The Dhaka University massacre [Dhaka, Bangladesh]

[ Reported as seen ]

Introduction

The Dhaka University Massacre remains etched in the collective memory of Bangladesh as one of the most tragic and haunting incidents in the nation’s history. Occurring on February 21, 1952, the massacre was a pivotal event in the fight for language rights and cultural identity. This article delves into the details of the Dhaka University Massacre, its historical significance, and the profound impact it had on Bangladesh’s language movement and the struggle for independence.

Background and Historical Context
In the aftermath of the partition of India in 1947, East Bengal (which later became East Pakistan and eventually Bangladesh) became a part of Pakistan. However, linguistic and cultural differences between East and West Pakistan led to a growing sense of alienation among the Bengali-speaking population in the East. The demand for recognizing Bengali as one of the national languages of Pakistan gained momentum, as Bengalis felt marginalized in a predominantly Urdu-speaking West Pakistan.

The Language Movement and its Intensification

The Language Movement, a peaceful protest for linguistic rights, gained momentum in East Bengal. Students of Dhaka University played a vital role in advocating for the recognition of Bengali as an official language. On February 21, 1952, a significant demonstration was planned at the university campus to protest the imposition of Urdu as the sole national language.

The Dhaka University Massacre

On that fateful day, students from various educational institutions gathered at the Dhaka University premises to participate in the protest. The government responded with brute force, deploying police and paramilitary forces to suppress the peaceful demonstration. Tragically, violence erupted as the security forces opened fire on the unarmed protesters.

The gunfire claimed the lives of several students, including Rafiq Uddin Ahmed, Abdul Jabbar, Abul Barkat, Abdus Salam, and Shafiur Rahman. Their sacrifice and the bloodshed that followed symbolized the unwavering determination of the Bengali people in their fight for language rights and cultural identity.

Killing of the staff and the students
During the Dhaka University Massacre, numerous students and staff members fell victim to acts of violence and cruelty. The Non-cooperation movement, led by the “Independent Bangladesh Students Movement Council,” operated from Jahrul Hoque Hall at Dhaka University. However, this student hall became the primary target of Operation Searchlight. By March 25, all leaders of Chhatra League had vacated the hall, and it is estimated that approximately 200 students were killed there, according to Professor Dr. K.M. Munim.

Jagannath Hall also witnessed a horrific attack. After midnight, the army launched an assault on the hall, using mortars and engaging in continuous firing. They entered through the north and south gates and indiscriminately targeted students in every room, resulting in the deaths of around 34 students at that time. Some students from Jagannath Hall who resided in Ramna Kali Bari also lost their lives, with approximately 5-6 casualties, including Ramonimohon Bhattacharjee. Several guests of the students staying in those dorms, such as Helal from Bhairab College, Babul Paul from Bajitpur College, Baddruddojha from Jagannath Hall, Jibon Sarkar, Mostaq, Bacchu, and Amar from Netrokona, were also killed. Archer Blood, the then-consul general of the US in Dhaka, mentioned in his book “The Cruel Birth of Bangladesh” that a fire was ignited at Rokeya Hall (girls’ dormitory), and when the students attempted to escape, the military opened fire. The military control room and army unit 88 estimated a total of 300 student deaths from their conversations.

The massacre did not spare the staff members either. The convoy that attacked Sergeant Jahurul Huq Hall initially targeted the staff and killed a guard who was protecting the British Council building. In addition, Shirajul Huq, Ali Hossain, Shohorab Ali Gaji, and Abdul Majid, who worked at the University teachers lounge, were killed. At Bgum Rokeya Hall, Chottor Ahmed Ali, Abdul Khalec, Nomi, Md. Solaiman Khan, Md. Nurul Islam, Md Hafizuddin, and Md. Chunnu Miya, along with their families, lost their lives. The convoy that attacked Shahid Minar and Bangla Academy also targeted Shahidullah Hall, associated teachers’ houses, and the residence of Madhushudhan De, the owner of Madhur Canteen. Md. Sadeq, a teacher at University Laboratory School, was killed at Building 11. The army left behind approximately 50 dead bodies, including some police officers who had escaped from Rajarbag Police line, Bengali EPR members guarding the President’s House, and members of the general public from Nilkhet Basti found on the roof of University Residential Building-23.

