Bangladesh’s Political Crisis: Unraveling Historical Tensions and New Alliances

A Return to Turbulence in Bangladesh

As of December 20, 2025, Bangladesh finds itself amidst a significant political crisis fueled by multiple historical and contemporary factors. The death of radical student leader Sharif Osman Hadi, escalating links between Dhaka and Islamabad, and growing concerns in New Delhi about Pakistan’s intelligence activity have reignited longstanding animosities tied to the nation’s tumultuous past.

Historical Context: The Liberation War of 1971

To understand the current unrest in Bangladesh, one must revisit the historical Liberation War of 1971. During this tumultuous period, the Pakistan Army, supported by local militias known as the Razakars, inflicted widespread violence against the Bangladeshi population. The roots of these tensions extend deep into the fabric of Bangladesh’s political and social landscape, influencing events even today.

Who Were the Razakars?

The Razakars emerged as an auxiliary force during the Liberation War, with origins tracing back to earlier paramilitary groups formed post-Partition in 1947. Established in Bangladesh in 1971, they consisted mainly of pro-Pakistan supporters, including Urdu-speaking Bihari Muslims and socio-economically vulnerable individuals. They became crucial collaborators for the Pakistan Army, helping to identify independence supporters and facilitating military operations.

Atrocities Committed: A Dark Chapter

The legacy of the Razakars and their collaboration with the Pakistan Army is marked by severe atrocities, including mass killings, forced disappearances, and widespread sexual violence. An estimated civilian death toll ranges significantly, highlighting the brutality of these actions, with many minority communities bearing the brunt of the violence. The term "Razakar" has since become synonymous with betrayal and cruelty in Bangladesh.

The Aftermath: A Quest for Justice

Following independence, Bangladesh’s new government sought to address these wartime atrocities. Initial steps included the Bangladesh Collaborators (Special Tribunals) Order of 1972 and other legal mechanisms aimed at identifying and prosecuting collaborators. Unfortunately, these efforts faced numerous interruptions, particularly after the assassination of founding leader Sheikh Mujibur Rahman in 1975. Military governments that followed reopened political avenues for former collaborators, contributing to the resurgence of these harmful ideologies.

Current Dynamics: Strategic Alliances and Unrest

Resurgence of Radical Groups

Fast forward to 2025, the geopolitical landscape has shifted dramatically. Following the fall of Sheikh Hasina’s government in August 2024, reports indicate an alarming thaw in relations between Bangladesh and Pakistan. This has raised concerns in India about increasing militarized presence and intelligence operations within Bangladesh.

Pakistan’s Intelligence Footprint

Recent intelligence reports suggest the establishment of a dedicated ISI Special Cell within the Pakistani High Commission in Dhaka, intended to enhance surveillance capabilities in the Bay of Bengal region. Allegations of coordinated intelligence-sharing efforts between this Pakistani cell and Bangladesh’s intelligence agencies amplify fears of renewed instability.

Current Unrest: A "Managed" Crisis?

The death of Sharif Osman Hadi has sparked violent protests in Bangladesh, leading many to speculate about the orchestrated nature of the unrest. Attacks on foreign diplomatic missions and media offices have led to increased scrutiny of the current government’s ability to maintain order. Observers believe that radical elements may be strategically exacerbating tensions to influence upcoming elections.

Conclusion: The Cycle of History and its Impact

The challenges facing Bangladesh today are deeply intertwined with historical grievances from the 1971 Liberation War. While the Razakars may no longer exist as a formal group, their ideological successors thrive amidst new geopolitical shifts. The resurgence of radical groups and burgeoning links to Pakistan present not just a domestic crisis but a regional security concern.

Understanding the Implications

Addressing the current political crisis requires grappling with these complex historical narratives—recognizing that the shadows of the past continue to shape the future of Bangladesh. Such awareness is crucial for both the nation and its neighbors as they navigate a politically and strategically perilous landscape.

For further exploration of the historical context surrounding the Razakars and the Liberation War, visit BBC’s coverage of the Bangladesh Liberation War and Human Rights Watch’s report on political violence in Bangladesh.

By understanding these elements, we can engage more thoughtfully with the evolving situation in Bangladesh and its broader implications for regional stability.