Today, Bangladesh celebrates its 54th Victory Day, a momentous occasion marking its hard-fought independence from Pakistan in 1971. This year’s commemoration carries profound significance, arriving in the wake of a seismic political transformation. Just months ago, Sheikh Hasina’s 16-year tenure as Prime Minister came to an abrupt end after a massive, nationwide movement demanded accountability, democratic reform, and justice. Her ousting has ignited fresh hope for a nation long caught between aspirations for freedom and the constraints of authoritarian governance. Victory Day 2024 is not just a reflection on past triumphs but a pivotal moment for charting a democratic future.
A Testament to Independence and Resilience
Victory Day is deeply embedded in the consciousness of Bangladeshis. On December 16, 1971, the nation was born after a brutal nine-month Liberation War that saw millions perish, countless others displaced, and the land itself scarred by violence. The conflict was not merely a battle for territory but a fight for linguistic rights, self-determination, and justice. This triumph etched the ideals of freedom, equality, and justice into the country’s foundation.
Yet, more than five decades later, the spirit of 1971 has often been tested by political turbulence, corruption, and authoritarian tendencies. The fall of Sheikh Hasina’s government in 2024 serves as a stark reminder that the struggle to uphold these ideals is ongoing. It highlights the enduring tension between the promises of democracy and the realities of governance.
Sheikh Hasina’s Fall: The End of an Era
Sheikh Hasina, leader of the Awami League, leaves behind a complicated legacy. Her tenure witnessed significant economic strides, including infrastructure megaprojects and GDP growth, yet it was marred by allegations of election manipulation, suppression of dissent, and erosion of democratic norms. Her government’s reliance on law enforcement agencies and ruling party operatives to stifle opposition drew widespread criticism at home and abroad.
The tipping point came in mid-2024, as a groundswell of protests swept the nation. Spearheaded by students and joined by citizens across socioeconomic classes, the movement was a reaction to years of disenfranchisement, economic inequality, and escalating human rights abuses. Demonstrators demanded free and fair elections, accountability for extrajudicial killings, and a cessation of corruption. The government’s response was brutal: over 20 days of unrest, nearly 2,000 protesters were killed, and more than 20,000 were injured in violent crackdowns by security forces.
Despite these measures, the movement gained momentum, culminating in Sheikh Hasina’s resignation and her controversial decision to seek asylum in India. Her departure has not only reshaped Bangladesh’s political landscape but also strained relations with India, a neighbor often perceived as meddling in the country’s internal affairs.
India-Bangladesh Relations: A Strained Brotherhood
India has long played a complex role in Bangladesh’s history. While its support during the 1971 Liberation War was instrumental, subsequent decades have been marked by mutual suspicion and discord. Disputes over water sharing, trade imbalances, and border security have frequently strained ties. Sheikh Hasina’s tenure deepened this ambivalence, as her close alignment with Indian interests often provoked domestic criticism.
India’s decision to grant asylum to Hasina following her ouster has further complicated matters. For many Bangladeshis, this move underscores India’s perceived overreach in domestic politics. Anti-India sentiment, already prevalent among certain factions, has gained renewed traction. Protesters explicitly called for recalibrating bilateral relations, demanding a partnership rooted in equality rather than dominance.
These tensions mirror broader concerns about state sovereignty. Hasina’s government, despite its rhetoric of nationalism, was frequently accused of prioritizing Indian interests over Bangladesh’s autonomy. Moving forward, the challenge lies in forging a foreign policy that safeguards national interests while fostering regional cooperation.
The State vs. The Nation: Revisiting Foundational Ideals
The political upheaval of 2024 has reignited a critical debate about the distinction between the “state” and the “nation.” In Bangladesh, the nation represents the collective will, identity, and aspirations of its people—a concept born from the Liberation War. The state, by contrast, is the political machinery responsible for governance. Over the decades, this machinery has often diverged from the ideals of the nation, with successive governments using patriotism as a tool to justify authoritarianism.
Sheikh Hasina’s regime exemplified this dissonance. Her administration frequently invoked the legacy of 1971 to legitimize its actions, even as it suppressed dissent and centralized power. This paradox is emblematic of a broader failure to align the state’s practices with the nation’s democratic aspirations.
To bridge this gap, Bangladesh must prioritize justice, inclusivity, and accountability in governance. Reimagining the state as a servant of the nation, rather than its master, is essential for restoring public trust and ensuring that the sacrifices of both 1971 and 2024 are honored.
Reform Commissions: Laying the Groundwork for Change
In the aftermath of Sheikh Hasina’s ouster on August 5, following widespread public protests that forced her to secretly flee to India, a new interim government was formed under the leadership of Nobel Laureate Dr. Muhammad Yunus. This pivotal political shift resulted from a broad-based movement in which students and ordinary citizens, long oppressed under Hasina’s rule, rallied behind Dr. Yunus—who had suffered brutal persecution and abuse at her hands. With Hasina’s departure, Dr. Yunus was chosen to lead the caretaker government, marking the beginning of a new chapter in the nation’s political landscape.
