Assignment on: Language Movement

Course Title: History of the Emergence of Independent Bangladesh

Course Code: SSS 0222 1107

Submitted To:

Abdul Basit

Lecturer

Department of Public Administration

Shahjalal University of Science and Technology

Name Registration no. E-mail ID

Shawon Uddin Shamim 2023134028 [email protected]

Md Shahriyar Kabir Badhon 2023134048 [email protected]

Naymur Islam 2023134050 [email protected]

Al Jahid Rahman 2023134062 [email protected]

Md Shahol Ahmmed 2023134066 [email protected]

Shaidur Rahman Durjoy 2023134067 [email protected]

Taufiq Sarker 2023134070 [email protected]

Rifah Sanjida 2023134075 [email protected]

Miss Takmina Akter 2023134083 [email protected]

Labiba Tahsin Akhi 2023134089 [email protected]

Amina Begum Shammi 2023134090 [email protected]

Submission Date: 09 December, 2024

Abstract:

The paper examines the Bengali language movement in 1952 as the base of Bengali nationalism under the
theoretical framework of language and nationalism. The idea of “one nation, one language”, in
linguistically diverse regions like Pakistan, often results in the state’s oppressive policies to suppress the
other languages and neglect the sentiments associated with them. Bengali language movement got its base
right after the creation of Pakistan but gained its momentum in 1952. The state’s obvious response was
suppression, resulting in converting the language movement into a nationalist ideology, which provided
the base for the separation of East Pakistan in 1971. The paper qualitatively argues that the colonial
impression of adopting one language as a national symbol resulted in making Urdu Pakistan’s national
language; this colonial notion developed a sense of deprivation among the regional languages like Bengali
with rich historical and cultural background, stemming from the idea of separate nationalism.

Introduction:
Language movements are approaches that seek to revitalize, develop and empower a language that is
endangered or that is about to die. Without language and simply translated, there’s no culture and behind
every culture there’s a community: This brings culture to the forefront to reflect their reality, the value of
language management in education, the level of respect for the people of a society, and even political
injustice. Language as a cultural tool and without it, it’s pointless but in the end it all has to do with
something from within: culture. The case of the Bengali Language Movement in Bangladesh coupled with
the revival of the Irish and Maori languages demonstrates the potential of such movements to promote
and strengthen a nation’s identity. In an era where only a few languages are widely spoken, language
movements are pertinent as they carry the voices of different peoples within the same narrative. The
preservation of such language brings a sense of empowerment as it is a call to appreciate and defend the
heritage of humans as they are interconnected.

Movement Background
On August 14, 1947, India and Pakistan were created. Divided into subcontinent, then the East Bengal
became a part of Pakistan. Only on the basis of religion, the two territories of West Pakistan and East
Pakistan (Bangladesh), thousands of miles apart, were united.As a result, the ruling class of this new state
called Pakistan first attacked the Bengali language as a strategy to exploit Bengalis. What will be the
national language of Pakistan? This type of question appeared before the creation of the state of Pakistan
in 1947. Muslim League leaders advocated making Urdu the state language of Pakistan. Already Bengali
intellectuals and writers including Muhammad Shahidullah protested against it.The Declaration of the
Education Conference held in Karachi in December recommended to the Constituent Assembly to
recognize Urdu as the state language. On 23 February 1948, when the proceedings of the first session of
the Pakistan Council began in Urdu as well as in English, Dhirendranath Dutta of Comilla, a member of
the Congress Party from East Bengal, protested and demanded that Bengali be included as one of the
languages of the session.All members of the Muslim League rejected this. The student community of East
Bengal started protesting this incident. On February 26 and 29, 1948, all educational institutions in Dhaka
observed a strike. Rashtrabhasa Sangram Parishad was reconstituted on March 2 in the presence of
student society and activists. A strike was held on March 11 at the call of the new committee. The
protesters were demanding that Bengali be declared one of the state languages of Pakistan and the official
language of East Pakistan. Many were injured in police baton charge while marching in support of the
strike, chanting the slogan "We want the state language, Bangla". Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman,
Shamsul Haque, Oli Ahad, Kazi Golam and many others were arrested. In view of this, on March 13-15,
a strike was observed across the country in Bangladesh. In the face of intense agitation, on March 15,
Mukshamintri Khawaja Nazimuddin negotiated with the agitators and signed an agreement. The
agreement included - release of arrested persons, formation of inquiry committee, Bengali as the medium
of education, proposal to make Bengali the state language, proposal to raise ups in Legislative Council etc.
[Al Helal, B (2003). Bhasha Andoloner Itihas (History of the Language Movement) (in Bengali). Agamee Prakashani, Dhaka. ISBN 984-401-523-5.]
Tammudun Mojlish
Soon after the creation of Pakistan, the Tammadun Majlish was formed under the leadership of Abul
Kashem, professor of physics at Dhaka University. This was the first organization of language movement.
On the initiative of this organization on 15 September 1947 .The first pamphlet of the language
movement,"Pakistan's National Language Bangla Na Urdu" was published. On the initiative of
Tammadun Majlis,"Rastrabhasa Sangram Parishad" was formed in December 1947 to give a political
shape to the language movement, The convener is Professor Nurul Haque Bhuiyan of Dhaka University.
In addition to Rastrobhasa Sangram Parishad Council, the Democratic Youth League, intellectual
society, and journalistic society demanded that Bengali be made the state language in various meetings
and committees. The Rastrobhasa Sangram Parishad Council has proposed to adopt Bengali as the
medium of education from primary to secondary levels.[Umar, Badruddin. Purba Banglar Bhasha Andhoolon o Totkaleen
Rajneeti. Mowla Brothers, 1970, p. 14]

