An Army for the new Nation - The East Bengal Regiment
A Bloody Transition to a New Beginning Amidst Chaos
The journey to Dhaka was marked by trials and triumphs,
encapsulating the transformation of a regiment and the hopes of a nascent
nation. Emerging from the crucible of over seven decades of evolution, the
intrepid soldiers of this undefeated regiment mirrored the resilience and
aspirations of their motherland. From the Second World War to the Liberation
War of 1971, their experience spanned fierce battles, internal law and order
crises, and the struggle for public safety. In each instance, they rose to the occasion,
becoming a beacon of strength and stability.
A Journey Fraught with Peril
As the partition of India loomed, the Indian Pioneer Corps
transitioned into Pakistan Pioneer Companies, setting their sights on Dhaka as
their new home. On 4 September 1947, the journey began from Jalna, marked by
hope but shadowed by the chaos of partition. By 7 September, the convoy of
soldiers departed Mumbai, passing through riot-ravaged territories, witnessing
the grim aftermath of communal violence. The train's arrival at Fulbaria
Station on 17 September 1947 marked the end of their arduous journey, though no
welcoming party awaited them.
Blood Spilled on the Way Home
A poignant incident occurred at Santahar Station,
underscoring the challenges of transition. Captain Ghani, while addressing a
gathering, rushed to rejoin the moving train, unaware that his wife, Begum
Asiya Ghani, was struggling to open the door. In his haste, he kicked the door
open, inadvertently injuring her forehead. Blood streamed from the deep cut,
halting the train as the convoy doctor administered first aid. Despite her
injury, the indomitable spirit of Begum Asiya became emblematic of the sacrifices
made during this transition. She later recounted the episode with a mix of humour
and pride, symbolizing the resilience required for this new beginning.
A Chaotic Arrival and Uncertain Beginnings
Upon arrival, the convoy discovered that the provincial
government of East Pakistan had not been informed of their movement. Captain
Ghani, undeterred, led a delegation to the Governor’s House, where they met the
Chief Minister. Taken by surprise, the Chief Minister hastily arranged
temporary accommodations at Peelkhana, an establishment originally meant for
border security forces. Amidst these challenges, the weary troops and their
injured companions found a makeshift home, signalling the start of their new
chapter.
A Regiment Born in Adversity
The lack of preparation for the regiment's arrival reflected
the peripheral status of the military in the post-partition provincial agenda.
However, this adversity only strengthened their resolve. Over the following
months, the troops at Peelkhana began building the foundations of what would
become a formidable fighting force. Captain Ghani’s leadership, combined with
the determination of his officers and men, ensured that the East Bengal
Regiment rose to prominence as a cornerstone of national defence. The journey to Dhaka was not merely a transition of location
but a transformation of identity, purpose, and hope. Amidst the chaos of
partition and the challenges of establishing a new homeland, the East Bengal
Regiment emerged as a symbol of perseverance and renewal. Captain Ghani's
leadership and the sacrifices of those who accompanied him laid the groundwork
for a legacy that continues to inspire, proving that even amidst turmoil, a
bright future can be forged.
A Legacy Forged in Combat
The roots of the East Bengal Regiment trace back to the valour
of the Indian Pioneer Corps during World War II. Having endured over three
years of relentless combat, these soldiers proved their mettle and earned
admiration, dispelling any doubts about their capabilities. Captain Abdul
Ghani, with his unyielding determination, proposed the creation of the East
Bengal Regiment in a comprehensive memorandum that was promptly approved. His
vision became reality with the establishment of the 1st East Bengal Regiment on
15 February 1948, laying the foundation for a legacy steeped in tradition and
excellence.
Destination – Kurmitola: A Testament to Resilience and
Determination
The morning of 18 September 1947 marked the beginning of
another chapter in Captain Ghani’s relentless pursuit to establish a stronghold
for the newly formed regiment. With instructions from the newly constituted
Army Command, he was tasked with identifying a location for a cantonment north
of Dhaka. This would require clearing the dense jungle surrounding the old
airport, where a few hangars and an airstrip stood amidst wilderness—a daunting
task given the complete lack of infrastructure or supply systems. Armed with nothing but hand tools and the indomitable spirit
of his troops, Captain Ghani led his men daily from Peelkhana, walking miles
through dense undergrowth to clear land for what would eventually become Zia
Colony, ISSB, and Daroga Bagicha. The task was monumental, but his leadership
ensured progress, even in the face of adversity.
