the recognition of
Bangladesh is delayed, India’s problems will become more complicated. But it is certain that
Bangladesh will have to be recognized someday or the other. Failure to recognize Bangladesh
now would be a betrayal of our national interests, and would disrupt and endanger peace
throughout South-east Asia. For this if the war is imposed on us, we must fight. At the same
public meeting, Dr. A. K. Mallick, former Vice Chancellor of Chittagong University in
Bangladesh, said, “It is important to remember that the war going on in Bangladesh now is a
war of communalism against democracy. In this situation, if the people of democratic India
take immediate steps to recognize Bangladesh, then the liberation of Bangladesh will be
further accelerated.” [82] The booklet on the war of Independence of Bangladesh published
by the central action committee of Bangladesh, it was written in one place in the resolution
mentioned in the booklet-
Appeals to the Government of India to recognize the provisional Government of
Bangladesh formed in accordance with the verdict of the people, and extend it to all
possible moral and material aid so that favorable conditions are created for the return
of the refugees to Bangladesh. [83]
A student strike and procession on August 3 in Kolkata was held demanding recognition of
Bangladesh. At the end of the procession, a memorandum was issued through the Governor
demanding from the Prime Minister all kinds of assistance and recognition to Bangladesh.
Shri Subhash Chakraborty, General secretary of Left Student Federation, Khhiti Goswami of
P. S. U., Sanjiv Biswas of D. S. O., Bhola Kundu of Students’ Block and many others
addressed the student assembly at Raja Subedh mallick Square on the same day. [84] With 7
political parties (Bengal Congress, S. S. P., P. S. P. (R), C. P. I. (party), Forward Block, S. U.
C. and Gurkha (League)) on behalf of the August Revolution Celebration Committee,
Haridas Mitra said that August 9 of this year will demand the recognition of Bangladesh.
They would demand from the Government of India to recognize the Government of
Bangladesh immediately. [85] The All India council of Mayors unanimously passed a
resolution asking the Government of India to recognize the Government of Bangladesh
immediately. [86] The issue of Bangladesh’s recognition was debated at the Delhi
International Conference. Regarding this it was written in a newspaper report-
Conflicting viewpoints were put forward on the desired ability of the Government of
India regarding the recognition of Bangladesh at the three-day International
Conference, where a suggestion was made to visit a number of foreign countries to
persuade them to recognize Bangladesh, in Delhi. Some participants objected to the
inclusion of the Indian Government in the list. [87]
However, the following day's news item reported-
The International Conference on Bangladesh today called upon all the Governments of
the world to recognize the Bangladesh Government and to terminate all military
assistance to the West Pakistan regime. [88]
The resolution, adopted by the Executive Committee of the Democratic Youth Federation of
India, states that the Government of India has refrained from recognizing the independent
Government of Bangladesh and providing military and moral assistance to the freedom
fighters and the people of Bangladesh under various pretexts. [89] The Government of India
was sharply criticized regarding the recognition of Bangladesh under the headline
‘Procrastination’. It was written that the support which the Prime Minister has garnered from
the leaders of the countries she visited recently and if the support of the Governments of
those countries on the question of the recognition of the Government of Bangladesh is
garnered, its active reflection is not seen in practice yet. The Prime Minister also made a
statement on her recently concluded foreign tour at the Lok Sabha meeting. No matter what
was said in the statement, the Government of India’s own view on the question of the
recognition of the Government of Bangladesh is not yet clear.
The question of the recognition of the Government of Bangladesh has been repeatedly raised
with the Government of India. Whenever this urgent matter has been raised, the Government
of India has said that it is “under consideration” or it “will be recognized in due time”, saying
this it is procrastinating. Recognition by the Government of India before seeking the support
of other countries for the recognition of Bangladesh and its Government could have changed
the international picture. The policy of the Government of India would have also become
consistent to the people abroad. The people of India have come forward against the brutality
of Pakistani militant rule over the people of Bangladesh. Therefore, the main demand of the
people of India at this moment is to recognize the Government of Bangladesh. The President
of India said at a recent meeting of the Citizen’s Council in Kolkata, “the question of the
recognition of the Government of Bangladesh is actively under consideration by the
Government of India.” [90]
The question of recognition of Bangladesh as an independent state was raised at various
private levels from the beginning of March to the end of November. The state legislature also
raised the issue of recognition of Bangladesh at various times. On March 28, 1971, the Uttar
Pradesh Legislative Assembly unanimously requested for the recognition of the provisional
Government of Independent Bangladesh. [91] Food and Dairy Development Minister Mr. K.
K. Maitra was the first to speak at the official level demanding recognition from West
Bengal. According to the PTI sources, it was written in the news published on this regard-
The West Bengal Minister for Food and Dairy Development, Mr. K. K. Maitra today
demanded the immediate recognition of Bangladesh. At the press conference here, the
Minister feared that if India delayed the recognition further and if the present massacre
of the innocent people in Bangladesh went on for long, “the situation in West Bengal
might be aggravated”. It was also written- “He urged the Government of India to
recognize the newly formed Government of Bangladesh without any further delay.” [92]
The West Bengal State Assembly passed a unanimous resolution to recognize Bangladesh.
Raising the proposal, the then Chief Minister Shri Ajay Mukherjee said, “Considering India's
urgent duty towards the death struggle of the people of Bangladesh for national
independence, this Legislative Assembly is demanding the Government of India that the
Sovereign Democratic Republic of Bangladesh and its government must immediately
recognize and provide with all necessary assistance and arms. When men and women in
Bangladesh shedded their blood, the people of West Bengal cannot agree to anything less.”
[93]
Inaugurating the discussion on the proposal, Leader of the Opposition Jyoti Basu said, “We
are all working to get the Government and the Opposition together to accept this proposal.
Because the people of East Pakistan or the people of Bangladesh must know the differences
that we have here, and that’s a terrible difference of opinion. We who are here from the
opposition party, completely disagree with the Congress party and those who have supported
them. However, we all support what has been proposed in this regard with the freedom
struggle of Bangladesh.” He added, “Mrs. Indira Gandhi had said a long time ago when
Bangladesh Government did not exist, that who should I recognize, who should I accept.
Then the government was formed, now such statement will not work.” [94] Speaking on the
proposal, Shri Subodh Banerjee said: “The question arises as to whether the sovereign
democratic republic and its government that has been established in Bangladesh should be
recognized. I think the Government of India should give this recognition immediately. We
don’t need to worry about which country is recognizing this struggle and which country is
not. We need to judge what the Indian Government is doing, if the Indian Government does
not want to recognize or procrastinate, it should be severely criticized and should be forced to
recognize. I would like to remind the friends of the Congress party that the proposal has been
accepted regarding the Government of India is not functioning properly and we are criticizing
it in the proposal. It has been so long, why is the Indian Government not recognizing the
sovereign democratic republic and its Government? Some here have also criticized China. I
think that Indian Government should be criticized instead of China. The Government of India
is accountable to the people of India, and is obliged to recognize the demands of the people of
India. Indians want, the sovereign democratic republic of Bangladesh and its government
should be recognized immediately, why the Indian government is not giving it? What are the
obstacles? International? International law? There is no such obstacle to recognize. A state
can be recognized under international law only if it has territory, population and a
Government. All of these are there in the case of Bangladesh. Why the Indian Government is
not recognizing when it is not even stopped under the international law.” [95] Taking part in
this discussion, Shri. Biswanath Mukherjee said, “The Sovereign Democratic Republic of
Bangladesh and its Government should immediately recognize and provide all necessary
practical assistance including arms. While millions of Bangladeshi men and women are
shedding their blood, the people of West Bengal cannot agree to anything less than this.” At
the same time, he said, “As many people who have come back or are still here, we hear the
request from everyone to give them arms, and recognize the Government of Bangladesh.”
