Bangabandhu’s 6-Point Programme and the Independence of Bangladesh

Abstract

The paper is an attempt to examine the role of the 6-point programme (1966) presented by Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, which resulted in the independence of Bangladesh. In the backdrop of ‘internal colonial’ rule over the majority of Bangalis by the (West) Pakistani ruling elites Bangabandhu initiated his 6-point programme as ‘the Magna Carta’ of Bangalis’ national emancipation. Mujib made the 6-point programme acceptable to the people: first, by mobilizing the Awami League leaders and workers in favour of it; second, by explaining the messages and ultimate goal of the 6-point programme through various meetings for three months before his arrest at the hands of the Ayub regime. Antagonized by the Bangabandhu’s 6-point programme, the (West) Pakistani rulers imprisoned him. While in jail he was charged with sedition leading the Ayub regime to file ‘the Agartala Conspiracy Case’ (1968). Against the measures of the regime, the people took out the streets creating a mass upsurge and made supreme sacrifices. Ayub had no other option but to unconditionally withdraw the case setting Bangabandhu and other accused free. This was followed by the holding of first general elections of Pakistan in December 1970 in which 6-point programme was Awami League’s election plank. The mandate of the Bangalis in favour of 6-point programme paved the way for the independence of Bangladesh.