History of Biharis in Bangladesh, Role in the Liberation War, and Genocide

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.

How to install Canon LBP 6230 Printer driver

​To install the driver for your Canon LBP6230 printer, follow these steps:

  1. Download the Driver:
    • Visit the Canon Support page.
    • Enter your printer model, LBP6230, in the search box and select it from the list.
    • Navigate to the Drivers & Downloads section.
    • Choose your operating system from the dropdown menu.
    • Download the appropriate driver for your system.
  2. Install the Driver:
    • Locate the downloaded driver file on your computer.
    • Double-click the file to begin the installation process.
    • Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation.
  3. Connect the Printer:
    • For USB Connection: Connect the printer to your computer using a USB cable.
    • For Network Connection: Ensure your printer is connected to the same network as your computer.
  4. Complete Setup:
    • After installation, print a test page to confirm the printer is functioning correctly.

For a visual guide, you can watch this tutorial

Easy Ways to Do Voice Typing on Computer

You can use Windows, Google Docs, and various third-party software for voice typing (Speech-to-Text) on your computer. Below are the detailed methods:

1. Windows Speech Recognition (Windows Built-in Feature)

To use Windows’ own voice typing feature:

  1. Press Windows + H (Works on Windows 10 and 11).
  2. Dictation toolbar will appear on the screen.
  3. Allow microphone access and speak in Bengali.
  4. The text will be automatically typed.

👉 Note: Windows’ built-in Speech Recognition might not work well for Bengali. It’s better to use Google Voice Typing.

2. Google Docs Voice Typing (Most Effective and Popular Method)

Voice typing in Google Docs is very easy and effective.

Method:

  1. Open Google Docs in Google Chrome browser ().
  2. Go to Tools > Voice Typing.
  3. Click on the Microphone icon.
  4. Select Language: Bengali (Bangladesh).
  5. Allow microphone access and speak; it will automatically type.

👉 Google Docs Voice Typing works great for all kinds of Bengali writing!

3. Google Voice Typing (Using Gboard or Google Assistant)

If you want to type on the computer using your mobile:

  1. Install the Google Gboard app (Android/iPhone).
  2. Enable Voice Typing in Gboard on your mobile.
  3. Open WhatsApp Web / Google Keep on PC.
  4. Voice type on the mobile and copy-paste it to the PC.

4. Voice Typing in Microsoft Word

To do direct voice typing in Microsoft Word:

  1. Use Microsoft 365 or Office 2019/2021.
  2. Go to Home > Dictate (Microphone icon) > Select Language: Bengali.
  3. Speak into the microphone and it will be automatically typed.

5. Third-party Software (Speech-to-Text Software)

The following software supports Bengali voice typing well:

  • Speechnotes ()
  • Voice Notebook

Conclusion:

Best Method: Google Docs Voice Typing. ✅ For Windows users: Windows Speech Recognition + Microsoft Word Dictate. ✅ If you want to type using mobile: Gboard + Google Keep.

Let us know which method works best for your needs! 😊

How to Operate a Computer Without a Mouse?

You can easily control your computer without a mouse using keyboard shortcuts. Below are some essential keyboard shortcuts for Windows and Mac users.


📌 Keyboard Shortcuts for Windows:

1️⃣ Open Start Menu: Ctrl + Esc or Win
2️⃣ Launch Programs: Win + R (Open Run and type software name)
3️⃣ Switch Between Tabs: Alt + Tab
4️⃣ Open File Explorer: Win + E
5️⃣ Open Settings: Win + I
6️⃣ Show Desktop: Win + D
7️⃣ Open Right-Click Menu: Shift + F10
8️⃣ Open Task Manager: Ctrl + Shift + Esc
9️⃣ Rename Files or Folders: F2
🔟 Lock Computer: Win + L


📌 Keyboard Shortcuts for Mac:

1️⃣ Spotlight Search (To find apps or files): Command + Space
2️⃣ Access Dock: Control + F3
3️⃣ Switch Tabs: Command + Tab
4️⃣ Force Quit Apps: Command + Option + Esc
5️⃣ Open System Preferences: Command + , (comma)


📌 How to Control Mouse Cursor with Keyboard?

📌 For Windows:
1️⃣ Press Win + Ctrl + Num Lock.
2️⃣ Use 8, 2, 4, 6 on the Numeric Keypad to move the cursor.

📌 For Mac:
1️⃣ Go to System PreferencesAccessibilityMouse & Trackpad.
2️⃣ Enable Mouse Keys to control the cursor using the keyboard.


You can perform all tasks like navigation, launching apps, file management, etc., without a mouse by mastering keyboard shortcuts. This will make your work much faster!

 

What is an Owner’s Engineer in Project Implementation?

An Owner’s Engineer (OE) plays a crucial role in project implementation, acting as an independent consultant on behalf of the project owner. Their primary responsibility is to oversee, manage, and ensure quality control throughout the project lifecycle.

Key Responsibilities of an Owner’s Engineer:

Design Review & Approval – Evaluates project designs, technical specifications, and compliance with regulations.
Contractor & Vendor Management – Monitors the performance of contractors and suppliers to ensure project success.
Quality Control & Assurance – Ensures that materials, equipment, and construction meet industry standards.
Risk Assessment & Problem Solving – Identifies potential risks and provides solutions to mitigate project challenges.
Project Budget & Timeline Monitoring – Ensures the project stays within budget and is completed on time.

Why is an Owner’s Engineer Important?

Having an Owner’s Engineer in a project reduces risks, enhances efficiency, and safeguards the owner’s interests by providing expert oversight and technical support.

If you’re looking to optimize project execution, hiring an Owner’s Engineer can significantly improve cost control, quality assurance, and compliance management.