[96] Participating in the debate regarding the recognition of Bangladesh Shri Sushil kumar
Dhara said, “I request the Central government that our path should be followed by other
countries and in order to do that we need to recognize them immediately and convey
whatever is needed at the same time.” [97] Speaking in support of the proposal Shri Radha
Govind Bhishal said, “We urge the Government of India to implement this proposal and to
ensure that they gain international recognition immediately and that this new Government of
Bangladesh gains international diplomatic status. We must make such arrangements. How
long can we continue to do what we are doing? So our goal should be to get the recognition
of the Government of Bangladesh as soon as possible so that all the people of that country
can go back home.” [98] Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Joynal Abedin said, “On the first day
when the demand for recognition was unanimously tabled in this Assembly of Vidhan Sabha,
we all agreed with the proposal brought by our Chief Minister.” At the same time, he said,
“Today, not only help or recognition, but the Government of India should also take action to
win this movement.” [99]
Discussing this proposal, Mohammad Ilyas Raji said, “The struggling people of East Bengal
are seeking for help and sympathy from us, the Government of India. Although we are giving
them some help and sympathy, but if the Indian Government delays in recognizing their state,
then the misery of the people that has happened and is happening, will only increase. That is
why recognition today is an urgent matter for the Government of India. This is the most
important social work.” [100] Speaking on the proposal, Shri Anil Kumar Manna criticized
the Indian Government, saying, “Today we see that the Indian Government is not recognizing
them. Today I will ask the Indira Government why they are still not recognizing the right of
the Bengalis on the other side to live? Today there is no barrier to the international
recognition, , members are also elected for the National Assembly, but why is the Indian
Government still not recognizing them today? This is the question of the Indian people, The
Bengalis and the oppressed people.” He further said, “Today the Indira Government feels that
if we recognize East Bengal, then there is a fear of any other state like China, Russia or
America attacking us, which is the main obstacle for the Indira Government. But they
witnessed that when our country was invaded by China in 1962, and by Pakistan in 1964, it
was proved that the people of India stood up against it. They have thus shown that they are
behind any struggle for self-determination, for which they have given up their strength, their
blood, and all their rights. If any international power, any state invades our India, if we are
united and all nations stand up, then no power will be able to attack us. We are sure about
this. Therefore, I would like to say that in order to protect the rights of the people of East
Bengal, the Government of India must recognize immediately, without staying limited to this
proposal, we must collect public opinion. We have to build a movement against the Indian
Government now. As a result of this movement, the Indian Government and other
international of the Bengali race to self-determination.” [101]
Discussing this proposal, Shri Prayag Mandal said, “I would like to say to the Government
that other than writing this proposal on paper, the Chief Minister, who is going to Delhi,
should tell the Central Government that they have to recognize it.” [102] Criticizing the
stated proposal, Shri Ajit Kumar Gnaguli said, “It has been more than a month and still you
cannot give any recognition, initially it was questioned how to support them. Where is the
Government? Now the Government has been established there. So now it cannot be
questioned. The question may be; we can give it but there are many countries in the world
who are not doing anything. If the Central government is thinking that let the other countries
support it first, then we will support, then it must be understood that they are in a mood to
have some fun.” [103] Mr. Samayum Biswas of Muslim League said, “On behalf of the
Muslim League, I sincerely support the proposal made by the Chief Minister to help the
seven and a half crore oppressed people of Bangladesh and provide all kinds aids to them.
Speaking of which, when we are partners in this government, can the question arise as to
whether to support the Chief Minister who has come up with such proposal. Hence we are
supporting this proposal.” [104] Speaking in support of the proposal, Mr. Dilip Kumar Roy
said, “Referring to the proposal made today to provide arms, I would like to say that we need
to create mass movement and public opinion so that other countries of the world recognize
the independent Bengali Government and help in every way possible and make their struggle
a success.” [105] Speaking on this subject, Mr. Sudhir Chandra Bera said, “You see, before
Bangladesh declared independence, it was an internal affair of Pakistan and we could not
interfere in the international law there. But the moment they formed the government and
declared independence, from that moment the fighting form has changed and if they are
recognized today, there will be a sovereign government and interfering with it would be a
violation of international law. Sadly, today, the big powers, the big ones who could have been
the Big Brothers, did not recognize and we are demanding recognition because we think the
Bangladesh government-
Government of the people, by the people and for the people shall never perish from this
earth. [106]
The emergency meeting of the Chief Ministers of the five Eastern states held at the General
Assembly on May 8 unanimously decided that the unanimous resolution passed in the West
Bengal Legislative Assembly demanding recognition of Bangladesh would be presented to
Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. [107]
Members of the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha played an important role regarding the question
of recognition of Bangladesh. On the next day of the brutal attack on Bangladesh military on
March 25, Samar Guha from Public Socialist Party, Jyoti Basu of the CPI(M) and Indrajit
Gupta of the CPI demanded an immediate cessation from the Government over the Pak
army’s brutal killing of the people of Bangladesh, which lead to a heated argument between
the Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and the members of some of the Opposition parties.
[108] On March 27, the Foreign Minister issued a statement in the Lok Sabha on the recent
developments in Bangladesh. But the official statement (of the ruling Congress Party) failed
to convince most of the opposition party members. And on the same day, some members of
Lok Sabha demanded recognition of Bangladesh. Krishna Menon took part in the debate in
support of recognition saying-
I hope the time will not be far off when this Government will recognize the new
Government setup by the people and not make the mistake as in regard to North
Vietnam and East Germany. (Interruptions) because delay in this matters makes it
established, reasonably established, commands habitual, obedience of the people and is
able to perform its obligations, even under American Law, it ought to be recognized
immediately. [109]
West Bengal Public Socialist party’s Samar Guha, regarding the recognition, said-
I do say that the Government should immediately give recognition to the Independent
Republic of Bangladesh. We have to see what are the conditions that a nation and
people must fulfill to exercise their complete sovereignty and to proclaim their
sovereignty it is to be seen that the Awami League secured 162 Memberships more than
the total majority of the membership there who represented Pakistan National
Assembly. Therefore, if the internationally accepted democratic principles have
meaning, those people of Bangladesh have every right to declare and proclaim
themselves as an independent and sovereign state. They are in physical control of the
land of Bangladesh completely. They are in physical control of civil administration
having total loyalty of the total population there. They have their own Government and
own flag. All conditions fulfilling their sovereignty are present there. Therefore, they
have every right in real democratic sense to declare themselves an independent country
and India has also a right according to the international principles to accept and accord
recognition to that independent state of Bangladesh. This is a delicate matter. I don’t
say that India should jump on East Bengal with her military. Short if military
intervention, short of going against international code and diplomatic relations, India
should go all out to give all possible help to the people of East Bengal and the
revolutionaries there. I would suggest a few things. India should immediately mobilize
world opinion. I would remind the Prime Minister about this. This is the first time the
leaders of Bangladesh have requested India, Ceylon and other Asiatic and other
countries of the world to extend to them all kinds of help which they have declared
openly. Therefore, this is not something against the will of the people of Bangladesh.
The sovereignty of the independent Government of Bangladesh has got to be
recognized. [110]
Rajasthan Parliament Member Doctor. Hariprasad Sharma took part in the debate and spoke
regarding the issue of recognition-
There would be another problem which would be coming up very soon regarding the
question of recognition of the defector Government of East Bengal. I think the
Government should be prepared. We do not want to go into the theoretical discussions
on recognition and the requirements that a nation needs for recognition. It can easily be
recognized that the four basic norms which are to be fulfilled for recognition are there.
The people of East Pakistan have a territory; there is a definite population there; they
have a definite ethnic identity and there is a defector control by the Government, if I
may say so of Mujibur Rahman. Because of the normal restraints on the Government, if
they feel that they should not say too much, it is understandable but I should point out
that if we do not take steps at the proper time, we shall be betraying not only the
interests of our neighbor but we shall also be betraying our own basic, cherished
precepts. [111]
Among the participants of the discussion, S. A. Shamim (Kashmir, non-partisan) opposes the
recognition of Bangladesh. He considered the Liberation war of Bangladesh as separatism.
[112]
The proposal put forward by the Prime Minister in the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha on March
31 on the developments in Bangladesh was unanimously adopted. Although the day before
the resolution was passed, the final draft of the resolution prepared at a meeting of the
opposition with the Prime Minister. Nothing was mentioned in this proposal. However, some
members were in favor of it in the meeting with the Prime Minister. [113] Participating in the
debate in Lok Sabha on the offensive activities of Pakistani troops on the border, Shri Atal
Bihari Vajpayee said, “Now is the time to appeal to you. I have learned that you did not
consider it appropriate to approve our pending proposal for recognition of Bangladesh. I urge
you to reconsider your decision. This is a very serious question, the session expressed a
determination. The Government has failed to behave accordingly. 33 lakh inhabitants of
Bangladesh have come to our country. Pakistan has started launching attacks without any
provocation. I want you to accept my offer to stop my actions and give me a chance to
condemn the government.” He added: “I have an application. You will not give any ruling on
this question which will curtail our right to bring a pending proposal. You must listen to our
pending offer. Which is, ‘implement the resolution adopted by the Lok Sabha on 31 st
March’. We want to discuss the situation that has arisen, we want to discuss the situation
that has arisen due to non-recognition. If not here, where else will the pending proposal
actually come?” [114]
Participating in the debates and proposals of the opposition members regarding the
recognition of Bangladesh in the Indian Legislative Assembly, Public Socialist Party leader
Samar Guha on the one hand criticized the policy of the Government of India and on the
other hand strong spoke in support of the recognition. He said:
All the opposition parties in the parliament except the Muslim League were unanimous
that it is the right time for recognition. “Eminent jurist who have the capacity to go into
international laws about sovereignty, from Mr. Chagla to Mr. Setalvad, have
unanimously said that Government should give immediate recognition to Bangladesh.