Furthermore, the Pakistan Army deliberately destroyed three temples between March 25 and 27: the Gurdwara (Sikh) associated with the Arts building, Ramna Kali Temple, and Ramna Shiva Temple, which stood opposite Shahid Minar. At least 85 people were intentionally murdered in Ramna Kali Temple before it was demolished. That night, several staff members of the Philosophy department, including Khagen De and his son Motilal De, University staff such as Shushil Chandra De, Bodhiram, Dakkhuram, Vimroy, Moniram, Jaharlala Rajvar, Monvaran Roy, Plumber Rajvar, and Shankar Kuri, were killed.

Attack on girls
Attack on the girls’ dormitory stands as one of the most horrifying incidents during the period. Archer Blood, the then-consul general of the United States in Dhaka, recounted in his book “The Cruel Birth of Bangladesh” that a fire was deliberately started at Rokeya Hall, the girls’ dormitory. As the students tried to escape, the military opened fire on them. Additionally, on November 10, 1971, a group of armed criminals attacked Rokeya Hall, holding 30 girls captive for two hours and also targeting the Provost House. It is worth noting that in 1971, there were military establishments in close proximity to Rokeya Hall, making it highly unlikely that the attack on the university girls’ hostel could have occurred without their knowledge for such a prolonged period.

Further evidence of the atrocities committed in the girls’ dormitory is provided in “Genocide in Bangladesh” by Kalyan Chaudhury. According to the book, on October 7, 1971, Major Aslam and his soldiers raided Rokeya Hall. Days before the raid, Major Aslam had visited the hostel accompanied by five soldiers, requesting girls who could perform at a function in Tejgaon Cantonment. The superintendent, acting responsibly, denied the request, explaining that most of the girls had already left due to the disturbances. Unsatisfied, Major Aslam left. However, on October 7, around 8 p.m., Major Aslam and his men forcefully entered the hostel. The soldiers broke down doors, dragged the girls out, and subjected them to rape and torture in front of the helpless superintendent. The entire ordeal was carried out with impunity and in open view, shocking even the newspaper Dawn, which violated military censorship to publish the story. Following the liberation, approximately 300 girls were rescued within seven days from various locations near Dhaka, where they had been taken and held captive by Pakistani army personnel. On December 26, the Red Cross, with the assistance of the Mukti Bahini and allied forces, rescued 55 emaciated and traumatized girls on the brink of mental derangement from Pakistani army hideouts in Narayanganj, Dhaka Cantonment, and other surrounding areas.

Academic activities and 14 December
Academic activities during 1971 were significantly impacted by the prevailing circumstances of the Bangladesh Liberation War. In April, the Military Governor of East Pakistan, Tikka Khan, ordered department heads to resume work, with other teachers joining on June 1, and classes scheduled to commence on August 2. The university took measures to clean the dormitories, eliminating any signs of destruction, in order to present a conducive educational environment to the international community. Due to the national crisis, all exams were postponed. As the intensity of the war escalated until September, student attendance in classes also increased. Many students who had joined the Mukti Bahini (Liberation Forces) resorted to blasting hand grenades near the university and swiftly entering classrooms, making it difficult for the army to apprehend them.

On December 14, 1971, a horrific massacre took place. The Pakistan government had realized by then that it was on the verge of losing the war. When Dhaka University reopened on July 2, 1971, teachers who collaborated with the Pakistani army gathered on Nawab Abdul Gani Road to compile a list of intellectuals supporting the Independence movement. During this time, the Pakistan Army secretly trained a group of students from madrasas, colleges, and universities who were sympathetic to their cause. This group came to be known as Al-Badar. As the December war approached, members of Al-Badar emerged and selectively targeted Bengali professors, doctors, engineers, and other intellectuals. Many of those who were killed were faculty members at Dhaka University.

On December 14, 1971, more than 200 Bengali intellectuals, including professors, journalists, doctors, artists, engineers, and writers, were abducted from their homes in Dhaka by the Al-Badr militia and the Pakistan Army. This tragic event is known as the 1971 killing of Bengali intellectuals. Among the victims were notable figures such as novelist Shahidullah Kaiser and playwright Munier Choudhury. The abducted intellectuals were blindfolded and taken to various torture cells in locations such as Mirpur, Mohammadpur, Nakhalpara, and Rajarbagh. Subsequently, they were executed en masse, with notable incidents occurring in Rayerbazar and Mirpur. In remembrance of the martyred intellectuals, December 14 is observed in Bangladesh as Shaheed Buddhijibi Dibosh, or the Day of the Martyred Intellectuals. This day serves as a solemn reminder of the heinous crimes committed against those who played a vital role in shaping the intellectual fabric of Bangladesh.
Aftermath and Impact

The Dhaka University Massacre ignited a wave of outrage and protests across East Bengal. The incident served as a catalyst for the Language Movement, transforming it into a larger movement for autonomy and self-determination. The sacrifice of the martyrs galvanized the Bengali population, leading to a strengthened resolve to secure their rights and eventually fight for independence.

