Language and Political Schism: Analyzing the Root Causes of East Pakistan’s Separation

Abstract

This article analyzes the impact of language policy on the political schism between East and West Pakistan during 1947-1958, which ultimately led the establishment of Bangladesh in 1971. The central government’s imposition of Urdu as national language overlooked the linguistic and cultural identity of Bengal as well as Bengalis. This decision provoked extensive protests and riots, resulting in a profound political divide between East and West Pakistan. This study seeks to elucidate how language issue led to political marginalization and intensified the desire for autonomy in East Pakistan. It answers the question, in what ways did the enforcement of Urdu as the national language exacerbate the political divide and lead to the eventual secession of East Pakistan? This study uses analytical research methodology through the examination of primary sources including historical records and policy documents and governmental policies while in secondary sources political discourses and assessment of literature is used. The enforcement of Urdu as national language overlooked the linguistic identity of the Bengali-speaking majority in East Pakistan, engendering alienation and discontent. This strategy marginalized a substantial segment of the population and served as a cause for socio-political instability. The research underscores the significance of inclusive language policies in heterogeneous communities.