At innumerable public meetings people have demanded the immediate recognition of
Bangladesh. A few days ago, when the Bangladesh parliamentary delegation addressee
members of both houses in the central hall, when, they appealed to you to give
immediate recognition to Bangladesh, there was a thundering cheer from all sides, both
from Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha members. What do these facts indicate? It indicates
very largely that the national consensus is in favor of giving immediate recognition too
Bangladesh. But our Government is either isolated from the will of the people, or the
will of the people is isolated from the Government. A big hiatus has developed between
the Government and the people. The Government claims the monopoly of wisdom to
decide right moment for a right decision, whereas all sections of our people have given
the verdict that already the right time has passed, and urged the Government not to
miss the bus again and again. Government wants to wait for the right time.” It means,
we want time. Naturally, as a corollary, it means you also want to give Pakistan this
time.
In this context, he further said-
Immediate recognition should be given to Bangladesh. That is the only way you can
help. There will be no necessity for arms even, but they want this help from you of
recognition. [115]
Taking part in the debate, Sri Krishna Haldar spoke strongly in support of recognition. He
said-
If the Government of India is really interested to solve the refugee problem, it must give
immediate recognition to the Bangladesh Government as it will inspire the refugees to
go back to their homes with confidence… It is the opinion of many people that 55 to 65
lakh refugees have already come to India. In order to solve the refugee problem
completely, the only way is I feel the recognize the provisional Government of
Bangladesh immediately.
He further added-
I would say that immediate recognition may be given to the Bangladesh Government. I
would also appeal to the Socialist countries and Afro-Asian countries to come forward
in recognizing the Government of Bangladesh. I would also appeal to the progressive
forces of the world to assist the freedom fighters in Bangladesh by recognizing an
international brigade as it was done to fight the Fascist forces in Spain.
He kept additional demand-
India claims to be the biggest democracy in the world. In order to justify that the
Government of India should recognize immediately the Government of Bangladesh as
that Government is fighting for the establishment of democracy there. By recognizing
the Government of Bangladesh the Indian Government will set an example before the
nations of the world. I know that because of the pressure of American imperialists the
Government of India is hesitating to give recognition to the Bangladesh Government. I
demand that the provisional Government of Bangladesh be recognized immediately.
This demand has also been made by crores of people in India. So acceptance of my
demand means the acceptance of those peoples’ demand. By giving recognition to the
Bangladesh the Government of India will do justice to people of Bangladesh who are
struggling hard for their independence. With these words I conclude my speech. Thank
You.” [116]
Participating in the discussion on Bangladesh, Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee said, “We want to
help East Bengal. We have unanimously accepted the proposal in the favor- at first we are
late. If the Government had a clear idea and if we had set our own policy on March 25, when
the Pakistani troops were launching atrocities, the situation in Bangladesh might have been
different. We made a mistake. But no matter how late it is, we can still rectify it. I am not
against awakening international public opinion, whatever the case may be, but New Delhi’s
idea needs to be clear. The fate of Bangladesh and refugees from Bangladesh should not be in
Washington, London, Bonn or Moscow, but in New Delhi and New Delhi can write a new
history with courage. Today we have to see if the Government has the capacity to write a new
history.” [117]
Many MPs spoke in favor of the recognition of the proposal that was raised in the Lok Sabha
for the recognition of Bangladesh. Shri. H. M. Patel, speaking on the subject, said-
If recognition of Bangladesh is suggested or proposed here, it can only be a first step: it
can only be a step where we can say that we do recognize the existence of a Government
who is not actually in charge of the territory and who have been driven out of that
territory; that recognition may give us a convenient handle in order to say that we shall
act. But this can only be a prelude, a preliminary step to military action. Unless we have
in mind such determined action, there would be very little point in merely giving
recognition.
He added-
This suggestion that we recognize Bangladesh is and should be the first step, but it
should be accepted as the first step recognizing that a military action is inevitable and
must follow the recognition as quickly as possible. [118]
Shri Indrajit Gupta spoke in support of the proposal made in the Lok Sabha on the
recognition of the Government of Bangladesh. He said-
I want to say, Sir that now after Yahya Khan’s broadcast continued non-recognition of
Bangladesh as a sovereign entity amounts in practice to recognizing the authority of
Yahya Khan over East Pakistan. You can continue not recognizing Bangladesh, but it
means, in effect, before the eyes of the world that you are declaring that the authority of
Islamabad over East Pakistan is recognized by us and will continue to be recognized.
Are you willing to take this odium? I say, all this business of their not having any
territory when their writ runs and so on and so forth, is beside the point.
He further added-
I request him to please declare in this House today that the Government of Bangladesh
which represents the elected will of the people and has been recognized as such morally
by the entire international community should be recognized and you should make it
clear that the authority of military regime over East Pakistan is not recognized by us
any longer and we will not recognize that. After, the way be opened to take such action
as it would enable us to go ahead. [119]
Criticizing the dilemma of the Government of India in recognizing the proposal that was
raised in the Lok Sabha for the recognition of Bangladesh, Prof. Madhu Dandayate said-
So far as the world powers are connected, let us not take the attitude that unless some
world power recognizes Bangladesh, we will not take that step. I can very well
understand the position of our Government. Probably the Government must be
frightened that if no world power comes forward to recognize Bangladesh and only
India does it unilaterally and further if China throws her lot on Pakistan’s side, in the
event of a confrontation with Pakistan, with all the world powers, including America,
remaining aloof in the face of the combination of Pakistan and China, there will be a
great disaster. Perhaps that feeling of fear might be lurking in the mind of the
Government. [120]
Speaking in support of the proposal that was raised in the Lok Sabha for the recognition of
Bangladesh, Shri B. K. Das Chowdhury said-
I would appeal to the Government at least to consider, even in the eyes of the
international law, even in the eyes of the logistic views, or theoretical views, there is no
bar to the immediate recognition of Bangladesh.
In this context he further added-
West Pakistani military wants to place Bangladesh as a colony for several years to
come, it should be the duty of this Government to recognize Bangladesh immediately.
And remember that, while you are committed to give all solidarity, all support to the
cause of Bangladesh Movement, your immediate recognition of Bangladesh will not only
give certain relief but it will be an achievement of the freedom movement. I would
appeal to the Government that it is high time that this Government recognize
Bangladesh. [121]
Speaking in support of the proposal that was raised in the Lok Sabha for the recognition of
Bangladesh, Shri Krishna Menon said-
We are neither for recognition of Bangladesh nor non-intervention like Britain in the Spanish
Civil War, holding the ring for the aggressor. But our policy backs up, helps and abets the
aggressor. Therefore, I appeal to this Government not to be imprisoned by its own folly. That
is to say because they have said repeatedly that they will not give recognition. It is not that
they have said directly that they will not recognize but that “the time has not come or is not
appropriate.” To the Government, time is not by the clock; time is not by the event; then what
is time by? It is only to measure the pace of the drift which appears to be the policy. [122]
Shri Priyaranjan Dasmunsi, while speaking in support of the proposal raised in the Lok Sabha
regarding the recognition of Bangladesh, said-
What is the harm in our recognizing Bangladesh immediately? We should recognize
them immediately. If India still has the courage to stand with the power of Humanity,
let alone the question of international support coming in or not coming in, India should
recognize Bangladesh in spite of all the difficulties, and for this decision, the people of
India would all be responsible. If Government is not able to recognize Bangladesh, they
should categorically come forward and say to the international powers that they are not
able to do so. [123]
Speaking in support of the proposal made in Lok Sabha regarding the recognition of the
Government of Bangladesh, Shri Jambubent Ghote said, “The issue of Bangladesh today has
become an important problem not only of Bangladesh, or of the world, but of India as well.
Bangladesh should be recognized on humanitarian grounds. Pakistani aggression should be
resisted because of humanity, that was the role of our country. In this role the whole country
is united on the question of Bangladesh. In this situation, it is very important for us to observe
what our foreign policy is, and which direction is it taking today. We see that our foreign
policy has reached bankruptcy. Unfortunately, we have to say, we have no friends in the
world today… Far from it, even Nepal too is not our friend today. Not only that, but there are
some forces in our country who too are not in our favor.” [124] Speaking in support of the
proposal raised in Lok Sabha regarding the recognition of Bangladesh, Shri Sashibhushan
said, “If we had not supported the Bangladesh Government, they would not have been able to
last even ten days. If they have faith in anyone, it is this great country because fifty crore
people in this country have sincerely recognized them. No country in the world has ever
received such sincere recognition. Now the Government should be given recognition.” [125]
In the same context, Shri Fulchandra Burma said in favor of giving recognition to the
Government of Bangladesh- “I am sorry to see why our Government is not moving forward
to give recognition to Bangladesh. I am appealing to the Minister that the time has come.
