22 November 1971: Battle of Hilli during Indo-Pak War of 1971, which contributed to the surrender of Pakistani forces and creation of Bangladesh
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The Battle of Hilli was a significant engagement during the Indo-Pakistani War of 1971. It took place in the western sector, where Indian forces clashed with Pakistani troops for control of the strategic town of Hilli in East Pakistan (now Bangladesh). The battle unfolded as part of India's larger military intervention in support of the Bangladesh Liberation War.
The Battle of Hilli was inarguably the most savagely fought battle of the Indo-Pak War of 1971. As observed by the then Army Commander, Eastern Command, Lt Gen IS Arora, PVSM, "Hilli was the bloodiest battle in the then East Pakistan". The operations of Hilli comprised two battles: the first Battle of Hilli was fought from November 22 to 24, 1971, and the second from December 10 to 11, 1971, although the final surrender took place on December 18, 1971.
Indian Army during the battle of Hilli.
The first battle was much more fierce in comparison to the second one, since it was fought before the Indo-Pak War was officially declared on December 03, 1971, and the morale of the Pakistani forces defending Hilli at that time was high. The Indian objective was to seize a network of Pakistani fortifications centered around the village of Hilli, allowing them to advance to the town of Bogra.
“To cut off Bogra from the rest of East Pakistan, it was important to capture Hilli. The battle started on night of 22 November 1971. Hilli was on a higher altitude and well prepared defensive position. Despite repeated attacks meeting with failure, 202 Mountain Brigade with 8 Guards in the lead, finally captured the Northern Part of Hilli defences after a fierce battle. The Indian troops, subsequently bypassed Hilli defences and established a road block at its rear. The Pakistani troops fell back from Hilli to avoid being cut off and focused on defending Bogra which too was later captured by Indian troops”.
The battle lasted several days and involved intense fighting.
Major Niazi of 31 Punjab Pakistan surrendering to Lt Col V.R. Swaminathan of 22 Maratha Light infantry after the battle of Hilli/Bogra on 16 December 1971
Ultimately, the Indian forces successfully captured Hilli, which played a crucial role in securing the eastern front and isolating Pakistani forces in different pockets. The fall of Hilli contributed to the eventual surrender of Pakistani forces in East Pakistan and the creation of Bangladesh.
The Battle of Hilli was a pivotal moment in the conflict, leading to the larger geopolitical change in the region with the emergence of Bangladesh as an independent nation.