Muhammad Ali Jinnah in East Bengal

Khawaja Nazimuddin defeated Shaheed Suhrawardy in the 1947 East Bengal elections and was sworn in
as Prime Minister. Until the Language Movement took political shape, factional leaders used to visit
different parts of the province to interact with students and activists. In view of the state language
movement, factional activities within the parliamentary party, etc., the provincial government invited
Muhammad Ali Jinnah to come to East Bengal. Jinnah came to East Bengal on 19th March,1948.Jinnah,
in his speech at the Race Course Ground in Dhaka on 21 March 1948, spoke of the objectives of the
Language Movement and the agitators that they were half-baked by various foreign agencies and wanted
to destroy Pakistan.[Quaid-I-Azam Mohammad Ali Jinnah’s Speeches as Governor General, Pakistan
Publication, Karachi P 85-86 ]

Jinnah also said that the question of language was meant to create divisions among Muslims. The
representatives of this province will decide whether the language of this province will be Bangla or not. [
Quaid-I-Azam Mohammad Ali Jinnah’s Speeches as Governor General, Pakistan Publication, Karachi P 89 ]

Why Urdu should be the official language of Pakistan?

Jinnah said that the state language of Pakistan would be Urdu and not any other language. He argued that
no nation could be united without a single state language. According to Jinnah, they themselves will
decide whether Bangla will be the official language of East Bengal or not. But it is not the majority of the
people of East Bengal who will decide what will be the state language of Pakistan.[ Quaid-I-Azam Mohammad Ali
Jinnah’s Speeches as Governor General, Pakistan Publication, Karachi P-89]

Jinnah's Convocation Speech

On 24 March 1948, Jinnah made remarks against the language activists at the convocation ceremony at
the Curzon Hall of Dhaka University. Jinnah said that the people of the province would decide what
would be the official language of the province. But there will be one language for communication between
different provinces of the state and that is Urdu. When Jinnah declared,"Urdu will be the only state
language" ,the students shouted ,"No no".

Interview with the Rashtrabhasha Sangram Parishad

During a meeting with a delegation of Rastrabhasha Sangram Parishad on the evening of 24 March,
Nazimuddin initially denied that they had an eight-point agreement with him. They started arguing with
Jinnah when he raised questions about the language.First of all, Mohammad Towaha directly told him
that they want Bengali as the national language. Jinnah replied that he did not come to them to teach
politics. During the meeting, a memorandum was submitted on behalf of the Rastrabhasha Sangram
Parishad demanding Bangla as the state language. [Joggantor(Kolkata )2/4/1948].

Bengali is the language of two-thirds of Pakistan's population. Jinnah met with student representatives
before meeting with the State Language Working Committee.
Results of Jinnah's visit to East Bengal

One of the outcomes of Jinnah's visit to East Bengal was the end of the East Bengal Muslim League and
Parliamentary Party rivalry. The refusal to recognise Bengali as the official language of the National
Assembly transformed the language movement into a political movement. As a result, the provincial
government was forced to agree to accept a proposal recommending to the central government to make
Bangla the state language of Pakistan.

The Betrayal of the Nazimuddin Government

The Official Proposal of Khawaja Nazimuddin in the Legislative Assembly:

On April 6, 1948, Prime Minister Khawaja Nazimuddin had suggested that Bengali be accepted as the
official language of East Bengal and also be used as the medium of instruction in place of English. The
address by the opposition leader Basanta Kumar Das made the move to change the constitution become a
postponement to April 8 due to the need for a review of the proposal.

When the assembly again met, the amendments were discussed. Prime Minister Nazimuddin replaced one
of the words during the meeting and replaced “scholars” with “students” in the draft.

These debates underscored the emergence of a wider controversy concerning language policy in Pakistan
through the recognition of the place of Bengali in the governance and educational system of East Bengal.

The Amendment Proposal of Dhirendranath Datta:

•Dhirendranath Datta made some amendments in which he proposed replacing English in the
administration and teaching with Bengali and declared it to be the official language of East Bengal. He
advocated the use of Bengali as a state language of Pakistan which should be in use in all government
forms, railway tickets, and other public utilities.

•This proposal was, however, rejected by Prime Minister Khawaja Nazimuddin who contended that it is a
matter of the provincial assembly and that the central government should deal with it. In reply, Datta
stated his proposed the proposal step by step, adjusting it so as to secure partial acceptance.

•He called for rapid adoption of Bengali language so that no further Afghanization of the Bengali people.
Datta further stressed that language is the primary channel through which culture is represented and that
judges and teachers should be able to speak Bengali.

•He also explained that the unilingualism of the inhabitants of East Pakistan may be in justification for
the acceptance of Bengali amidst the many other existing languages of West Pakistan. He brought out
practical problems, for instance, problems of communication through railway tickets & filling in forms and
called for an urgent resolution to the issue.

•Datta also condemned the sidelining of Urdu and urged people to recognize language rights of the
majority of people. He suggested setting up of committees to look into the language issues of Bengali and
dismissed the arguments that the movement for language was a Hindu movement.

Other amendment proposals:

The sixth Language Movement debates in the East Bengal Legislative Assembly in June 1948, resolved
that a majority of the people demanded that Bengali be the official language. Munawar Ali was angry with
the fact that none of his amendments were included, while Binod Chandra Chakravarty accused the
leadership of ‘double talk’ and quiet resistance against Bengali.

In connection with this, Chakravarty reminded the audience of Jinnah’s earlier view that the Bengali
language was not accepted as one of the state languages, resulting in the Muslim League working policies.
As for Abdul Bari Chowdhury and Prabhash Chandra Lahiri suggested the amendments relating to the
use of Bengali as the language of Government, education and central services.

However, some of the proposals advanced by the members during the debate were labelled as unrealistic
and beyond the scope of the assembly by Prime Minister Nazimuddin causing widespread anger amongst
the members for breaching the social pact. Most of the members including Shamsuddin Ahmed called to
delete such phrases, saying that the requests were submitted too weak, saying ‘as far as possible’ for the
prompt Rayat implementation of the Bengali language.

