"Bangladesh Revises History: New Textbooks to Credit Ziaur Rahman with Declaring Independence in 1971"

"Bangladesh Revises Textbooks on 1971 Liberation War: Ziaur Rahman Credited with Declaring Independence"

The Bangladesh interim government has introduced revised textbooks on the 1971 Liberation War, now attributing the declaration of independence to Ziaur Rahman. This replaces earlier texts crediting Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.

According to a report by The Daily Star, the updated textbooks, featuring significant changes, are being distributed to primary and secondary students from January 1.

Government’s Perspective

Professor AKM Reazul Hassan, Chairman of the National Curriculum and Textbook Board (NCTB), stated that the new textbooks for the 2025 academic year include a revised narrative:
“On March 26, 1971, Ziaur Rahman declared the independence of Bangladesh, and on March 27, he made another declaration on behalf of Bangabandhu.”

The revisions aim to provide a factual account by removing what officials describe as "exaggerated, imposed history." Writer and researcher Rakhal Raha, involved in the revision process, explained that the claim of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman declaring independence via a wireless message while under arrest lacked verified evidence.

Historical Shifts in Textbooks

Historically, textbook narratives have fluctuated depending on the ruling government. During Awami League-led administrations, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman was credited with the declaration, while texts under BNP rule attributed it to Ziaur Rahman. Former NCTB officials noted such changes but could not confirm the pre-1996 versions.

Potential Controversy

When asked whether the changes might spark controversy, Reazul dismissed the idea, emphasizing that the revisions reflect a national issue, not a partisan one. He added that the updated curriculum also recognizes contributions by leaders like Maulana Bhashani and Tajuddin Ahmed.

However, critics highlight that the constitution continues to acknowledge Sheikh Mujibur Rahman as the "Father of the Nation" and includes his telegram declaring independence on March 26, 1971, in its sixth schedule. The Proclamation of Independence by the Mujibnagar Government on April 10, 1971, is also preserved in the seventh schedule.

Notably, the revisions also exclude the title "Father of the Nation" from references to Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.