Without any further delay we should move forward to recognize Bangladesh.” [126]
Criticizing the role of the Central Government in giving recognition to the Government of
Bangladesh, Shri Murasoli Maran said-
Everyday this recognition and assistance is delayed, a thousand lives are lost and more
of Bangladesh’s vital assets are destroyed. [127]
Regarding the mentioned subject Prof. S. L. Saksena too commented in the same tone of
criticism-
But in this occasion her indecision and inaction has pained me greatly. She missed the
bus in the 1st week of April. At that time about a million people had been killed from
March 25 to April 1and the entire international press community, who were repelled
from Decca just then, had condemned the killings. If only we had extended recognition
to Bangladesh then and sent our troops on a mission of mercy into that country, all
these subsequent tragedies could have been avoided. [128]
In the same context Shri Satyanarayan said-
I request Sardar Swaran Singh to recognize Bangladesh immediately otherwise you will
be creating so many problems for us. We are going to spend crores of rupees on these
people when we are not in a position to feed our own people. Please consider this matter
at least and recognize Bangladesh. Not only recognize Bangladesh but also send our
army there to rehabilitate the victims of this genocide. [129]
Speaking in support of the proposal made in Lok Sabha regarding the recognition of the
Government of Bangladesh and criticizing the role of the Government, Professor Samar Guha
said-
Our Minister of External Affairs has said that the Government has not taken any
negative attitude in regard to the immediate recognition of Bangladesh. But
unfortunately they have not still indicated the positive attitude towards the question.
[130]
Participating in the debate, Shri Dinesh Chnadra Goswami opposed the proposal. Objecting
to the subject of recognition of Bangladesh, he said-
So before we grant recognition, we must see that the conditions precedent for granting
recognition are present, and if they are not present, which I feel is the case today, then I
consider that the time is not opportune enough to get recognition. Ut we should try to
create conditions so that the requirements may be fulfilled and our effort should be
directed to those things. [131]
Shri Paranb Mukherjee initiated a motion in the Rajya Sabha demanding the recognition of an
independent and sovereign Bangladesh. It was said in this proposal-
That this House urges urges the Government of India to recognize the Sovereign
Democratic Republic of Bangladesh to establish diplomatic relations with the current
session of Parliament. [132]
To support the proposal Mr. Mukherjee said-
Now it is high time for us to think what have we done actually for the recognition of
Bangladesh, for fulfilling our commitment for given effect to the pledges we solemnly
made in the Solidarity Resolution.
He criticized the Government’s delaying attitude towards the recognition and said-
It has been stated that the Government of India will take action at an appropriate time,
they will recognize the Government of Bangladesh at an appropriate time. What is
meant by “appropriate time”? Which is the appropriate time? When will this
appropriate time come? Will it be appropriate time when the 75 million people of
Bangladesh are totally liquidated, when the one crore Hindus living in Bangladesh will
cross over and come to India? When every freedom loving person of Bangladesh, when
every politically-conscious young men of Bangladesh, when every vestige of
intelligentsia of Bangladesh will be totally liquidated? Then and then only will it be the
appropriate time for them to accord recognition to Bangladesh? Mr. Chairman. Sir, is it
not according to the principles of the United Nations, according to the laws established
by the international community, high time for the Government of India to accord
recognition to Bangladesh as a sovereign democratic republic? He further said- I do not
understand why recognition should not be given by us to Bangladesh. It is on
humanitarian grounds that we should accord recognition to them. Is it not the fact that
brutalities, barbarities are being perpetrated on the people of Bangladesh, on the
civilian people of Bangladesh? There are ample reasons why the Government of India
should come forward and accord recognition on humanitarian grounds. [133]
Criticizing the Government regarding the proposal of recognizing Bangladesh, Shri M. C>
Chagla said-
What have we done to support Bangladesh effectively? The only way to support
Bangladesh was to have immediately recognized their Government when it was formed.
I say this with deliberation and with a sense of full responsibility that the failure of the
Government to recognize Bangladesh at that time is the greatest blunder we have
committed. I say history will never forgive us for this.
Regarding this he added-
I will say about the reaction of the world. The resolution says that we should recognize
Bangladesh before the end of the session. I say: ‘Recognize it now, this minute. It is late,
it is very late. [134]
However, taking part in the proposal, Shri Bipinpal Das claimed that all decisions should be
made by the Government. He said-
It is for the Government to decide, it is for them to judge the circumstances, examine
the circumstances, and then decide, at what point of time they want to recognize the
Government of Bangladesh, I repeat that while the policy of helping the Mukti Fouj to
continue their war of Liberation must be continued, on the question of recognition of
Bangladesh, the entire responsibility lies with the Government and therefore we should
leave the matter to the desertion of the Government so far as the choice of the time is
concerned. [134]
Shri Bramhananda Panda supported this statement. Regarding this proposal raised in the
Rajya Sabha regarding the recognition of Bangladesh, expressing anger against the
Government, Shri Biju Patnaik said-
In spite of the resolution passed in this House, in spite of the demand of the situation, in
spite of the fact that every day’s delay is reducing its prestige to dust, This Government
had done nothing. And the Foreign Minister found out during his world trip that for
whatever happened he got only sympathy, little crumbs; whereas Pakistan has got
armaments and support. I say this and I wish to go and record: I shall feel proud to lie
prostrate in this House if my prophecy is wrong- that this Government shall not
recognize Bangladesh tomorrow during this session or even during the next session of
this House. I may be bold to say so because I know that their mind functions in a
torturous way, that there is no leadership to execute a war if a war comes. [136]
Opposition leader in the Rajya Sabha Shri M. S. Gurupadaswamy said in support of the
proposal and in favor of recognition-
The purpose of this resolution is very clear. The resolution says that we should accord
recognition within a short time. And, Sir the time is already late and time is our enemy.
We have already missed the opportunity, the occasion, when we had to recognize
Bangladesh. I know there is an amendment from a friend on the other side. The
amendment says that the Government should recognize Bangladesh at the appropriate
moment. When is the appropriate moment coming? I do not know, Sir, even the
Government is saying that, when is it coming? Sir, may I tell him that the appropriate
moment has already passed and it will never come.
He said more with regret-
Yes, perhaps, after the death of Bangladesh they will recognize and will give
recognition, recognition in the sense that we will remember that once upon a time there
was a Bangladesh Movement and the people of Bangladesh rose in revolt against the
atrocities of the Pakistani army and they died… heroically, as my friend put it, and we
would erect a memorial or write on the tomb of Bangladesh. [137]
Mr. Sundar Singh Bhandari supported the demand of the Government of Bangladesh for
recognition and said- “If we want to liberate our country from the clutches of the refugees
today then there is no alternative but to recognize Bangladesh. They want it on their own, we
are not initiating it from our side. This is what the Awami League in Bangladesh is saying,
who got about 98%from the people in Bangladesh in the elections… They have appealed to
recognize them, to help them. We can gain their alliance by recognizing them and stop the
history of genocide there itself.” He added, “It must be mentioned now and clearly, so that
there is no room to back down. Sir said that the proposal must be recognized. We want
another amendment that along with recognition they should also be provided military
assistance.” [138]
In the same context, Shri Shilbhadra Yaji said- “Therefore I would like to simply tell the
Government that, it may or may not declare the recognition of Bangladesh but it must
announce that it will help them.” [139]
Supporting the recognition of the Government of Bangladesh, Shri S. G. Sardesai said-
I am raising this question from the extremely pragmatic, practical and immediate point
of view of what must be done here and now. Recognize it. It has been said very correctly
that this is to help them but the fact is, if you want to help them more effectively, you
have to recognize that Government otherwise you have to go about it in a stealthy and
clandestine fashion. The whole world knows it. Do it more effectively. [140]
In the same context, Shri Sasankasekar Sanyal said-
My humble submission is that we must recognize the Government of Bangladesh
immediately, although there has been considerable delay to that effect. As one has said
“Delayed is denied” but I will say, “Better late than never”. So we should give
immediate recognition to the Government of Bangladesh. It will enable us to send the
demoralized refugees back to their homeland. It may save us from further influx of
refugees to our country. [141]
Supporting the Government’s attitude towards the recognition of Bangladesh, Shri Sitaram
Kesari said- “Everyone in our country wants the recognition of Bangladesh, I also want it but
the time must be appropriate for recognition. There are many cases and may other things that
need to be looked at before the acknowledgement. How many states are there that are ready
to recognize, how many people are there to do so.” [142] Talking about the recognition
proposal of the government of Bangladesh, Shri Rajnarayan said- “It is our mistake not to
recognize Bangladesh, I am sure. I am more convinced that the longer the delay is in
recognition; the newer problems will arise for the Indians.” [143] He slammed the
Government’s erratic attitude, saying, “But the Indian Government is saying now is not the
right time, be patient, I will recognize when the time is right. The Indian Government is still
wandering when to recognize and when not. Where village after village has been completely
destroyed, where there is no crop left, where there is no food for the people, in such a
scenario the statement of the Government of India is that the time is not right to recognize
yet… As long as the Government will have such wisdom, until then the right time will never
come. Hence to fix the reasoning power of the Government I will appeal to the people of
India to compel the Indian Government so that the Independent Bangladesh can be
recognized and receive all sorts of aids and all the others may come forward to help them as
well.” [144]
The role of the political parties is very important regarding the recognition of Bangladesh. In
fact, the issue of recognition in case of any problem related to Bangladesh was brought to the
fore by the political parties. Opposition parties, including the Rajya Sabha and Lok Sabha,
have considered the issue of recognizing or not recognizing related to the Liberation war of
Bangladesh. Some political parties have mentioned non-recognition of Bangladesh as the
main problem. There was a consensus among all the opposition parties in favor of
recognition. Although few political parties took the position opposing this notion.