In his address, Habibullah Bahar reaffirmed the democratic and revolutionary nature of the Bengali
language but because of the fact that it was more of a cultural, rather political address, focused more on
the Muslims contributing towards the language.

It reflected not only political tactics and the narration of the history but also the sincere attempt of the
participants to elevate Bengali language as the language of the state with certain historical background of
East Bengal.

Nazimuddin's response to the debate:

•In light of the language proposals brought forth, Prime Minister Khwaja Nazimuddin was ready to
accept alterations to the language of law envisioned in 1948 with only one limitation, that is Ahmed Ali
Mridha's proposal where he made it clear that Bengali should become the official language of East Bengal
as soon as the practical problems were sorted out.

•Nazimuddin pointed out that the situation was still worse when it came to the typewriters, the Bengali
textbooks, and Bengali translation. Therefore, special arrangements had to be made to establish a
committee to tackle these problems. Quite a lot of stress was placed on the necessity of seeking measures
to fit in the minority languages with the language of the majority which was Bengali in many places.

•Nazimuddin castigated the opposition leader Dhirendranath Datta for revocation of the settled matters
and defended the Bangla imposition proposal against the caste-in-urdo- allegations. He made it clear that
English will be the primary language in the civil service examinations and that Bangla will only be
optional.

•Now here’s the best fun, had Nazimuddin claimed an endorsement for March 15th arrangement with the
state language committee, well there’s no chance of that ever happening stating that such views breed
disunity. His behavior, however, invoked a sense of opportunism in politics with some embarrassed leaders
having to keep quiet having made too many compromises for too many positions.

•The language movement was betrayed resulting in a rupture in the East Bengal Muslim League and the
regions were greatly reshuffled with cobras either supporting the government or becoming part of the
Awami Muslim League.

[EAST BENGAL LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY PROCEEDINGS, VOL. NO. 4, 6/4/1948 , PAGE-57& 8/4/1948,PAGE-134-165]

FIRST POLITICAL MOVEMENT

Proposal on the Language Issue in the Constituent Assembly

On February 23, 1948, the first session of Pakistan's Constituent Assembly commenced. During the
session, two key amendments were proposed by the opposition:

1. Holding one assembly session annually in Dhaka.

2. Recognizing Bengali as one of the state languages alongside Urdu and English.

The second proposal, regarding language, was introduced by Dhirendranath Datta, a representative from
East Bengal. Although it was a personal proposal and not officially backed by the Congress Party, all
Congress members supported it.

Dhirendranath Datta's Justification: He argued that Bengali, being the majority language spoken by the
people of Pakistan, deserved recognition in the Constituent Assembly alongside Urdu and English.

Opposition from Prime Minister Liaquat Ali Khan: Khan vehemently opposed the proposal, calling it
divisive and against national unity. He claimed Urdu was essential as the common language for Pakistan's
cohesion.

Statements by Government Officials:

Ghulam Muhammad and Khwaja Nazimuddin opposed Bengali's inclusion, emphasizing Urdu's role as
the language of Muslim culture and identity. Critics accused proponents of creating unnecessary divisions
and fostering Support from Congress Leaders. Congress members like Rajkumar Chakravarty highlighted
that Urdu was not a spoken language in any province and was being imposed undemocratically. They
stressed that Bengali deserved equal status due to its cultural and numerical significance. Despite
significant debates, the proposal to include Bengali was rejected due to strong opposition from the Muslim
League members, who dominated the assembly. This event marked the beginning of linguistic tensions in
Pakistan, setting the stage for the later Language Movement in East Bengal. [ANANDA BAZAR
PATRIKA,26/2/1948;AMRITA BAZAR PATRIKA,27/2/1948;]

Criticism of Prime Minister Khawaja Nazimuddin's Statement

1. Dainik Azad: Criticized Khawaja Nazimuddin's claim that Urdu should be the sole state language of
Pakistan. The paper questioned his authority to make such a claim without a public mandate, asserting
that a referendum would show overwhelming support for Bengali.

2. Daily Ittihad: Criticized Prime Minister Liaquat Ali Khan for labeling the proposal to include Bengali
in the Constituent Assembly's proceedings as divisive. The paper argued that this stance ignored the
majority's fundamental rights.

Bengali as a State Language

1.Anandabazar Patrika (February 27, 1948): Highlighted the undemocratic nature of Pakistan's
governance, particularly how Bengali was being excluded despite being the majority language. It criticized
the imposition of Urdu as the sole state language and pointed out the linguistic diversity of Pakistan's
provinces. The editorial deemed this move authoritarian and culturally oppressive.

2.Amritabazar Patrika: Supported the inclusion of Bengali as a state language, criticizing Liaquat Ali
Khan's statement that Urdu was the only suitable Muslim language. It warned of cultural dominance by
West Pakistan and the marginalization of East Pakistan.

Broader Concerns

1. Nawbelal (Sylhet): Published an editorial on March 4, 1948, linking the state language question to the
cultural rights of East Bengal. It emphasized that suppressing Bengali would harm the cultural identity of
the region.

2. Comparisons to Colonial Rule: Some publications compared the central government's policies to British
colonialism, suggesting that East Bengal was facing new forms of cultural and linguistic imperialism under
Pakistan's central leadership.

Criticism of Centralization: Many pointed out that the central government's policies favored Urdu and
West Pakistan, sidelining the majority population in East Pakistan.

Call for Justice: The publications urged the leadership to recognize Bengali as a state language and avoid
policies that alienated East Pakistanis.

Meetings and Organizational Initiatives

The announcement that Bengali would not be recognized as one of the official languages of Pakistan's
Constituent Assembly led to strong reactions in Dhaka, particularly among students, politicians, and
intellectuals. They criticized the Muslim League’s stance, especially the actions of the Bengali members,
questioning why they voted against Bengali's inclusion as an official language.