The Bengali Language Movement, propelled by the events of February 21, 1952, became a pivotal force in shaping the political landscape of East Pakistan. It laid the foundation for the broader struggle for self-rule and ultimately played a crucial role in the formation of an independent Bangladesh.

Legacy and Commemoration

The Dhaka University Massacre holds immense historical and cultural significance in Bangladesh. The day of the massacre, February 21, is now observed as International Mother Language Day, recognized by the United Nations. It serves as a solemn reminder of the sacrifices made by the language martyrs and their unwavering commitment to the preservation of Bengali language and culture.

The massacre’s legacy is visible in the pride and importance attached to the Bengali language within Bangladesh. It remains a symbol of cultural identity, resilience, and the indomitable spirit of the Bengali people.

Hindus killed in this massacre
Jagannath Hall

Ex-Provost and famous Professor of philosophy Dr Gobindra Chandra Dev, with his Muslim adopted daughter’s husband
Professor Jyotirmoy Guhathakurta, provost
Assistant house tutor Anudoipayon Bhattacharja
Guests of students

Ramonimohon Bhattacharjee
Jibon Sarkar of Netrokona
Bacchu of Netrokona
Amar of Netrokona
Jagannath Hall: students

Upendra Nath Ray: Final Year MS Physics (Village: Guliara, Dinajpur)
Kartik Sheel: Final Year MA English (Kalakhali, Barisal)
Kishori Mohan Sarkar: First Part MA English (Paragram, Dhaka)
Keshab Chandra Haoladar: First Part MS Mathematics (Kachabalia, Barisal)
Gano Pati Haldar: First Second Third Year, Chemistry (Ghatichora, Barisal)
Ziban Krishna Sarkar: Final Part MS Chemistry (Kulpotak, Mymensingh)
Noni Gopal Bhaumik: Second Year Student (Shyam Gram, Comilla)
Nirmal Kumar Ray: First Part MCom Student
Niranjan Prosad Saha: First Part MS Physics
Niranjan Haldar: Final Part MS Physics (Shikarpur, Barisal)
Prodip Narayan Ray Chaudhury: First Part MA student
Barda Kanto Tarafdar: Second Year Student (Khepamol, Mymensingh)
Bidhan Chandra Ghose: Third Year, English (Kacharipara, Pabna)
Bimol Chandra Ray: Third Year Statistics (Balirtek, Manikganj)
Murari Mohan Biswas: M Ed (Ektarpur, Kustia)
Mrinal Kanti Bose: Final Part Economics (Muriagora, Faridpur)
Manoranjan Biswas: Second Year, Mathematics (Satpar, Faridpur)
Ronoda Prosad Ray: Second Year, Mathematics (Kosba, Faridpur)
Ramoni Mohan Bhattacharya: First Part MA, Philosophy (Asta gram, Mymnsingh)
Rakhal Ray: Third Year Mathematics (Chandidwar, Comilla)
Shib Kumar Das: Second Year, Soil Science (Patuary, Faridpur)
Rupendra Nath Sen: Second Year, Chemistry (Bhanga, Faridpur)
Santos Chandra Ray: Final Part MS, Botany (Boribari, Dhaka)
Shishutosh Datta Chaudhury: Second Year, English (Ambor, Sylhet)
Satya Ranjan Das: Third Year, Chemistry (Bajonba, Dhaka)
Sujit Datta: Third Year Student (Palash, Dhaka)
Subhash Chandra Chakrobarty: Second Year, Statistics (Mymensingh)
Susil Chandra Das: Third Year, Soil Science (Barail, Comilla)
Swapan Chaudhury: Third Year, Statistics (Dhemla, Chittagong)
Hari Narayan Das: Third Year, Sociology (Narsingdi, Dhaka)
Ajit Ray Chaudhury: No information
Niranjan Chanda: No info
Prabir Pal: First Part, MS (Amlapara, Mymensingh)
Bhabotosh Bhowmick:Second Year MS Chemistry (Chandpur)
Satya Ranjan Nag
Subrata Saha
Staff and guests of Jagannath Hall

