Who are Biharis?
Biharis are primarily an Urdu-speaking community originating from the states of Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, and Odisha in undivided India. They started residing in East Pakistan (now Bangladesh) after the partition of India and Pakistan in 1947. Predominantly Muslim, they migrated from India to Pakistan, considering Pakistan as their religious homeland.
When and Where Did They Come to Bangladesh?
During the partition of India in 1947, many Urdu-speaking Muslims moved to East Pakistan. Among them, a significant number came from Bihar, thus gaining the name ‘Bihari.’ They settled in industrial cities like Dhaka, Chittagong, Khulna, Narayanganj, Syedpur, and others, primarily engaging in business, technical work, and railways. Due to cultural and linguistic differences between the two parts of Pakistan, they couldn’t assimilate with the local Bengalis and preserved their Urdu-speaking community.
Biharis’ Role in the Liberation War
During the Liberation War in 1971, a notable section of the Biharis supported Pakistan. Various reasons contributed to this:
- Linguistic and Cultural Differences: Being Urdu-speaking, they felt distinct from Bengalis.
- Political and Economic Reasons: Some believed their interests would be harmed if Pakistan broke apart.
- Fear and Insecurity: Early incidents of violence during the war led them to support Pakistan.
However, not all Biharis opposed the Liberation War. Many supported the war and helped the Bengalis, though they were fewer in number. After independence, a large segment of Biharis faced local hostility for their perceived betrayal.
Genocide of Biharis
During and after the Liberation War, Biharis faced numerous retaliatory attacks. Many Biharis were killed, and their properties were looted post-independence due to their collaboration with the Pakistani forces. They faced severe violence, especially in areas like Syedpur, Khulna, Narayanganj, Chittagong, and Mirpur.
Post-independence, many Biharis wanted to migrate to Pakistan, but the Pakistani government refused to accept them. As a result, they were stranded in Bangladesh, forced to live in refugee camps. Although the 1974 tripartite agreement led to some Biharis being accepted by Pakistan, most remained in Bangladesh.
The detailed account of the genocide carried out against the Biharis is documented in the “71 SLAUGHTERHOUSE“ documentary, created by Aisha Ghazi / iResist.
Current Situation of Biharis
Presently, approximately 250,000 Biharis live in Bangladesh. The Supreme Court of Bangladesh granted them citizenship in 2008, providing them with voting rights and other fundamental rights. However, they still face various social and economic issues. Many Biharis continue to live in camps and have not been fully integrated into civic life.
The history of Biharis is complex and sensitive. Despite their Pakistan-aligned stance during the Liberation War, they are now permanent residents of Bangladesh. Offering them equal opportunities in society, while moving beyond past divisions, would be a humane and just decision. Learning from history and advancing towards a united future benefits everyone.