A cultural and political meeting was organized on March 2 at Fazlul Haq Hall, where prominent leaders
and activists, including those from the East Pakistan Muslim Students League, discussed strategies to form
a united front against the government’s stance. This meeting resulted in the creation of the
"Rashtrobhasha Sangram Parishad," which brought together various student organizations to organize
protests, including a general strike scheduled for March 11. Despite opposition from some quarters, the
movement continued to gain momentum, with a focus on Bengali being recognized as one of Pakistan's
official languages.[AMRITA BAZAR PATRIKA,27/2/1948;TAZUDDIN AHMED’S DIARY,2/3/1948]

Attack on The protesters in Sylhet

On March 8, a meeting organized in Sylhet to thank Khawaja Nazimuddin for supporting Bengali as a
state language turned chaotic when pro-Urdu groups disrupted proceedings. Violence erupted, leading to
attacks on attendees, including prominent Bengali language supporters. Subsequent speeches incited
further assaults, sparking condemnation from various groups. In response to rising tensions, authorities
imposed a two-month ban on gatherings. Editorials and prominent Sylhet figures emphasized the
importance of Bengali recognition for East Pakistan's progress, criticizing Urdu supporters for spreading
divisive propaganda. Pro-Urdu leaders, however, defended Urdu as a symbol of Islamic heritage,
advocating its recognition as a national language.[NAWBELAL,11/3/1948]

General Strike on March 11, 1948

On March 11, 1948, a general strike organized by the State Language Action Committee saw widespread
student participation, with picketing at key locations in Dhaka. Despite no Section 144 being imposed
initially, contingency plans were in place. Protests escalated as students clashed with police, leading to
arrests and injuries of leaders like Shamsul Haque and Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. Government attempts to
downplay the strike, portraying it as a communal issue, were criticized for undermining its unity. The event
marked a pivotal moment in the Language Movement, highlighting growing tensions and the protesters'
determination.[AMRITA BAZAR PATRIKA,12/3/1948]

Protest Against the Repression of March 11

On March 12, Naeemuddin Ahmed of the East Pakistan Student League condemned the March 11
government crackdown, labeling it fascist and oppressive against the Bengali language movement. He
criticized police brutality, including baton charges and mass arrests, reporting 200 injured, 18 seriously,
and 69 still detained. Protests erupted in Dhaka, with violence at Jagannath College and heightened
security near the Secretariat. Fazlul Haq called for the East Bengal Executive Council’s resignation,
threatening his own if no action was taken, though no resignations followed. From March 13-15, strikes
paralyzed educational institutions across major cities, with students demanding detained protesters' release
and Bengali's recognition as a state language. The government escalated repression, banning key
newspapers to curb dissent.

Some more events happened in march :

• Signing of the Agreement and the First Session of the East Bengal Legislative Assembly

• Events surrounding a session of a legislative body in Bengal, where tensions between the government and
student protesters escalated (March 14)

Release of Prisoners and Subsequent Protests:

Between March 15-17, language movement prisoners were released following interventions by Prime
Minister Nazimuddin, though delays caused tensions. Freed activists led protests against police brutality,
with key leaders like Mujibur Rahman organizing marches and assemblies. A clash on March 16 near the
Assembly Building resulted in injuries, including a severe attack on Shaukat Ali. Protests continued with a
strike in Dhaka's institutions on March 17, while tensions escalated in Jessore, marked by violent
opposition and armed attacks. Nazimuddin promised investigations, but the unrest highlighted growing
momentum in the language movement .[TAZUDDIN AHMED’S DIARY,15/3/1948&16/3/1948;E.B.ASSEMBLY
PROCEEDING,15/3/1948,VOL.NO.1.;NAWBELAL,25/3/1948]
General Discontent and Government Policies

In April 1948, central government employees in Dhaka went on an 18-day strike for financial benefits,
marking East Bengal’s first prolonged strike. During this, 36 Dhaka Medical College students began a
hunger strike, which led to their demands being met. A general strike was also observed in Dhaka to
protest the sales tax imposition. In Sylhet, journalists condemned press restrictions. In June, Suhrawardy
was detained under the Public Safety Act, prompting student protests against educational
mismanagement. In July, police staged a strike over unpaid salaries, leading to clashes. Student
demonstrations broke out when a march was banned during Prime Minister Liaquat Ali’s visit. Tensions
rose further at Dhaka University over a proposal to include Bengali as a state language. [TAZUDDIN AHMED’S
DIARY,15/3/1948&16/3/1948;E.B.ASSEMBLY PROCEEDING,15/3/1948,VOL.NO.1.;NAWBELAL,25/3/1948]

Massive Student Protests in Dhaka City

In November 1948, students from Dhaka Eden Girls' School and Kamrunnesa Girls' School launched a
large movement protesting the decision to merge the two schools. On November 15, about 500 students
went on strike, demanding the reversal of the merger, reinstatement of dismissed teachers, scholarships for
underprivileged students, and better transportation. Prime Minister Nurul Amin sought time to discuss
their demands, but protests continued, including picketing and marches. On November 24, Priyanath High
School students joined in solidarity. Meanwhile, Dhaka Intermediate College students began their own
strike on November 21, focusing on education and infrastructure issues. Despite Prime Minister Amin's
criticism, the government partially accepted the students' demands, leading to the end of both movements
by early December. This strike marked a significant moment in the fight for women's education and rights.
[AZAD16/11/1948;TAZUDDIN AHMMED’S DIARY,27/11/1948]