Traditionally, the demand was first raised by the united left of West Bengal to the
Government of India regarding the recognition of Bangladesh. A statement issued by the
United Left Front on March 27 said that the Indian Government should immediately
recognize Bangladesh. [145] However, on the same day, Pranab Mukherjee, General
Secretary of the Bengal Congress and an MOP, sent a telegram to the Prime Minister
requesting recognition of independent Bangladesh. RSP-General Secretary and MP Tridip
Chowdhury sent a telegram to the President and Prime Minister requesting immediate
diplomatic recognition of Bangladesh.
S. S. P. joint secretary Shri S. Venkatram had demanded the Government of India to
recognize Bangladesh. [146] On the same day, at a public meeting held at the University
Institute Hall at the invitation of Jana Sangha, the chairman of the meeting, Professor
Haripada Bharati made a strong speech and demanded recognition of Bangladesh. At the
initiative of the Bengal National Party, a meeting of eminent citizens at the Mahabadi Society
Hall demanded the recognition of an independent Bangladesh.
At the call of the United Left Front, a resolution was passed demanding the recognition of
Bangladesh to millions of people. The resolution said, among other things, that verbal support
alone would not benefit the people. The resolution therefore called for real assistance and for
immediate recognition of the Sovereign Independent Republic of Bangladesh by the
Government of India. Speaking at the meeting, Shri Jyoti Basu demanded immediate
recognition of the Provisional Government of Independent Bangladesh. Among the other
speakers at the meeting were Sudhin Kumar, Jyoti Bhattacharya, Sukumar Roy, Ram
Chatterjee, Nepal Bhattacharya, Harekrishna Kongar and others. [148] It may be recalled that
on March 29, when Prime Minister Indira Gandhi convened a discussion meeting with the
leaders of the opposition to discuss the current situation in Pakistan, there too many from the
opposition demanded recognition of the Provisional Government. [149] The Left Front, the
12th July Committee and the State Struggle committee have demanded that the Provisional
Governemnt of Bangladesh should be recognized by the Indian Government and the border
should be opened so that the people of this state can stand by the liberated state on the other
side with arms, medicines, clothes, food, etc. Pramod Dasgupta, secretary of the West Bengal
State Committee of the Communist Party of India-Marxist Communist Party, called on the
people to carry out the General Strike called by the state. [150] Speaking at a rally at Tala
Park in North Kolkata, Marxist Communist Party Leader Jyoti Basu demanded immediate
recognition of Bangladesh. He added, for this we have to organize the movement and put
pressure on the Indian Government. This meeting was chaired by Lakshmi Sen. [151]
The Central Committee of the Marxist Communist Party of India also proposed recognition
of Bangladesh. At one point in the resolution, it was written that an independent Bangladesh
should be recognized immediately and all possible assistance should be given to it so that it
could repel the military attack and defeat it. At the same time, the Central Committee called
for a massive campaign for the Government of India to recognize the Provisional
Government of Bangladesh. At the same time, The Central Committee demanded that the
Government should recognize the provisional government of Independent Bangladesh at this
very moment. [153] Speaking at a large rally in Pandua, Saroj Mukherjee criticized the
government, saying- “Why can’t Congress leaders like Vijay Singh Nahar make the leader of
their own organization Indira Gandhi recognize Bangladesh? That is their Government in
Delhi. What is the meaning of flaunting such proposal? There is so much bloodshed in East
Bengal and here the Congress Leaders are sitting idle and making big statements? Yet they
are not sending weapons. Why this drama? They are the Congress, they are the Government,
yet no help is being given to them, they want an explanation.” [154] Marxist Communist
Party Leader Jyoti Basu, while addressing a public meeting in New Delhi, said that the
Government of Bangladesh must be immediately recognized and must be provided with all
necessary assistance including arms. If the Indian Government does not take this step, there
will be a serious backlash in West Bengal. This meeting was organized by the local unit of
the Marxist Communist Party. [155] National Awami Party Leader Maulana Abdul Hamid
Khan Bhasani in a petition to the head of states of different countries of the world said:
Genocide must be stopped and Bangladesh must be recognized. Bhasani also sent telegrams
to Chinese Chairman Mao Zedong and US President Nixon. Bhasani’s plea states that this
heroic struggle of Bangladesh in 1971 was against the tyranny, rule and deprivation of the
Independence of Bengal. [156] Communist leader Pramad Dasgupta’s statement on
Bangladesh at the Regional Committee meeting of the Marxist Communist Party was very
clear and important. Speaking on the issue, he criticized India and other countries of the
world saying that the Government of Bangladesh needs to be recognized now but before
giving this recognition, many countries including India, political and economic grounds are
being reckoned by America, Russia, China, England etc. because they have lent crores of
rupees to Yahya’s Pakistan and if the Government of Bangladesh is recognized, there will be
no possibility left of getting the money back. And it may no longer be possible to do further
business with Pakistan. Pakistan’s market will be lost from those countries, so there will be a
lot of damage. India is also calculating the profit and loss on the question of recognition.
Bangladeshi jute is world famous and the owners of the Bangladeshi jute mills make of profit
of crores of rupees by selling jute. The owners of Indian jute mills have to compete with the
Bangladeshi jute in the world market, but in this war, the jute mills have been destroyed by
the military. [157] Speaking at a public meeting organized by the Delhi State Committee on
April 18, to explain the situation in Bangladesh, Marxist Communist Party leader Jyoti Basu
questioned the sincerity of the Indian Government in supporting Bangladesh. In the meeting
he said, “The Government which is suppressing democracy at home, how can the same
Government stand up for democracy outside?” He added that the Government should
immediately recognize Bangladesh and take all the inevitable diplomatic risks as a result.