Building a Cantonment from Scratch
Another company 1407, reorganised by Captain Ghani joined the effort, led by
Captain S.U. Khan, not a Pioneer Corps Officer but dupeted by Pak Army, but could not be accommodated in Peelknana. Together, the troops braved the elements, working tirelessly
in the open air near the old airport to erect barracks and carve out a parade
ground. Their efforts culminated in the construction of a modest cantonment,
complete with basic amenities and a small officers’ mess. Captain Ghani and his
family occupied a humble cottage nearby—likely the first family quarters of the
regiment. This cottage, however, would soon become a place of sorrow. Despite the overwhelming challenges of feeding, clothing,
and paying the troops—who were not yet on the payroll of the Pakistan Army—the
soldiers pressed on. Local villagers extended their support, supplying rations
to sustain the regiment until a formal supply chain was established. The
situation was dire, yet the resolve of the men never wavered.
Preparation for the Flag Raising
By January 1948, additional officers began joining the unit,
and preparations for the formal flag raising on 15 February 1948 were in full
swing. The regiment, still struggling with resources, hosted elaborate dinners
for ministers and high-ranking officials, striving to win their favor and
secure recognition for the regiment. Through sheer determination and ingenuity,
they transformed the jungle into a functioning cantonment, complete with a
parade ground where soldiers proudly rehearsed for the momentous occasion. A Historic Day
On 15 February 1948, amidst great pomp and ceremony, the
Governor of East Pakistan, Sir Frederick Bourne, hoisted the flag of the 1st
East Bengal Regiment at Kurmitola. Present were Brigadier Ayub Khan, cabinet
ministers, and other dignitaries. The event marked a milestone in the
regiment’s journey, symbolizing its readiness to serve the nation.
The Cost of Speaking Truth
Yet, the celebration was marred by an incident that would
sow the seeds of discord. During the post-ceremony tea, Brigadier Ayub Khan
declared, “From now on, Bengali soldiers will speak in Urdu, not Bengali.”
Major M.T. Hussain, the second-in-command, fiercely opposed this directive,
arguing that just as soldiers in West Pakistan spoke Pashto and Urdu, Bengali
soldiers should be allowed to speak their mother tongue. Captain Ghani, unflinching in his commitment to his men and
their cultural identity, stood up and firmly stated, “Sir, we Bengali soldiers
will never speak in Urdu, but in Bengali, our mother tongue.” His words
incensed Ayub Khan, who shouted him down. While there were no immediate
repercussions, this moment of defiance revealed the discriminatory attitudes
that would continue to challenge the regiment and its leadership.
A Legacy of Resilience
The journey to Kurmitola, fraught with challenges and marked
by a lack of resources, stands as a testament to the unyielding determination
of the soldiers. From clearing jungles to building barracks, they overcame
every obstacle with grit and ingenuity. Despite the struggles, they laid the
foundation of a regiment that would serve as a beacon of hope and strength for
generations to come. The story of their perseverance is a powerful reminder of
what can be achieved through unity, resilience, and an unwavering belief in
one’s mission.
Fallout from the Protest: The Legacy of Captain Abdul Ghani
The fallout from Captain Ghani's courageous protest on 15 February 1948 against the imposition of Urdu over Bengali soldiers unfolded as a tragic saga of institutional discrimination. On 1 May 1948, the Pakistan Army’s Commission Review Board, led by a Major General, declared him "unsuitable" to serve as a commissioned officer in the Pakistan Army. This marked the second betrayal of his efforts to secure a regular commission. His initial application in July 1947, as an Emergency Commissioned officer, had been dismissed under the pretext of a late submission—an excuse emblematic of the systemic discrimination he would endure.
From Recognition to Relegation
Despite his pivotal role in establishing the East Bengal
Regiment and being an acting Major during the historic flag-raising on 15
February 1948, Captain Ghani's career took a downward turn. By May 1948, he was
relegated to a temporary Major before being posted as Adjutant of the 39
Pakistan National Guard Battalion in Dinajpur—a clear demotion and removal from
the regiment he had built with sweat and blood.
