The Bangladeshis resisted the Pakistani military forces in 1971 through a combination of armed struggle, guerrilla warfare, civil disobedience, and international diplomacy.

1. Armed Resistance:

Mukti Bahini (Liberation Forces): Formed with Bengali soldiers, police, students, and civilians, they launched attacks on Pakistani troops and engaged in guerrilla warfare.

Defections from Pakistan Army: Many Bengali officers and soldiers of the East Pakistan Rifles (EPR) and police joined the liberation forces, bringing weapons and combat experience.

India’s Support: India trained and armed Mukti Bahini fighters, eventually leading to the creation of a structured resistance army.

2. Guerrilla Warfare & Sabotage:

Hit-and-run attacks on military convoys, bases, and supply lines weakened Pakistani control.

Sabotage operations included destroying bridges, railway lines, and communication networks to disrupt enemy movements.

Urban Resistance (Crack Platoon): Special Mukti Bahini groups carried out bombings and assassinations in Dhaka and other cities.

3. Civil Disobedience & Protests:

Before the war, Bangladeshis, led by Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, engaged in non-cooperation movements against the Pakistani government.

Mass protests, strikes, and public boycotts crippled the administration in March 1971.

4. International Diplomacy & Media:

Exiled leaders like Tajuddin Ahmad gained diplomatic support, especially from India.

Foreign journalists exposed Pakistan’s atrocities, increasing global pressure.

5. India’s Military Intervention (December 1971):

The Indian Army officially entered the war on December 3, 1971, leading to Pakistan’s surrender on December 16, 1971.

Through these combined efforts, Bangladeshis successfully resisted and defeated the Pakistani military, leading to th

eir independence on December 16, 1971.