ThePrint CutTheClutter: 25 March crackdown, mythical victories & territorial losses—how Pakistan Army has self-destructed
Mar 25, 2025
Explore the significant events of March 25, 1971, revealing how Operation Searchlight shaped Bangladesh's independence. Delve into the paradox of the Pakistani Army, celebrated as elite yet marked by historical failures. The discussion critiques the military's narrative of success versus its actual outcomes, highlighting the detrimental impact of military rule on national unity and territorial stability. Unpack the myths surrounding military victories and losses that continue to influence Pakistan's identity.
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Pakistani Army's Self-Perception
- The Pakistani army believes it's the sole protector of Pakistan's ideology and unity.
- This belief justifies their interventions and control, even over civilian governments.
Cohen's Paradox
- Professor Stephen Cohen called the Pakistani army "the finest army in the world, but one which had never won a war."
- Zia ul-Haq banned Cohen's book but still valued his opinions.
Delusional Victories
- The Pakistani army's main problem is its delusion, particularly about its victories.
- It celebrates the 1965 war as a victory despite evidence suggesting otherwise.