Under Dr. Yunus’s leadership, the interim government has undertaken bold measures to address deep-seated structural issues. Several reform commissions were established to propose sweeping changes in critical areas, including the constitution, electoral system, public administration, and police reform. These initiatives are viewed as crucial for restoring the nation’s democratic processes and ensuring a more equitable and transparent governance system. Their efforts represent a key step toward rebuilding the nation’s political stability and strengthening democratic institutions.
Constitutional Reform
The Constitutional Reform Commission has proposed significant changes, including the repeal of the 15th Amendment, which concentrated power in the executive branch. Key recommendations include introducing a bicameral parliament, implementing proportional representation in elections, and reducing the Prime Minister’s executive powers. A major proposal is the reinstatement of the caretaker government system to ensure impartial elections. The commission is engaging with stakeholders and political parties to build consensus, though the success of these reforms will depend on overcoming deep political divisions.
Electoral Reform
The Election Reform Commission is focusing on addressing controversies surrounding Bangladesh’s electoral process. Proposed changes include the abolition of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs), the removal of political symbols from local elections, and the extension of voting rights to expatriates. Additionally, the commission seeks to strengthen the independence of the Election Commission, which has faced allegations of political interference. These reforms are expected to be finalized by December 31, 2024.
Police and Public Administration Reforms
The Police Reform Commission is focused on improving accountability, professionalism, and public service. Proposals include eliminating political bias in police verifications for government jobs and enhancing the welfare of police personnel. Meanwhile, public administration reforms aim to tackle corruption, nepotism, and inefficiency, with an emphasis on decentralization and transparent recruitment processes.
While these reform efforts represent a promising start, doubts remain about whether they will garner the political consensus necessary for successful implementation. The interim government has emphasized the importance of collaboration among political parties to ensure the success of these initiatives.
Human Rights: A Spotlight on Accountability
Sheikh Hasina’s tenure and the recent protests have drawn intense scrutiny from the UN and international human rights organizations. Amnesty International, Human Rights Watch, and others have documented a litany of abuses, including extrajudicial killings, enforced disappearances, and suppression of free speech. These violations reflect a broader erosion of democratic norms and the rule of law.
The international community has a crucial role to play in supporting Bangladesh’s transition. Global actors, including the United Nations and regional powers, must prioritize human rights in their engagement with Dhaka. The post-Hasina era presents an opportunity to reset these relationships, emphasizing transparency, justice, and democratic reform.
Economic Progress at What Cost!
While Sheikh Hasina’s government is often lauded for its economic achievements, the reality is more nuanced. Infrastructure megaprojects like the Padma Bridge symbolize progress but were often accompanied by allegations of corruption and inefficiency. Moreover, the benefits of economic growth were unevenly distributed, leaving rural communities and marginalized groups behind.
Socially, the regime’s authoritarian approach stifled innovation and creativity. Academic institutions were subject to political interference, independent media faced relentless pressure, and cultural expressions were tightly controlled. This suppression not only curtailed individual freedoms but also hindered the nation’s intellectual and artistic development.
Rebuilding a society that values creativity and critical thought will be vital for Bangladesh’s long-term progress. A free press, vibrant academia, and empowered civil society are essential components of a thriving democracy.
Global Lessons: Bangladesh in a Broader Context
Bangladesh’s political transformation is part of a larger global narrative. From the Arab Spring to pro-democracy movements in Myanmar and Hong Kong, citizens worldwide have risen against authoritarian regimes. These movements underscore the power of collective action but also highlight the challenges of achieving lasting reform.
Bangladesh’s experience offers valuable lessons. Unity, strategic planning, and a clear vision are critical for sustaining momentum. At the same time, the international community must provide consistent support to ensure that these movements translate into meaningful change.
A Path Forward: Rebuilding Democracy
As Bangladesh embarks on a new chapter, the challenges of rebuilding democracy are immense. Establishing free and fair elections, reforming institutions, and addressing social and economic inequalities are urgent priorities. Grassroots movements and civil society organizations will play a pivotal role in ensuring accountability and fostering democratic culture.
Education is another cornerstone of this effort. By promoting political literacy and critical thinking, Bangladesh can empower its citizens to actively engage in governance. Addressing voter apathy and encouraging participation will be essential for building a robust democracy.
Victory Day 2024: A Call to Action
Victory Day 2024 is not just a celebration of the past; it is a call to action for the future. As Bangladesh reflects on its history, it must also confront the challenges that lie ahead. The sacrifices made in 1971 and 2024 alike demand a renewed commitment to justice, equality, and freedom.
The road ahead will be difficult. Rebuilding trust, reforming institutions, and addressing deep-seated grievances will require courage and collaboration. But if Bangladesh’s history teaches us anything, it is that its people possess an extraordinary resilience and an unwavering belief in the promise of freedom. On this Victory Day, the nation stands at a crossroads, ready to redefine its future with hope and determination.