Why Was East Pakistan Richer Than West Pakistan Before Bangladesh Separated?
The divide between East Pakistan and West Pakistan existed long before the 1971 War of Independence, leading to Bangladesh's birth. While East Pakistan was initially wealthier, a series of socio-political and economic mismanagements contributed to its economic decline. This article delves into the factors that led to the economic disparity and the eventual separation of East Pakistan.
The Initial Wealth and Resources of East Pakistan
East Pakistan, which eventually became Bangladesh, benefitted greatly from its vast natural resources, fertile land, and strategic location along the Ganges and Brahmaputra rivers. This hydrographic network supported a thriving agriculture sector. Moreover, the eastern region's industries, centered around textile, jute, and brick manufacturing, contributed significantly to its economic growth. The region was known for its exports, making it a crucial part of Pakistan's economy.
Political and Governance Mismanagement
The economic disparity between the two regions can be attributed to several political and governance issues that plagued West Pakistan. The West Pakistani government often prioritized industrialization and urban development in West Pakistan, neglecting the economic development of East Pakistan. This led to a lopsided distribution of resources and infrastructure investment.
Army Control and Misuse of Budget
A significant factor was the dominance of the army in political and economic affairs. The Pakistani military had a strong influence over both governance and resource allocation. This influence translated into excessive spending on defense budgets. The military's expenditure on an arms race and the acquisition of weaponry was substantially costly. Such a dependence on the military expenditure depleted resources that could have been better utilized for economic development and social welfare programs in East Pakistan.
Political Instability and Lack of Investment
The political instability and lack of stable governance in West Pakistan created an environment unsuitable for economic growth. Religious extremism and political turmoil deterred foreign investment, vital for industrial manufacturing. The frequent uprisings and the constant fear of political instability discouraged businesses from setting up operations in West Pakistan. This lack of investment further hollowed out the eastern region's economy, pushing it into a decline.
The Role of Military Dictatorship
The military's control extended beyond defense spending; it also shaped the political landscape of both regions. West Pakistan's military rulers often centralized power and excluded East Pakistan from decision-making processes. This exclusionary approach severed the economic ties that could have balanced the two regions and fostered their mutual growth.
Conclusion and Legacy of East Pakistan
East Pakistan's initial economic advantage was overshadowed by political and governance mismanages. The neglect of economic development and the focus on military spending led to a significant economic decline in East Pakistan. This economic disparity, combined with political instability and religious extremism, eventually led to the separation of East Pakistan as Bangladesh. Understanding these historical factors provides valuable insights into the socio-political dynamics that shaped this part of South Asia's history.
Keywords: East Pakistan, West Pakistan, Economic Differences, Bangladesh Separation, Political Instability