[158] The statement made by the President of the West Bengal Public Society on Bangladesh
was published in Statesman newspaper, in which it was written-
The President of West Bengal Jana Sangha Mr. Haripada Bharati demanded that India
should not only recognize Bangladesh as an independent sovereign republic but should
also ask Pakistan for a “chunk of land” along the Eastern border to lodge the refugees
who were pouring into India from Bangladesh every day in a large number. [159]
On May 10, the Punjab State Council of the Communist Party demanded the Government of
India to immediately recognize the Government of Bangladesh and provide all kinds of
assistance, including arms. It may be mentioned that on May 7, the Prime Minister Indira
Gandhi met with the leaders of the opposition parties on Bangladesh. K. Gaepalan demanded
that the Government of Bangladesh should be given recognition immediately. He further said
that it is not right for us to wait for America or the Soviet Union to accept Bangladesh. [160]
Fani Barao, secretary of the Assam State Council of the Communist Party of India, demanded
immediate recognition for the Bangladesh Government. [161] At the call of the National
Assembly of the Communist Party of India, ‘Bangladesh Day’ was celebrated on May 15 all
over India for the purpose for the purpose of providing overall support to the liberation war of
Bangladesh. Speaking at a rally in Kolkata as part of the program, Professor Hirendranath
Mukherjee said it was not possible to provide comprehensive assistance without full
recognition of the independence and sovereignty of the Bangladesh Government. [162] The
politburo meeting of the Marxist Communist Party of India, which was held in Coimbatore
from 15-19 June, contained the party’s clear views and perspectives on Bangladesh among
the resolutions adopted on Bangladesh. The Government of India has backtracked on the
question of recognition, despite the fact that the proposal melts away the sympathy for the
struggle of the people of Bangladesh and promises to consider the question of recognition of
the Provisional Government of Bangladesh. And now is condemning finding a political
solution. Apparently the Indian Government has done in under the pressure of the US and
some other quarters. This failure to recognize the caretaker Government and provide all kinds
of assistance is severely damaging the struggle of the people of Bangladesh. And a s a result,
over 50 lakh people from Bangladesh have taken shelter in India. This huge influx of
refugees has created a huge problem for India, especially for the border states like West
Bengal, Tripura, Assam and Meghalaya. Due to its failure to recognize and assist
Bangladesh, the Government of India is therefore responsible for this situation. [163]
The Marxist Communist Party also adopted a resolution from the Politburo criticizing the
center’s delay in recognizing Bangladesh. It was said in the proposal that the failure to
provide all kinds of material assistance including recognition to the Provisional government
is severely hampering the struggle of the people of Bangladesh and as a result more than five
million Bangladeshis have been forced to take refuge in India as refugees. [164] In addition, a
statement from the two-day session of the West Bengal State Council of the Communist Party
of India convened on June 16 and 17 criticized the Government of India for not recognizing
the Government of Bangladesh and demanded immediate recognition. At the same time, the
party called on all its branches to form a massive movement demanding recognition of
Bangladesh. [165] The resolution adopted at the meeting of the Politburo of the Marxist
Communist Party held in Delhi on July 23-26 demanded immediate recognition of the
independent Bangladesh Government and full support to the Indian Government to assist the
Liberation Army in repelling Yahya's army. [166] Speaking at a public meeting at the Manik
Bhandar ground in Tripura at the invitation of the Communist Party of India (Marxist)
Ganesh Ghosh strongly condemned the cynical attitude of the Government of India regarding
the question of recognition. He said, why is the Indian Government not recognizing
Bangladesh despite the demands of all, regardless of party affiliation? Fear of what? Who
said that you have to fight if you recognize it? Recognition strengthens the morale of freedom
fighters. [167]
Atal Bihari Vajpayee, president of Jana Sangha, complained that the Prime Minister was
disregarding the promises made by the Parliament on the Bangladesh issue and that there
should not be any further delay regarding the recognition of Bangladesh- After the
recognition, Bangladesh will have to be provided with all kinds of aids including military aid.
He said that Mrs. Gandhi was not recognizing Bangladesh mainly under the pressure of the
super powers. As a result of recognition, he ruled out the possibility of war with Pakistan.
[168] The pamphlet, which contained a statement from the Socialist Workers Party of India
on Bangladesh, it was written in one place to highlight the party’s statement on recognition-
“New Delhi did not recognize the Bangladesh Government. Their main job is to beg for help
for the refugees in the court of the world. The imperialist powers, especially the United States
and Britain, who have invested heavily in the two parts of Pakistan, to calm their conscience
are sending some medicines to the refugees. Meanwhile, China's Mao bureaucracy is openly
supporting the Yahya’s government, and the Soviet bureaucracy has fulfilled its obligation by
verbally expressing sympathy to the people of Bangladesh. The delegation of the Communist
Party of East Bengal which went to Moscow for the 24th Conference of the Soviet
Communist Party, they returned back with deep despair. Soviet leaders did not see any
curiosity about Bangladesh among the Soviet leaders. The delegation's view was that Soviet
leaders were not prepared to do anything other than cooperate with the United States for the
resettlement of refugees.” [169] Satyagraha organized by Jana Sangha demanding recognition
of Bangladesh took the form of two protests in New Delhi. A protest was expressed in front
of the US embassy. Another protest in front of the agricultural building. [170] It is known
from the editorial published on August 13 under the headline ‘Various languages of protest’
about the Satyagraha Movement that in addition to the placards or the posters, the supporters
of Jana Sangha wrote on the skin of their backs with colors, demanding the recognition of
Bangladesh. [171] In a resolution adopted at a conference at Jamiat-ul-Ulema in Calcutta,
prime Minister India Gandhi was requested to recognize Bangladesh immediately. [172]
Chairman of the Gujarat Independent Party, H. M. Patel said on September 2 that the only
solution to the Bangladesh problem was war with Pakistan. So it is not possible to avoid war
by delaying the recognition of Bangladesh. [173]
The meeting of the National Working Committee of the Communist Party of India was held
on 21 August in Delhi, while writing a report on the same it was written in Hindustan
Standard-
The National Council reiterated its demand for the recognition of the Government of
Bangladesh and rendering of all necessary help to the freedom fighters. It also appealed
to the people of West Pakistan to stand by the people of Bangladesh who were fighting
the common enemy.
The resolution adopted in the meeting of the Central committee of the Marxist Communist
Party held in Bangalore from 26-29 August said that the Government failed in giving
recognition to the Government of Bangladesh as well as in providing all kinds of help to the
struggling people there… There is no excuse at all for delaying the recognition by the
Government of India without its own secret motives and calculations. The people of entire
India and all the political parties have supported the struggle of Bangladesh. All the
democratic parties have made this demand in one voice. Such a unanimous support for a
move that this government has announced will seldom be found in the fate of any
government, but it was not recognized and the struggling people are getting nothing but
words of mere sympathy and hope. The proposal further said that the Indo-Soviet agreement
was expected to help to overcome all doubts and expedite recognition by the Bangladesh
Movement. The Central Committee noted that the joint declaration of the Foreign Ministers
of India and the Soviet Union called for a political solution to the “situation of Bangladesh in
the interest of the people of Pakistan as a whole” and raised some concerns as it sought to
avoid the question of Bangladesh’s recognition. The resolution further stated that the Central
Committee was adamant that 80 lakhs refugees had already sought refuge in India due to the
wastage of time in recognizing Bangladesh’s freedom struggle. It is imperative for India not
only to provide all kinds of relief and care to these refugees, but also to do something so that
the independent Bengal can win and the refugees can return to the to their country… The
Central Committee is appealing to all democratic parties and organizations: Unite all your
forces and demand in unison with the Government of India- Immediate recognition of
Bangladesh and all possible help to the people of Bangladesh… The Central Committee calls
upon all the party units and members: Continue the struggle to unite all the democratic forces
of the country in support of the struggle of Bangladesh, and enforce the Government of India
who is not willing to immediately recognize the Government of Bangladesh and take the
necessary help in the struggle against Yahya Khan’s reign of terror. [175]
In the pamphlet published by the West Bengal Jamiat-ul-Ulema in support of Bangladesh, it
was written in the adopted resolution that firstly, they supported the struggle of Bangladesh.
Secondly, expressing hatred to the fascist approach of the Islamabad cycle. Third, demanding
the release of Mujibur and at the same time, appealing to the world, the trial of the Islamabad
military cycle, and four, expressing the hope that the Government of India will recognize in
time the Republic of Bangladesh. [176] President of People’s Union Atal Vihari Vajpayee
told reporters in Delhi that we want an independent sovereign, the establishment of
Bangladesh, and until that happens, it is pointless to talk about the return of refugees. He
immediately demanded the recognition of Bangladesh. [177]
The statement issued by the Marxist Communist Party of India under the headline
'Warning against treason' reads: "It seemed that the Indo-Soviet alliance agreement would
help the government overcome its hesitation on the issue of recognition of the Bangladesh
government. But the condition has changed. It is not at all accidental when, while delivering a
speech before the UNO, Indian Foreign Minister Saran Singh did not support Bangladesh's
demand for independence, He did not even acknowledge the existence of Bangladesh. In one
voice, India's democratic movement has demanded the recognition of the Bangladesh
government. There is no doubt that the people of Bangladesh will decide their own future. At
the same time, it is the duty of the democratic movement in India to help them in their
movement and in achieving their goals. It is the duty of a government that identifies itself as
progressive to support any struggle against any manifestation of the new colonies. If it breaks
from the previous situation, the democratic movement in India will not sew it. He also
demanded immediate recognition from the Bangladesh government. We have to provide all
kinds of help to the people struggling in Bangladesh. The people of Bangladesh are warning
the people about the danger of any attempt to resolve the issue through its successful
sacrifice. All sections of the democratic force are urged to be vigilant against such
possibilities. [178]
The central committee of the People’s committee complained that the role of the central
government in recognizing Bangladesh was flexible. [179] The Central Committee of the
Marxist Communist Party of India also convened a meeting in Calcutta on November 3rd and
8th to re-accept the Bangladesh question, it was written- "The Government of India has not
given full recognition and full support to the Government of Bangladesh, It was further
written that the Central Committee is therefore calling on all democratic parties and
individuals, They should unite in support of the struggle of the people of Bangladesh and
demand recognition of Bangladesh from the government. Demanding that the independent
government be recognized immediately, he said, now is the best time to liberate the
motherland of Pak-occupied Bangladesh by inflicting heavy blows on the occupying forces.