The soldiers, deeply devoted to their leader, reacted with
anguish and outrage. They rallied, shouting their loyalty to him: "We have followed you this far and come this far. If you leave, we will
leave with you too!" Moved by their loyalty, Captain Ghani calmed the unrest,
addressing them with stoic resolve: "You have traveled this far not for me but for the country. If I am
gone tomorrow, what then? This regiment is not anyone's property or force—it
belongs to the country and its people. Go back to your work. Inshallah, perhaps
I will return one day."
A Relentless Journey of Adversity
Captain Ghani’s life from 1948 to 1953 became a story of
relentless transfers, demotions, and institutional hostility. He was moved
across units, promoted and demoted three times, and forced to endure unbearable
circumstances—all without clear justification. The government's refusal to
outright dismiss him reflected the lack of grounds to do so, but the policies
of discrimination ensured he could never return to the East Bengal Regiment.
Amidst these trials, Captain Ghani channeled his energies
into recruiting for the regiment. Between 1949 and 1952, he spearheaded a mass
movement, traveling across East Pakistan to inspire young men to join the army.
His efforts filled critical manpower gaps in the 1st and 2nd Regiments,
creating a legacy likened to planting seeds for a banyan tree whose shade
future generations would enjoy. Despite the hostility he faced, his commitment
to his people and their future never wavered.
Discharge and Denial
In 1953, Captain Ghani's health deteriorated due to the
extreme conditions he endured. After repeated hospitalizations and unrelenting
transfers, he was discharged on medical grounds on 6 November 1953. Adding
insult to injury, the government denied him a pension, claiming his illness was
unrelated to his service conditions. Only after persistent correspondence did
he receive a one-time gratuity—an inadequate recognition of a career marked by
sacrifice and extraordinary achievement.
A Testament to Excellence
The words of Lt. Col. Sarwar Khan, then Commanding Officer
of the East Bengal Regiment, capture Captain Ghani’s enduring legacy: "He is a young man of towering personality, combining in himself all
the laudable qualities of head and heart… A born leader, a marvellous speaker,
he can control and command respect from all alike. It was due to his initiating
capacity, coupled with genuine patriotic feelings and sincere devotion, that
the East Bengal Regiment was brought into being, the nucleus of the Bengali
Army in Pakistan."
The Spirit of a Legend
Despite facing systemic discrimination, Captain Ghani’s
indomitable spirit never faltered. He transformed every setback into an
opportunity to serve his people, leaving behind a legacy that shaped the East
Bengal Regiment and, by extension, the modern Bangladesh Infantry Regiment. His
relentless pursuit of a better future for his people and his unwavering
commitment to their cause stand as a timeless reminder of what one man, driven
by love for his people, can achieve. Yet, history has often ignored the stark injustices he
faced. The story of his struggles remains largely untold—a hidden chapter of
institutional hostility and quiet heroism. Captain Ghani did not seek glory for
his accomplishments, even when opportunities arose. Instead, he remained a
servant of the people, a true nationalist whose blood, sweat, and sacrifice
paved the way for generations. To those who benefit today from the regiment he built and
the ideals he upheld, one must ask: "How do you rate him?"
Captain Ghani’s life is not merely a tale of personal
triumph against adversity—it is the story of a legend who, despite immense
hardships, never ceased to love and serve his people. Captain Ghani’s life is not merely a narrative of personal
triumph against adversity—it is the story of a legend who, despite immense
hardships, never wavered in his dedication to his people. At great personal
cost to his family, comfort, and health, he remained steadfast in his vision of
serving his nation and uplifting its toiling masses. His invalidation from the
Army, though a significant setback, unveiled the broader vision of a reformer
whose unwavering commitment transcended the confines of his military career.
For most individuals of such stature, enduring systemic
discrimination often leads to fading into obscurity or vanishing from public
memory. Yet, for Major A. Ghani, the story unfolded differently. With a
resilience that refused to succumb to despair, he turned this chapter of
adversity into an opportunity. Despite his ability to secure a lucrative
position in civil administration, he chose a more challenging path—one aligned
with his unwavering principles and dedication to his people.
Rather than seeking an easy life, Captain Ghani took
decisive steps toward a future defined by service and reform. He refused to
retreat into silence or anonymity. Instead, he swiftly reclaimed the centre
stage, channelling his energies into a new chapter of his journey—one that
would come to define his political legacy. This continuation of his story will
unfold in the following chapters, chronicling his transformative contributions
to his nation's political life.
