Critically examine the compulsions which prompted India to play a decisive role in the emergence of Bangladesh. (UPSC 2013, 10 Marks, )

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India's role in the emergence of Bangladesh in 1971 was driven by various compulsions. These compulsions can be examined through several factors that influenced India's decision to play a decisive role in the creation of Bangladesh.

Compulsions prompting India's role in the emergence of Bangladesh

1. Security concerns:

•   India was concerned about the influx of millions of refugees from East Pakistan, which posed a security threat to its border regions.

•   The Pakistani military crackdown on the Bengali population led to a humanitarian crisis, and India feared that the conflict could spill over into its territory.

2. Geopolitical considerations:

•   India aimed to weaken Pakistan by supporting the Bengali nationalist movement, as it saw an opportunity to diminish its rival's influence in the region.

•   India sought to establish a friendly government in Bangladesh to counterbalance Pakistan's alignment with China and the United States.

3. Humanitarian reasons:

•   The large-scale atrocities committed by the Pakistani military in East Pakistan, including mass killings and sexual violence, compelled India to intervene to protect the Bengali population.

•   India's historical and cultural ties with the Bengali people also played a role in its decision to support their struggle for independence.

4. Economic interests:

•   India anticipated economic benefits from the creation of Bangladesh, as it would gain access to the natural resources and markets of the newly formed country.

•   The establishment of a friendly government in Bangladesh would facilitate trade and economic cooperation between the two nations.

5. Domestic political considerations:

•   The Indian government faced pressure from its own citizens and political parties to intervene in the East Pakistan crisis due to the humanitarian and security concerns.

•   Supporting the Bengali nationalist movement helped the Indian government gain domestic popularity and strengthen its position politically.

6. International pressure:

•   India faced international pressure to intervene in the East Pakistan crisis, with countries like the Soviet Union and some Western nations supporting its stance.

•   The global condemnation of the Pakistani military's actions in East Pakistan pushed India to take a decisive role in resolving the conflict.

7. Strategic advantage:

•   By supporting the Bengali nationalist movement, India aimed to establish a friendly government in Bangladesh that would act as a buffer state between India and Pakistan.

•   This strategic advantage would provide India with greater control over its eastern borders and reduce the threat posed by Pakistan.

India's decision to play a decisive role in the emergence of Bangladesh was influenced by a combination of factors. These factors collectively compelled India to intervene in the East Pakistan crisis and support the Bengali nationalist movement, ultimately leading to the creation of Bangladesh.