East Pakistan Literary Conference

In late 1948, Provincial Health Minister Habibullah Bahar organized East Pakistan's first literary
conference, with prominent figures like Professor Ajit Guha and Syed Ali Ashraf involved in the planning.
However, the Progressive Writers and Artists Association opposed the event, labeling it "anti-progressive"
and boycotting it. This led to internal conflict, resulting in the expulsion of Ajit Guha, who disagreed with
the boycott. The conference took place at Curzon Hall on December 31, 1948, and January 1, 1949, with
Dr. Muhammad Shahidullah delivering a speech on national literature and the Bengali script. Tensions
arose during Fazle Ahmad Karim Fazli’s controversial remarks about linguistic ties with West Bengal,
which Habibullah Bahar attempted to defuse. Despite these controversies, the event marked a significant
moment in East Pakistan's literary scene.[AZAD7/12/1948&1/1/1949;SAINIK,9/1/1949]

The Progress of Student Movements at Dhaka University

Formation of the East Pakistan Muslim Students League: In 1948, amidst dissatisfaction with the pre-
existing Muslim Students League in East Pakistan, a group of students from Dhaka University took the
initiative to establish the "East Pakistan Muslim Students League." They issued a circular inviting students
to join the new organisation.

Reasons for the Formation

• Lack of effective sessions in the central council of the Students League.

• Leaders clinging to power and engaging in party politics.

• Opposition to the Bengali language and anti-student activities.

Goals and Programs of the New Organisation

• Promoting education, protecting the dignity of the Bengali language, expanding primary education, and
improving technical education.

• Working for student and national welfare, free from party politics.
Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, Abdul Matin, and others played significant roles in leading the organization.
However, figures like Oli Ahad and Muhammad Toaha opposed the initiative and eventually left the
organisation. [Mohammad Tuaha, Ali Ahad, Abdul Mateen (Pabna), 314 Badruddin Umar, Rachnabali volume 2, the aforementioned, Sainik, 9th
September 1949]

This organisation not only worked on its own agendas but also played a significant role in national issues,
including the Bengali Language Movement.

Non-Communal Student Politics in 1949

In 1949, the student political environment in East Pakistan was characterised by various organisations,
non-communal movements, and the influence of reactionary forces.

• The Role of the Student Federation: The Student Federation was the only non-communal student
organisation in East Pakistan. However, its connection with the Communist Party limited its influence
among Muslim students.

• Initiatives for a New Non-Communal Organisation: A group of students attempted to establish a non-
communal organisation called the "Pakistan Students' Rally," aiming to create a student body independent
of party politics. It proposed recognising both Urdu and Bengali as state languages. However, internal
disagreements and lack of participation led to its failure.

• Student Federation's Activities and Challenges: The Student Federation engaged in protests and strikes,
such as observing a "Day of Resistance Against Oppression" in January 1949. However, the compromising
attitude of some student leaders and communal constraints hindered the movement's success.

A New Phase of Student Movements

In April 1949, a student strike at Dhaka University marked a significant milestone in East Pakistan's
political history. On April 17, a strike was called by the East Pakistan Student Federation and the Muslim
Students League in protest against punitive measures against 27 students. The strike garnered widespread
support, turning into a mass protest involving the general public.
[https://bn.wikipedia.org/wiki/%E0%A6%AC%E0%A6%BE%E0%A6%82%E0]

Bengali Language Movement: Background and Role of Dhaka University Students

Following the partition of India in 1947, Pakistan chose Urdu as its state language, ignoring the majority
Bengali-speaking population. This decision, viewed as discriminatory, led to protests by Bengali cultural
organisations and students.

The movement gained momentum in 1948 with the formation of the "Tamaddun Majlish," advocating for
Bengali as a state language. Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and other progressive leaders played crucial roles in
this movement.

In 1952, the protests peaked when Dhaka University students defied Section 144 and marched on
February 21. Police attacks claimed the lives of students like Rafique, Jabbar, Salam, and Barkat. Their
sacrifice led to the recognition of Bengali as one of Pakistan's state languages
[https://bn.banglapedia.org/index.php/%E0%A6%AD%E0%A6%BE%E0%A6]

Historical Impact

The language movement's success marked February 21 as International Mother Language Day. Dhaka
University students' leadership and sacrifice became part of Bangladesh's national heritage, establishing
the foundation for Bengali nationalism and the eventual independence movement. [https://www.bd-
pratidin.com/mohan-ekushey-special/2021/02/21/620704]
The Rise of East Pakistan Awami Muslim League
In 1947, there were three types of Political Ideologies in Bengal.

1. Religious Ideology-Based Political Stream: Represented by the Muslim League.

2. Secular and Democratic Ideology: Represented by the National Congress.

3. Revolutionary Socialist Ideology: Represented by the Communist Party.(Selim,2012)

From the very beginning, the Urdu-speaking leaders of West Pakistan turned the Muslim League into
their own party. Ignoring the contributions of Bengali leaders in the movement for the creation of
Pakistan, the West Pakistani Muslim League leaders adopted discriminatory policies against Bengalis and
subjected them to oppression. Prominent Muslim League leaders like Sher-e-Bangla A.K. Fazlul Huq,
Huseyn Shaheed Suhrawardy, and Abdul Hashim were neglected.(Chakravarti, S. R. 1995)

As the ruling party, the Muslim League governed the country in an undemocratic manner from the outset.
Gradually, the party began losing the trust of the people. From the beginning of post-1947 East Bengal,
the Muslim League became entangled in internal conflicts. The party split into two ideological factions:
The first faction was democratic, liberal, and reform-oriented. The second faction was conservative and
aligned with the leadership of West Pakistan.

• These internal conflicts weakened the organizational structure of the Muslim League. Furthermore, the
ruling group of West Pakistan always sought to suppress reformist leaders within the party.
(Rahman,Syedur.2010)

The Contribution of Awami Muslim League in the Language Movement:

Although the people of East Bengal spontaneously participated in the State Language Movement, many
political parties, student organizations, and cultural groups played active roles in it. The demand for
making Bengali the state language was first raised by a political party named Ganazadi League.
Subsequently, organizations like Tamuddun Majlis, Democratic Youth League, East Pakistan Muslim
Chhatra League, Student Federation, East Pakistan Awami Muslim League, East Pakistan Youth League,
and Islami Chhatra Sangha actively participated in the movement.

