The Indo-Pakistani War of 1971 was a significant conflict between India and Pakistan that took place from December 3 to December 16, 1971. It resulted in the creation of Bangladesh, formerly known as East Pakistan. Here's a detailed overview:

Background: The roots of the conflict can be traced back to the partition of British India in 1947, which led to the creation of India and Pakistan. East Pakistan (now Bangladesh) and West Pakistan (present-day Pakistan) were geographically separated by India. East Pakistanis faced discrimination and economic disparity under the ruling West Pakistani government.

Political Tensions: In 1970, general elections were held in Pakistan, and the Awami League, led by Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, won a landslide victory in East Pakistan. However, the ruling regime in West Pakistan, led by President Yahya Khan, refused to transfer power to the Awami League, triggering widespread protests and unrest in East Pakistan.

Military Action: On March 25, 1971, the Pakistan Army launched Operation Searchlight, a brutal crackdown on Bengali nationalists and civilians in East Pakistan. This led to widespread atrocities, including mass killings, rapes, and displacement of millions of Bengalis.Indian Involvement: India, led by Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, intervened in support of the Bengali independence movement. Millions of refugees fled to India to escape the violence in East Pakistan, putting a strain on India's resources. India provided training, arms, and sanctuary to the Mukti Bahini, the Bengali guerrilla fighters.

Outbreak of War: On December 3, 1971, Pakistan launched preemptive airstrikes against Indian airbases in Kashmir, targeting Indian aircraft on the ground. India responded by declaring war on Pakistan. The conflict quickly escalated into a full-scale war on both the eastern and western fronts.

Military Operations: In the east, the Indian Army, supported by the Mukti Bahini, launched a coordinated offensive against Pakistani forces in East Pakistan. They swiftly gained control of significant territory and besieged Pakistani forces in Dhaka, the capital of East Pakistan.

Surrender and Independence: On December 16, 1971, Pakistani forces in East Pakistan surrendered to the joint Indian and Mukti Bahini forces, effectively ending the war. The Instrument of Surrender was signed by Lieutenant General A.A.K. Niazi of the Pakistani Army, leading to the creation of Bangladesh as an independent nation.

Aftermath: The war resulted in significant casualties and the displacement of millions of people. It also had geopolitical ramifications, with India emerging as the dominant regional power in South Asia. The conflict remains a significant event in the history of the Indian subcontinent, symbolizing the triumph of democracy and the right to self-determination.