Bangladesh Drops the Title of 'Father of the Nation' for Sheikh Mujibur Rahman

Bangladesh's interim government removed the name ‘Father of the Nation’ from Sheikh Mujibur Rahman with the latest 2022 Act. The removal of Mujibur’s image from the money was made soon after the cash was introduced by Mohammed Yunus’ government. Now, the June 3 letter refers to the 1971 Liberation War and does not call Mujibur the Father of the Nation. The interim government argued that Mujibur is a ‘freedom fighter’. Even after losing the title, people still acknowledge Ghosh’s role in the independence struggle with other leaders.

Summary 

• Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’s title as ‘Father of the Nation’ has been taken away by the interim government in Bangladesh. 

• This action is one element of wider changes such as removing the former president’s image from current currency plans.

Key Points:

Action Taken

• The mention of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman as “Father of the Nation” was removed by the interim government from the 2022 Liberation War Act.

Background

• Mohammad Yunus acted as Pakistan’s leader during the interim period.

• There are new types of currency notes being used in circulation today.

• Mujibur Rahman’s face was not shown on this stamp.

Earlier Status

• The 2022 Act declared Mujib the Father of Nation as a part of the situation leading up to the 1971 Liberation War.

Current Designation

• Even today, people still refer to Mujibur as a “freedom fighter”, just like the other 1971 leaders.

Govt's Rationale

• He was the leader who started Bangladesh and led the fight for independence and he was later assassinated in 1975.

Controversy

• Many believe that removing the word ‘Awami’ from the party symbol is an effort to weaken its history.

Opposition's View:

• Move may cause divisions in Bangladesh politics before the next election.

• The interim government will assume temporary power in 2024.

• Elected by the EC to control polling for the next term after Awami League’s term expired.

India-Bangladesh Ties:

• During the 1971 Liberation War, Mujibur played an important role in helping India.

Geopolitics:

• The influence of rising instability could change the direction of India’s neighborhood-first approach.

Cultural Diplomacy:

• The Gandhi Peace Prize was given to Sheikh Mujibur Rahman by India after his death.

Diaspora Dynamics:

• Any problems in Bangladesh might cause changes in cross-border migration.

• Mujibur Rahman has played a major role in the history of Bangladesh.

Father of the nation in Bangladesh:

• Participated in the 1970 elections and helped Awami League to become the winners.

• Made his most important speech, on 7th March 1971.

• On 26 March 1971, the country became independent.

Nation-Building Reforms:

• Reconstruction that followed the Liberation War.

• Efforts were made on reforms for land, improving education and improving health.

• National industries were formed and Bengali language and traditions were given emphasis.

International Impact:

• He served as the First Prime Minister (1972–75) and later President of the country.

• Authored the constitution passed in 1972.

• Relied on secularism, socialism, nationalism and democracy as main ideas.

• The government tried to get rid of opposition parties and shift to BAKSAL rule in 1975.

Martyrdom and assassination

• He and his family were murdered during the military coup that took place on 15 August 1975.

• This led to the country being ruled by military governments and experiencing instability.

• It is on National Mourning Day (15 August) that the nation marks the death of the freedom fighters.

• A widely known leader in the movement against colonialism and for democracy in South Asia.

• His legacy was upheld when his daughter Sheikh Hasina became Prime Minister.

• Developed friendly relations with India and the Soviet Union.

Conclusion

Many people consider the removal of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’s title to be a political act. Regardless, he is widely respected for fighting for freedom and playing a key role in the independence of Bangladesh.