Madhu Sudan Dey (Madhu Da)
Khagendra Chandra Dey: staff philosophy dept
Sushil Chandra Dey: Pump workman, Engineering dept Dhaka University
Moti Lal Dey:
Dasu Ram: Gardener, VC Resident
Man Bharan Ray: Staff NIPA
Raj Bhar: Electrician, Engineering Dept, DU
Priyo Nath Ray: Gatekeeper
Sunil Chandra Das (Janitor)
Dukhi Ram Mandal: (Janitor)
Shib Pada Kuri (janitor)
Rajen Brahmachari: The spiritual guru of Shib bari
Jahar Lal Rajbhar: Gardener, Botany dept
Saroja Brahmachari: Spiritual guru of Shib bari
Madhab Chandra Das Brahmachari: Spiritual guru of Shib bari
Ram Dhoni Brahmachari: Spiritual guru of Shib bari
Shankar Kuri: Brother of Shibpada Kuri
Swami Mukundo Nando Saraswati: Spiritual guru of Shib bari
Bheer Ray
Bodhi Ram
Mani Ram
Unknown Location

Staff of Philosophy department Khagen De and his son Motilal De
University staff Shushil Chandra De
Bodhiram
Dakkhuram
Vimroy
Moniram
Jaharlala Rajvar
Monvaran Roy
Rajvar
Shankar Kuri
Conclusion

The Dhaka University Massacre stands as a tragic chapter in the history of Bangladesh, but it also serves as a testament to the power of language and the determination of a people in their pursuit of justice and self-expression. The sacrifice of the martyrs on February 21, 1952, fuelled the flames of the Language Movement, leaving an indelible mark on the path towards independence. Today, the memory of the Dhaka University Massacre continues to inspire and unite the people of Bangladesh, reminding them of the significance of their language, culture, and the hard-fought battles for their rights.

The Dhaka University Massacre stands as a stark reminder of the price that was paid for linguistic freedom and cultural identity. It serves as a solemn call to safeguard and promote linguistic diversity and inclusivity in societies worldwide.

In the aftermath of the massacre, the demands of the Language Movement gained widespread support, and the pressure on the Pakistani government to recognize Bengali as an official language intensified. Eventually, this led to the historic Language Movement Day resolution on February 29, 1956, which granted official status to Bengali alongside Urdu in Pakistan.

The events of the Dhaka University Massacre not only propelled the Language Movement forward but also played a significant role in fueling the broader movement for self-determination. The Bengali struggle for autonomy reached its pinnacle in 1971 when Bangladesh declared its independence from Pakistan, following a brutal war. The sacrifices made during the Language Movement became intertwined with the quest for an independent nation, and the memory of the Dhaka University Massacre became a source of inspiration and resilience for the people of Bangladesh.

Today, the Dhaka University Massacre holds a significant place in the collective memory of Bangladesh. The Shaheed Minar, a monument erected to honor the language martyrs, stands at the Dhaka University campus, serving as a symbol of remembrance and reverence. Every year on February 21, people from all walks of life gather at the Shaheed Minar to pay tribute to the martyrs, laying wreaths and offering prayers.

Furthermore, International Mother Language Day, observed globally on February 21, stands as a testament to the global recognition of the importance of linguistic diversity and the need to preserve and protect mother tongues. The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) designated this day as a means to promote linguistic and cultural diversity and to promote multilingual education.

In conclusion, the Dhaka University Massacre of 1952 remains a haunting and pivotal event in Bangladesh’s history. The sacrifice of the language martyrs and the violence unleashed upon peaceful demonstrators were instrumental in shaping the Language Movement and the broader struggle for independence. The memory of the Dhaka University Massacre continues to inspire and remind the people of Bangladesh of the importance of their language, culture, and the ongoing quest for justice, equality, and self-expression. It stands as a testament to the power of language as a catalyst for change and the resilience of a people united in their pursuit of freedom and identity.

Références

1. “Language Movement: Dynamics of National Identity and Politics in Bangladesh” by Syed Anwar Hussain

2. “Ekatturer Diary” by Jahanara Imam

3. “The Unfinished Memoirs” by Sheikh Mujibur Rahman

4. “1952: The War of the Marching Millions” by Anisuzzaman

5. “The History of the Bengali Language” by Dinesh Chandra Sen