Regarding the contribution of the East Pakistan Awami Muslim League, the main anti-government
political party of the time during the Language Movement: This party was founded in 23 June 1949 as a
protest against food shortages, skyrocketing prices of essential goods, the state language controversy, and
the undemocratic policies of the Muslim League leaders in newly independent Pakistan. The East
Pakistan Awami Muslim League played a significant role in the State Language Movement.

Diplomatic conspiracy to change the state language

They had started the initiative of introducing Arabic script in Bengali as one of the ways to destroy
Bengali since 1947. The central minister representing Bangladesh, Fazlur Rahman, was the 'Philosopher'
and main proponent of this script change effort. Through various speeches and statements, he explained
the importance of changing the script of the Bengali language and continuously propagated that the script
of all languages of Pakistan should be the same in order to protect and strengthen the national unity of
Pakistan and meaningful unity among the people. On December 27, 1948, the all-Pakistan teachers'
conference was held in Karachi. In his inaugural address, Pakistan’s education secretary Fazlur Rahman
mentioned the need to base Pakistan’s education on islamic ideals and argued for the introduction of the
Arabic script in Bengali, saying that it would help preserve regional languages. The Arabic alphabet would
also help in providing educational uniformity in the different provinces of Pakistan.

Although it began in 1947, this conspiracy to introduce the Arabic script took full hold in 1949. Fazle
Ahmed Karim Fazli, the secretary of the provincial education department, was one of the main initiators
of the introduction of Arabic script in Bengali. He and Fazlur Rahman, together with Maulana Zulfiqar
Ali of Chittagong, established an association called the 'Huruful Quran Samiti' and through it tried to
form a movement to introduce Arabic script in Bengali. 9th march 1949. The East Bengal government
formed the East Bengal language committee with the aim of introducing Arabic-Persian words into the
Bengali language. 11th march 1949 “The National Language day” was celebrated in various educational
institutions of east Bengal.

The thing that has created the most stir in the minds of the intellectuals of east Pakistan is that the
educated population of east Pakistan is 12 to 15 percent; but in west Pakistan it is less than 5 percent. An
attempt is being made to turn these 15 percent educated people into illiterates with the stroke of a pen in
the name of the Arabic alphabet. If the Arabic alphabet is introduced, the educated population of west
Pakistan will remain the same, whereas the educated population of East Pakistan will drop from 15
percent to a negligible fraction.

On December 10, 1949, at a meeting of the executive council of the students' union of Dhaka university,
there was strong opposition to writing Bengali in Arabic script. A resolution passed in the meeting stated
that the plan to write Bengali in Arabic script was completely against the development of the people of
east Bengal. The resolution appealed to the east Bengal government to ensure that such a plan never came
into effect.

On the same day, the students of the university opposed the proposal to write Bengali in Arabic script in a
separate meeting and demanded in a resolution that the decision to change the script of Bengali should
not be taken in the session of the Pakistan educational advisory board to be held in Dhaka from
December 14 to 16.

On December 16, the third session of the Pakistan educational advisory board ended in Dhaka under the
chairmanship of the union education minister Failure Rahman. Although no discussion on Bengali
language was initiated in these three-day meetings of the education board, the board recommended the
appointment of a high-powered committee to devise ways for the future development of Urdu language
and literature. Since such words are needed for conducting government and business related activities in
Urdu, the said committee will prepare an Urdu dictionary and encyclopedia and also prepare Urdu
synonyms for scientific and technical words. After this, as a very subtle conspiracy to introduce Arabic
script in Bengali, they said in this session of the educational advisory board that if any student objects to
reading books written in the script of his mother tongue, then his objection must be given special
consideration.

For the all-round development of Urdu language, a committee was formed by the central educational
advisory board on 16 February 1950 on the initiative of Fazlur Rahman. The chairman of this committee
consisting of 19 members was appointed as the chairman of the 'Baba-E-Urdu' Dr. Abdul Haque.

Then, on 9 February 1951, at the public session of the world Muslim conference held in Karachi, the
leader of the Islamic community, the Aga Khan, said that if Arabic was made the state language of
Pakistan, common communication would be established between the muslims of the Arab world, north
Africa and Indonesia. These proposals to make Arabic the state language did not, of course, find much
support in any part of Pakistan. However, since this demand was related to the question of the
development of Islamic culture, it indirectly strengthened the demand in some quarters for the state
language to be Urdu and the introduction of Arabic script in Bengali. Rabindranath Burmi, the secretary
of the Pakistan Buddhist league, opposed the proposal to make Arabic the state language that was raised
in various quarters, in a statement on 10 February 1951.

By attempting to declare Urdu and Arabic as the state languages, an effort was made to suppress the
language, education, and culture of East Pakistan at the time. This attempt further fueled the Bengali
resentment and strengthened the resolve behind the language movement.[Umar, B. (1971). Purbo Banglar
Bhasha Andolon O Totkalin Rajniti 1 [The Language Movement of East Bengal and Contemporary
Politics 1]. Suborna. Accessed December 2, 2024, from
https://www.ebanglalibrary.com/books/%e0%a6%aa%e0%a7%82%e0%a6%b0%e0%a7%8d%e0%a6%ac-
%e0%a6%ac%e0%a6%be%e0%a6%99%e0%a6%b2%e0%a6%be%e0%a6%b0-
%e0%a6%ad%e0%a6%be%e0%a6%b7%e0%a6%be-
%e0%a6%86%e0%a6%a8%e0%a7%8d%e0%a6%a6%e0%a7%8b%e0%a6%b2/]
East Bengal Language Committee: Context, Activities, Controversies, and Impact
The East Bengal Language Committee was established during a period when the question of language
became a central issue in shaping the political and cultural identity of East Pakistan. After the partition of
India in 1947, Pakistan emerged as a state divided into two regions—East and West Pakistan—distinct in
culture, language, and lifestyle. Despite Bengali being the dominant language in East Pakistan, the central
government of West Pakistan sought to impose Urdu as the sole state language. This sparked discontent
in East Pakistan, ultimately leading to the Language Movement.

