Operation Searchlight facts for kids

Operation Searchlight: Location of Pakistani and Bengali units on 25 March 1971. Some unit locations are not shown.

Operation Searchlight was a secret plan by the Pakistan Army in March 1971. Its main goal was to stop the people of East Pakistan from wanting to become an independent country. This plan was ordered by the government in West Pakistan. It followed an earlier plan called Operation Blitz, which had started in November 1970.

What Was Operation Searchlight?

Operation Searchlight was a sudden and strong military action. The army from West Pakistan wanted to take control of all major cities and towns in East Pakistan. They also wanted to disarm Bengali soldiers and police officers. The goal was to crush the movement for independence quickly.

Why Did It Happen?

For many years, there were big differences between East Pakistan and West Pakistan. Even though they were one country, they were far apart and had different cultures. The people in East Pakistan felt that the government in West Pakistan treated them unfairly. They felt they did not get enough money or power. This led to a strong desire for self-rule and independence, known as the Bengali nationalist movement. The government in West Pakistan saw this movement as a threat. They decided to use military force to stop it.

When Did the Operation Start?

The operation officially began on the night of March 25, 1971. Pakistani military forces moved into action across East Pakistan. They targeted important places like universities, police stations, and homes of political leaders. The aim was to surprise everyone and quickly end the protests.

What Happened Next?

Operation Searchlight did not stop the independence movement. Instead, it made the people of East Pakistan even more determined to fight for their freedom. This operation led to the start of the Bangladesh Liberation War. This war lasted for nine months and ended with East Pakistan becoming the independent country of Bangladesh.

Images for kids

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  Operation Searchlight: The location of Pakistani targets in Dhaka on 25 March 1971. Map is not to exact scale.

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  Operation Searchlight: The location of Pakistani targets in Chittagong on 25 March 1971. Map is not to exact scale.

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  Operation Searchlight: Pakistan army operation 10 April – 19 June. Not to exact scale and some troop movements/location are indicative only.