[181] On 3rd December 1971, late at night, a state of emergency was declared in India in the
wake of Pakistan declaring direct war against India. The next day, Jyoti Basu, a member of
the Marxist Communist Party of India, said: "Our country and our people need to be
protected against the backdrop of a massive attack by Pakistan's military and our people have
to be organized for this. The people need to build maximum unity, and for that the
government must have confidence in the people. The challenge of aggression must be
extended to protect the democratic rights of the people. The government of Bangladesh must
have recognized and support those who have fought for independence and democracy.” [182]
In fact, in the context of the recognition of Bangladesh, all the political parties in India
demanded immediate recognition, members of the ruling Congress party in the early stages of
the Liberation War also took a stand in favor of immediate recognition in the Lok Sabha
debate. But gradually government party members expressed solidarity with the government's
position and withdrew from the demand for 'immediate' recognition. They accept the issue of
recognition as a full-fledged government relative. There was also the politics of mercenary
dissent in the context of recognizing the government of Bangladesh. MP Professor Samar
Guha said, ‘Everyone agrees on the question of recognition of Bangladesh, but why is the
government silent? Wrote in one place in the article titled- With the exception of the Muslim
League and Majlis-e-Masarabat, every Muslim organization and Muslim members of the
state legislature and parliament support this demand. [183] At a meeting of opposition leaders
with Prime Minister Indira Gandhi on the issue of recognition, the Maharaja of Bikaner Dr.
Karan Singh said, “Bangladesh's liberation movement is actually a revolt of Bengalis. What
would the government do if such a thing had occurred in India? We also need to think about
Kashmir.” On the other hand, the leader of the Muslim League, Mohammad Ismail, said, “It
would not be right to do anything that would escalate tensions or create a crisis between India
and Pakistan. Recognition of Bangladesh could lead to such a crisis.” [184]
Incidentally, the West Bengal Legislative Assembly unanimously accepted the proposal
to recognize Bangladesh, there Samain Biswas, MLA of the Muslim League, supported it.
[185] In the context of this self-contradictory position of the Muslim League, the editorial
published under the headline 'Lack of Honesty' wrote: On 7th May at New Delhi, India’s
Prime Minister Indira Gandhi held a joint meeting with the leaders of opposition to discuss
about the present situation of Bangladesh. At this meeting, the ruling Congress leader and
Prime Minister Indira Gandhi disagreed with the recognition of the Sovereign Democratic
Republic of Bangladesh. The Maharaja of Bikaner, Karan Singh, also attended the meeting
and opposed the demand for immediate recognition of Bangladesh. This is what Muslim
League leader Mohammad Ismail said and what he meant, attending the same meeting: "It
would not be right to do anything that would escalate tensions or create a crisis between India
and Pakistan. Recognition of Bangladesh could lead to such a crisis. " The right-wing
communists are running the government with the support of the ruling Congress in Kerala,
and, in response to West Bengal, the Muslim League, one of the partners in the coaliation
government. From the above statement of the All India Leader of this Muslim League, there
is no difficulty in understanding the policy of the Muslim League about "Bangladesh". The
Muslim League has not taken a clear stand against the unimaginable genocidal campaign of
"Bangladesh" led by Pakistan's military ruler Yahya Khan. Even Yahya is trying to use the
Muslim League as his puppet to keep Bangladesh in check, but Muslim League leaders from
all over India did not protest. The question of who is benefiting from this silence and
ambiguity of the Muslim League has come to the fore today. The Government of India
recognized Bangladesh in the West Bengal Legislative Assembly on 7th May and the
Members of the Legislative Assembly raises legitimate questions about the role of unanimous
Muslim League in all forms of aid, including arms. Without answering all these questions,
the speakers of the Muslim League in the assembly said, it has nothing to do with the
statement of their all-India leader Ismail. In the interest of ministers to stay on the mat for
fear of public opinion and after all the splashes, the Congress-Muslim League, the Muslim
League's Minister of State in the cabinet, Samayun Biswas said: "We support the Bangladesh
movement with one mind and one soul and recognize this proposal. The Muslim League of
India has long ago issued a statement in support of Bangladesh”. Leader of the Muslim
League, previously in a meeting convened by the Prime Minister while discussing about
recognition of independent Bangladesh said “crisis could erupt”, there is a lot of difference
between that statement and Samayun Biswas’s statement in the Assembly. Is this difference
to keep the Congress-Muslim League cabinet in West Bengal alive in any way? The lack of
honesty in their statements is obvious. The West Bengal Congress and the Muslim League
have said a lot to confuse outside public opinion, there is not so much sincerity in it. In
response, these geniuses resorted to deception. [186] Kattur's resilient swing Jana Sangh,
although in favor of recognition but there is a clash between Atal Bihari Bajpayie and
Golawalakar, head of the Radical Hindu Fundamentalist Wing RSS. Golawalakar was against
recognizing Bangladesh. According to him, if Bangladesh becomes independent, 'extremists'
will take advantage. Until March-December at any Lok Sabha debate, Muslim members did
not participate in most of the discussions regarding Bangladesh. Although some have
opposed. However, the Muslim League did not agree with any other political party in India,
but with the ruling party Congress. [187]
The different tones of the Indian government's statement on the question of recognizing
Bangladesh as an independent state was observed. India's first reaction to the events in
Bangladesh was on March 27, although it was found in the speech of the Prime Minister in
the Rajya Sabha and Lok Sabha, the issue of recognition was not mentioned anywhere by the
government officially. From the information, statements are available from the Government
that on May 7, when the Prime Minister, Mrs. Indira Gandhi, had a long discussion with the
leaders of the opposition parties in Parliament on the issue of recognizing the Government of
Bangladesh. At the meeting, almost everyone demanded immediate recognition of the
Bangladesh Government (except Maharaj of Bikanir Dr. Karan Singh and Leader of Muslim
League Mohammad Ismail), after listening to everyone, the Prime Minister sort of said, India
will fully support the liberation movement of Bangladesh but giving diplomatic recognition
to Bangladesh now would be against the interests of this country. Though there is a lot of
sympathy for the people of Bangladesh all over the world, the thoughts about recognition are
still under consideration. She also said, if not recognized now, India will give full support to
the Liberation war of Bangladesh. [188] The Indian Government was not prepared to take the
risk regarding the question of recognition. The Prime Minister's statement on the matter was
published in a newspaper called 'Daily Stateman', under the headline ‘No recognition at
wrong time: PM stress on Refugee Relief Problems:’ –
The Prime Minister, Mrs. Indira Gandhi, made it clear at a brief meeting with
reporters at Dum Dum airport that the much talked issue of giving recognition to the
Bangladesh Government was not as much as an immediate problem with the Union
Government as one might think. She said that the main consideration was whether such
recognition by the Union Government would help the Bangladesh people. “I think it will
not help them much and recognition should not be given at a wrong time,”
It was also written in the news-
The Prime Minister was apparently annoyed when a reporter asked her if she was
waiting for some other countries to recognize the Bangladesh Government. She said
such questions had been put to her several times before. She had always maintained
that India had an independent policy and did not depend on them in formulating her
stand on various issues. [189]
The statement of the Leader of the Opposition on the question of recognition of Bangladesh
in the Rajya Sabha was explained by the Foreign Minister of North India-
Our position in a nutshell is that the situation does continue to be fluid. We continue to
give out thought to this aspect from time to time. We are constantly in touch with the
situation and there is no fixed position in this regard. And if at any time we feel that it is
in the interest of peace, it is our national interest and it also helps the people who are
fighting for their freedom, we will not hesitate to take the step even in regard to
recognition. But this is a matter in which we have to take all aspects into consideration
and as soon as the Government feels that a situation has been reached and a state has
been reached when we should formally recognize the Government, we will not hesitate
to do that. [190]
He warned opposition leaders and said-
We have also weighted the repercussions of it carefully on our relations with West
Pakistan as well because we have a long border with them and, if we can find a part of
another country which is accepted by the United Nations as one whole country because
it is quite obvious that country, whose part is not recognised as a sovereign, independent
country, will react. This should be quite obvious to us and it need not to be spelled out
by me. All these considerations cannot be brushed aside lightly, however strongly one
might feel at an emotional level on an issue of this nature. I will not get deep into this
matter. I will not like to repeat what we have already said on this matter about which
we spent a lot of time thinking a great deal about it and if at any stage we feel that a step
in the form of formal recognition is necessary, we will not hesitate to take that step.
