The 1971 Liberation War, also known as the Bangladesh War of Independence, was fought between East and West Pakistan. East Pakistanis felt marginalized and mistreated by the West Pakistani-dominated administration, prompting protests and, ultimately, a military crackdown. In response, India invaded on behalf of the East Pakistanis, escalating the conflict into a full-fledged war.
During the conflict, the Indian Army and the Bengali guerrilla groups Mukti Bahini battled against the Pakistan Army. The conflict concluded on December 16, 1971, when Pakistani troops in East Pakistan surrendered, culminating in the establishment of the new nation of Bangladesh.

The conflict was a watershed moment in Indian subcontinent history, leading to the demise of Pakistan’s military rule. It also had a significant influence on Bengali identity and culture, with the conflict being remembered as Liberation Day in Bangladesh every year.