Objectives of the Language Committee

Formed in 1949 under the East Bengal government, the primary goal of the Language Committee was to
modernize the Bengali language and standardize it for administrative and academic purposes. Another
significant aim was to provide a cultural and linguistic foundation to counter the central government’s
push for Urdu as the sole state language and to secure constitutional recognition for Bengali.

Objectives of the Language Committee

Formed in 1949 under the East Bengal government, the primary goal of the Language Committee was to
modernize the Bengali language and standardize it for administrative and academic purposes. Another
significant aim was to provide a cultural and linguistic foundation to counter the central government’s
push for Urdu as the sole state language and to secure constitutional recognition for Bengali.

The committee’s objectives can be broadly divided into two categories:

1. Language reform and modernization: Simplification of the Bengali script, development of terminology,
and ensuring Bengali's usage as an administrative language.

2. Opposition to Urdu script adoption: Safeguarding Bengali from the imposition of Urdu script and
preserving its cultural heritage.

Formation and Membership

The committee was chaired by Maulana Akram Khan, a prominent journalist, writer, and advocate of the
Language Movement. It included educators, writers, and administrative officials. Notable members
included Dhirendranath Datta, who argued for Bengali in Pakistan's first Constituent Assembly, and
Ganesh Chandra Bose, an important figure in Bengali literature.

However, internal disagreements emerged within the committee, particularly regarding the proposal to
adopt the Urdu script. Several members eventually withdrew, creating obstacles in its operations.

Key Activities

The committee’s activities were concentrated on four main areas:

1. Reforming the Bengali script: Proposals to simplify and make the script more practical.
2. Evaluating the adoption of Urdu script: Critiquing and rejecting the use of Urdu or Arabic scripts for
Bengali.
3. Developing new terminology: Creating terms for science, administration, and technology in Bengali.
4. Gathering public opinion: Distributing questionnaires to collect feedback from various societal groups.

Controversies and Differences

The committee faced significant challenges concerning the proposal to adopt the Urdu script. The central
government and the ruling elite of West Pakistan argued that the Urdu script would foster national unity.
However, the people of East Pakistan viewed this as cultural aggression.
Most committee members opposed the adoption of the Urdu script, asserting that it could not accurately
represent Bengali phonetics and would undermine the literary and cultural heritage of the language.

On the other hand, some members, influenced by religious sentiments, supported the idea of adopting the
Urdu script, citing its connection to Arabic, the language of Islamic tradition. However, this stance failed
to gain traction among the majority of Bengali Muslims.

Committee Decisions and Significance

The committee ultimately recommended retaining the traditional Bengali script and rejected the proposal
to adopt the Urdu script. These recommendations played a pivotal role in modernizing and standardizing
the Bengali language. The committee became a symbol of cultural resistance, setting the stage for the
subsequent Language Movement.

Long-Term Impact of the Committee

The East Bengal Language Committee's contributions extended beyond language standardization. It laid
the groundwork for cultural preservation and fostered a sense of Bengali nationalism.

1. Boosting the spirit of the Language Movement: The committee’s efforts heightened public awareness
about linguistic and cultural rights, inspiring the movement for Bengali language recognition.
2. Administrative recognition of Bengali: Eventually, Bengali gained official status as the administrative
language of East Pakistan
3. Impact on education: The committee’s recommendations influenced the inclusion and advancement of
Bengali in the education systems.

References:
Hassan, A. (2024). Language-based nationalism: A historical analysis of the Bengali language movement
1952. Pakistan Journal of Humanities and Social Sciences, 12(2), 2037–2043.
https://doi.org/10.52131/pjhss.2024.v12i2.2349

Mahmud, I. (2016). Bengali language movement. Academia.edu.

https://www.academia.edu/23223475/Bengali_Language_Movement

The Final Struggle of 1952: The Fight for Bengali Language Rights
In late January 1952, the language movement reignited. The then Prime Minister, Khawaja Nazimuddin,
declared in a public meeting that Urdu would be the sole state language of Pakistan. This announcement
sparked widespread protests across Bengal. On January 30, the "Dhaka Bishwabidyaloy Rastrabhasha
Sangram Parishad" for strikes and meetings.

To spread the language movement nationwide, an all-party meeting was held at Dhaka’s Bar Library on
January 31. Representatives from various organizations, including the East Pakistan Muslim Students
League, Tamaddun Majlis, Islami Chhatra Sangha, Youth League, and East Pakistan Awami Muslim
League, formed the "Sharbadaliya Rastrabhasha Sangram Parishad". They declared February 21 as the
day for strikes, protests, and rallies throughout East Pakistan.

On February 12, the English-language newspaper "The Daily Pakistan Observer," which supported the
language movement, was banned. Section 144 was imposed on February 21. Defying the prohibition,
students took to the streets as planned. Police baton-charged and used tear gas to disperse the protesters.
Clashes broke out between police and students. When students marched in groups from Dhaka Medical
College, police opened fire on the procession. Abdul Jabbar and Rafiq were killed on the spot, and 17
others were critically injured. Among the injured, Barkat, Salam, and several others later died.
This incident spread like wildfire across the country, prompting protests from people of all walks of life.
On February 22, another protest march was met with police firing. Strikes were observed from February
22 to 24. In response to the events, Abul Kalam Shamsuddin, the editor of the daily Azad, resigned from
his membership in the East Bengal Provincial Assembly.

