Karachi: Arts Council of Pakistan Karachi organized the launch of Junaid Ahmad’s book “1971 Ethnic Cleansing of Biharis in East Pakistan” in Auditorium

1. The event was presided over by Mahmood Shaam, while Secretary Arts Council Professor Ejaz Farooqui, Ibnul Hasan Rizvi, Prof Birjees Haroon, Hassan Imam Siddiqui, and Junaid Ahmad also shared their thoughts.  In his presidential address, Mahmood Shaam lauded Dr. Junaid Ahmed’s research prowess, highlighting his ability to overturn established narratives.

He emphasized that Junaid Ahmed is relentless in bringing truths to light. Shaam remarked that while many books are published, few possess the significance of works like Ahmad’s, book which are valuable assets for a new generation.  He reflected on the history of migration during the partition of India, contrasting the experiences of wealthy landowners who migrated by plane with the poor who endured bloodshed on buses and trains. He argued that Biharis, as subcontinental Muslims, should not have been prevented from coming to Pakistan.  Shaam criticized the inconsistency in Pakistan’s immigration policies, pointing out that millions of Afghan refugees are welcomed while some Pakistanis face legal challenges upon their arrival. He expressed that he had read the entire 460-page book and found its detailed account of India’s role in the 1971 conflict, acknowledged by many Indian leaders and Bangladeshi authorities.  Professor Ejaz Farooqui expressed his pleasure that the book commemorates individuals whose history is largely unknown to current students. He stressed the importance of transmitting this historical knowledge to the younger generation, noting that the story of Biharis is an integral part of Pakistan’s history that should not be hidden. 

Farooqui argued that Biharis have a rightful place in Pakistan, a country for all, and praised their hard work and resilience, noting that he has never seen a Bihari begging, as they have earned their place through diligence.  Hasan Imam Siddiqui described Junaid Ahmad’s book as a significant research work that examines both Bihari languages and its literature. He noted the limited space allocated to Biharis in Bangladesh and the detrimental impact on their language and culture. Siddiqui highlighted the inclusion of census data in his book and commended Ahmad’s portrayal of Biharis as hardworking, kind-hearted, and loving people. Ibn-ul-Hasan Rizvi discussed the book’s structure, noting its seven chapters.  In his remarks, Junaid Ahmed explained that his motivation for writing the book was an upcoming seminar between India and Bangladesh, which he feared would present a one-sided narrative against Pakistan.

He felt it necessary to provide a counter-narrative and intended to prepare a substantial response. Ahmad expressed his hope that the book would reach Pakistan’s Supreme Court and prompt the government to repatriate Pakistanis still in Bangladesh. The event was moderated by Tahir Ahmed.