[191]
While acknowledging the statement made by the Prime Minister of India Mrs. Indira Gandhi
said regarding the refugees from Bangladesh-
The word ‘recognition’ has echoed from every side, as recognition by itself could not
solve the many difficulties which confront the people of Bangladesh or the many
difficulties which our country faces specially our states on the border, that is West
Bengal, Assam, Tripura and Meghalaya. We have given deep and anxious thought to all
aspects to this question. It is, as my colleague has said, constantly under review. We are
not waiting to see what other countries will do in the matter. Whatever decision we take
in this or other issues is guided by our own independent assessment of the situation and
how our interest in the broadest sense are served. [192]
From the statements of the Foreign Minister and Prime Minister in the Rajya Sabha and Lok
Sabha, respectively, it was observed that till the end of May, the Government of India alone
was not willing to take any international risk by recognizing Bangladesh as an Independent
state.
During the discussion on the proposal to recognize Bangladesh in the Lok Sabha of India on
July 2, many members of Lok Sabha spoke strongly in favour of recognition. But taking part
in the talks, Foreign Minister Sharan Singh was adamant in his official statements in the past.
He said-
I would like to say that at the appropriate time if we find it necessary to recognize, we
will certainly recognize Bangladesh. So at the present stage, I would appeal to the
Hon’ble Members that some new factors have also been introduced and we have to
review our attitude in view of the completely negative statement that has been made by
President Yahya Khan… It will not be proper to hustle us to take a view. When we say
that we are not opposed to recognition it will not be quite proper for those who feel way
strongly about our going ahead now and hustle us with the recognition. They should
realise that this is something upon which we do not take a negative attitude. [193]
Taking part in the debate he added-
I want to say very clearly that at present the stand of the Government is my personal
stand. The conditions are not, at the moment, either proper or wise for granting
recognition. We will keep this matter under review and we will take a decision when the
time is appropriate. [194]
Answering a question of Shri Krishna Menon, he said-
I think I made the position quite clear and that is the Government’s position, that we
are not opposed to recognition; therefore, on this substantive question there is no
difference. The difference is the timing of it, when it should be done. So far as the
question of recognition is concerned, it is not a question of slogan, what I said is the
difference is that of the timing when the circumstances are ripe for it. [195]
The speech given by Indira Gandhi addressing the public meeting at India Gate in New Delhi
regarding the Issue of Bangladesh, the Government’s attitude towards recognition gets
reflected. She said in the public meeting-
We have never said that we shall not recognize Bangladesh. But the Government would
take steps only after carefully studying all aspects of the question. It was to be assessed
if such a step would help to solve the Bangladesh crisis and strengthen our own nation.
This would be the test of our decision. Recognition by itself would not be an act of great
bravery. We know that such a decision would be greeted by our people. But we have to
think how it will affect the people living in want and misery not only in our land but in
Bangladesh as well. I can assure you that Government will carry out the promises
made. Government will always take steps as will benefit crores of our own people and
those of Bangladesh. [196]
The Government of India achieved significant success on the way of gaining recognition by
inaugurating the Bangladesh Mission in New Delhi on August 30. Significant aspect of the
inauguration of this mission is that Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, while inspecting the
refugee camps in Cooch Bihar, announced on August 31that-
India has virtually recognized the Bangladesh diplomatic mission in Calcutta. [197]
However, at a press conference in New Delhi on October 19, the question of recognition was
raised to Prime Minister Indira Gandhi-
When are you going to grant the recognition to Bangladesh? To which she answered- I
do not know… When I think the time is ripe for it. [198]
The signing of the Indo-Soviet Treaty on August 9 is a milestone in the history of
Bangladesh’s liberation war. Because this agreement made India’s role in the Liberation war
much more precise and direct. As a result of this agreement in the Security Council Soviet
support was confirmed, India’s security was crucial in the face of the possible Pakistani
attack. Gaining international support on the question of Bangladesh and military preparations
went hand in hand. Despite the provocations and tensions, India waited for Pakistan to attack
first. The Government of Bangladesh sent a letter to the Prime Minister of India on December
4 in the wake of Pakistan’s invasion of India. The letter was written requesting the
recognition of Bangladesh-
Madam Prime Minister, we have the honour to inform you that in view of the direct
aggression committed by Pakistan against your country on 3 rd December, the freedom
forces of Bangladesh are ready to fight the aggressive forces of Pakistan in Bangladesh
in any sector or in any front. Our joint stand against military machination of Pakistan
would be further facilitated, if we enter into formal diplomatic relations with each
other. May we, therefore, repeal our request to your Excellency that the Government of
India accord immediate recognition to our country and our Government. We would like
to take this opportunity to assure your Excellency that the Government and the people
of Bangladesh stand solidly with you in this hour of peril and danger to both countries.
It is our earnest hope that our joint resistance to the nefarious plans and intentions of
President Yahya Khan will be brought to a successful conclusion. [199]
Earlier, it was written in a letter sent by the Bangladesh government to the Prime Minister of
India on October 15-
We are glad to inform you, Excellency that this struggle has borne fruit. The Liberation
army of the Republic of Bangladesh, the Mukti Bahini, are in full control of half the
territory of Bangladesh. We also confirm that the Bangladesh Government has
established effective civil administration over this area which is functioning smoothly.
This development has not merely been welcomed by the broad masses of the people but
the efforts of our Government have found spontaneous and over whelming support in
the areas under its control.
May we, therefore, in the light of these developments request Excellency for a positive
response to the message of 24th of April, 1971, requesting for recognition to the free and
duly constituted Government of Bangladesh. Such a response on your part would give a
tremendous impetus to the struggle being waged by the people and Government of
People’s Republic of Bangladesh for their liberation. It would also generate an
international response which would promote the cause of freedom, peace and stability
in this part of the world. May we, therefore, request your Excellency for an early
response to this communication. [200]
The letter was written to the Prime Minister of India on November 23 on behalf of the
Government of Bangladesh-
Your extending recognition to the Government of Bangladesh seems an imperative
requisite to us to relive the tensions and strain which the people of Bangladesh and
India had to bear over the last eight months. The early achievement of our common
objectives would also depend on your giving not only political and moral support to us,
but also all essential material aid to the freedom struggle. We are convinced that your
according recognition to us and giving substantive content to this recognition by co-
operation in all aspects of our mutual problem relations would expedite a lasting
solution to the problem of Bangladesh. [201]
Finally, two days after Pakistan’s invasion of India, on December 6, the Prime Minister
issued a statement recognizing Bangladesh in the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha of India. In the
statement she said-
Now that Pakistan is waging war against India, the normal hesitation on our part not to
do anything which could come in the way of a peaceful situation, or which might be
constructed as intervention, has lost significance. The people of Bangladesh battling for
their very existence and the people of India fighting to defeat aggression now find
themselves and the partisans in the same cause.
I am glad to inform the House that in light of the existing situation and in response to
the repeated request of the Government of Bangladesh, the Government of India has
after the most careful consideration, decided to grant recognition to the GANA
PRAJATANTRI BANGLADESH. It is our hope that with the passage of time more
nations will grant recognition and the GANA PRAJATANTRI BANGLADESH will
soon form a part of the family of nations. [202]
Therefore, from the given discussion, it can be deduced that different levels were observed
recognising Bangladesh as an independent state. Although the Indian Government finally
recognized independent Bangladesh, it was very careful about recognizing it from the
beginning of the war of liberation. In fact, there was a lot of pressure on the Government
from different levels of the lower House to recognize the Government of Bangladesh. At the
private level in particular, various student organizations, trade unions, various organizations
of intellectuals, various committees formed in support of the independence of Bangladesh,
teachers and education workers’ organizations constantly exerted pressure. Apart from this
private pressure, Jayaprakash Narayan’s role was very important in recognizing the
independent Bangladesh Government at the individual level. Incidentally, the various state
assemblies of the country exerted pressure on the Indian Government by accepting
resolutions in favour of recognition. Even the question of recognition was raised by the
opposition parties and members in Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha with various proposals. With
the exception of one or two political parties, almost all the political parties in India formed a
series of political movements demanding recognition. In a word, even before the Government
of India theoretically recognized the Government of Bangladesh, the citizens of India
mentally recognized the independent Government of Bangladesh from the very bottom of
their minds which reflects the progressive mentality of the people of India. From this point of
view, the role of the Government of India is not entirely negative in this regard, but it can
certainly be said to be a complement to the slow-moving policy. The indecisiveness of the
Indian Government has been widely criticized with India, although it has garnered applause
from all quarters of India after the Government of India recognized independent Bangladesh
on December 6.