On February 23, students from Dhaka Medical College built a temporary Shaheed Minar (Martyrs'
Monument) to honor the martyrs. However, on February 26, police demolished the monument. Following
February 21, the government adopted a policy of repression, leading to the arrests of many teachers,
student leaders, and politicians. Eventually, under intense pressure from the movement, the West Pakistan
government was forced to accept the students' demands.

Emergence of Nationalism
The language movement of 1952 was an eye-opener for Bengalis, as it created national consciousness
among people. After the Bengal partition, the Pakistanis started to propose that Urdu be the state
language, and Bengali people protested against it. But still in 1948, Muhammad Ali Jinnah stated that
Urdu would be the sole state language, and the backlash it received made the central government to
propose Arabic script and unfamiliar Perso-Arabic elements into Bangla (Anisuzzaman,Bangladesh Six
decades, Nymphea Publication,2014). This malicious attempt ignited the insides of Bengalis, sparking
widespread unity. This was also perceived as an attack on Bengali culture and heritage.People of East
Bengal finally understood the dominance of West Pakistan in governance, administrative responsibility,
and more economic and political rights, showing its true political character in Pakistan. Soon, the
movement became a fight for recognition, dignity, and equality not only for language. After the tragic
event of 21st February, 1952, the sacrifice of the martyrs and protesters created a nationalistic spirit
crossing the religious and class divisions, bringing the focus on cultural and linguistic identity, which is
Bengali. To commemorate their sacrifice, people built a Shaheed Minar, which also got destroyed by
police(Anisuzzaman,Bangladesh Six decades,Nymphea Publication,2014). People all over Bengal started
to feel the shared hatred towards Pakistan, and writers started to protest against Pakistan through
literature. Bengalis started to feel their importance by protecting their mother tongue. The determination
of Bengalis for their language resulted in Pakistan complying to make Bengali a national language in 1956
constitution. But this event also taught the people of East Bengal that they had to constantly fight for
their rights in Pakistan. They finally felt the courage and self-confidence to fight against the discrimination
against Pakistan.It created the spirit of independence among Bengalis, as it was the first liberation against
Pakistan. To establish a self-identity as Bengalis became a need as they realized the importance of it in
education, culture, politics, and economics. This unity featuring the language became the foundation of
nationalism.This communal nationalist consciousness led to the SIX-POINT MOVEMENT (1966) and
ultimately the LIBERATION WAR of 1971.

Ref: (Bangladesh & Global Studies for Class 9-10. National Curriculum and Textbook Board, 2017.)

Effects of Language Movement

1. Political Impact: The language movement had a far-reaching impact on Pakistani politics. Many
political parties and politicians got involved with this movement. As a result, independence thought
started in East Bengal. Language acts as a catalyst for subsequent movements. The language movement
gave rise to a form of provincialism. Since then, whenever any demand related to the interests of East
Bengal has been voiced, it has gained the support of the people of East Bengal.
2. Exploitation of different demands: During the language movement, East Bengal's population-
proportional number of seats in the Central Constituent Assembly was demanded, provincial autonomy
was demanded. Demands for greater recruitment of Bengalis in the central civil service and an end to the
economic disparity between East and West Pakistan.

3. The creation of various political parties and the beginning of the fall of the Muslim League: Due to the
hostile attitude of the Muslim League on the Bengali language issue, the dominance of the Muslim
League in East Bengal was eroded due to the formation of new parties like the Democratic Party, Jubo
League, Awami Muslim League etc. from this party. As a result, this party suffered a crushing defeat in the
1954 East Bengal Provincial Council elections.

4. Emergence of student society as a political force: The language movement transforms the student
society into a latent political force. Students are directly involved in politics. Within two months of the
language movement (April, 1952), a student organization called 'Chhatra Union' was born in East Bengal.
Students were the key in the later movements strength

5. Unity of Bengali: The language movement created a tradition of unity among people of all professions
like students, teachers, intellectuals, workers, employees etc. We see it repeated in later movements.

6. Beginning of non-communal politics: Non-communal politics started with language movement.

Language movement While inside Parliament, Congress party Hindu leaders spoke out on language
demands, while non-Congressmen on the streets spoke out against religious bigotry. As a result Hindu-
Muslim harmony increased in East Bengal. In 1955, the word 'Muslim' was removed from the name of the
Awami Muslim League party and became Awami League. As a result, secular non-communal politics
started in this territory.

7. Beginning of Women's Awakening: 1952 Language movement by school-college girls. As a result, the
practice of wearing burqa among female students decreases. The trend of women's participation in the
next meeting was created. Girls also actively participate in politics.

8. Inspiration of Language Movement: Inspiration of language movement is the inspiration of our

freedom struggle. Bengali nationalism emerged from the language movement.

9. February 21 recognized as International Mother Language Day: On November 26, 1999, UNESCO
recognized February 21 as International Mother Language Day. This recognition increased the
importance of the language movement and raised the status of the Bengali language.

Conclusion:
February first marks Bengali national identity day. Nation reverently remembers the contribution of
heroic language-martyrs to establish Bengali as the national language. The impact of the language
movement is far-reaching. It awakened Bengali nationalism and laid the foundation for the 1971 freedom
struggle. 21st February is now recognized as International Mother Language Day which reminds of the
importance of preserving the dignity of all mother languages of the world. The language movement was
not just a struggle for a language; it was a struggle for freedom, identity, and cultural rights. This
movement is etched in our consciousness and will inspire generations to come.
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Umar, B. (1971). Purbo Banglar Bhasha Andolon O Totkalin Rajniti 1 [The Language Movement of East
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Choudhury, A. R. (2023). Swayattashasan, Swadhikar o Swadhinata. Adittitya Publication. Accessed

December 4, 2024

Al Helal, B. (2003). Bhasha andoloner itihas [History of the Language Movement]. Agamee Prakashani.
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