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Sectors and different forces of the Liberation War and the role of India,

SSR and USA


The Liberation War typically refers to the Bangladesh Liberation War,
which took place in 1971 when Bangladesh (formerly East Pakistan)
fought for independence from Pakistan. The war involved various
sectors and forces, including the Mukti Bahini (Bangladesh Liberation
Forces) and external support from countries like India, the Soviet Union
(formerly the USSR), and the United States. Here's an overview of the
sectors and the role played by these countries:

Sectors of the Liberation War:


a. Eastern Sector: The Eastern Sector was the primary theater of the
Liberation War and witnessed intense fighting between the Mukti
Bahini and Pakistani forces. It encompassed regions in East Pakistan,
including major cities like Dhaka, Chittagong, and Sylhet.
b. Northern Sector: The Northern Sector covered areas along the
border with India and saw significant military activities. This region was
crucial for providing support to the Mukti Bahini and launching
operations against Pakistani forces.
c. Western Sector: The Western Sector covered regions near the border
with India in West Pakistan. While there were some efforts to support
the Mukti Bahini in this sector, the focus of the war remained primarily
in the Eastern and Northern Sectors.

Mukti Bahini (Bangladesh Liberation Forces):


The Mukti Bahini, consisting of Bengali guerrilla fighters and civilians,
played a crucial role in the Liberation War. They conducted guerrilla
warfare against the Pakistani military, engaging in hit-and-run tactics
and organizing resistance against the occupation forces. The Mukti
Bahini's efforts helped undermine Pakistani control and contributed
significantly to the eventual victory of Bangladesh.

Role of India:
India played a pivotal role in the Bangladesh Liberation War. It provided
shelter, training, and support to millions of Bengali refugees who fled
East Pakistan due to the conflict. The Indian government, under Prime
Minister Indira Gandhi, recognized the legitimate aspirations of the
Bengalis and actively supported their cause.

India's military intervention began on December 3, 1971, after Pakistan


launched pre-emptive airstrikes on Indian airfields. The Indian armed
forces swiftly responded, launching a full-scale military operation
against Pakistan. They supported the Mukti Bahini by providing
training, arms, and logistical support. Indian forces played a crucial role
in various theaters, including the liberation of key cities like Dhaka.

Role of the Soviet Union (USSR):


The Soviet Union, being a strategic ally of India, supported India's
intervention in the Bangladesh Liberation War. The USSR provided
diplomatic and military assistance to India during the conflict. It offered
political support to Bangladesh's cause and exerted pressure on
Pakistan to end the violence. The Soviet Union also supplied military
equipment and ammunition to India, which indirectly aided the Mukti
Bahini in their struggle.
Role of the United States:
The United States initially had a complex stance during the Liberation
War. The Nixon administration was cautious about openly supporting
either side due to Cold War considerations. The US sought to maintain
its relationship with Pakistan, which was seen as an ally in the region.
However, as the war progressed and reports of widespread human
rights abuses by Pakistani forces emerged, there was increasing
pressure on the US to take a stronger stance.

Eventually, as the scale of the atrocities became apparent, the US


government condemned the violence and imposed an arms embargo
on Pakistan. The US also provided humanitarian aid to the Bengali
refugees. While the US did not directly intervene militarily in the
conflict, its indirect actions contributed to the international pressure on
Pakistan.

It's important to note that the roles and perspectives of various


countries in the Liberation War were complex and evolved over time.
The descriptions provided above offer a general overview of the
involvement of India, the Soviet Union, and the United States in the
conflict.

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