THE legacy of Mujib Ur Rahman in Bangladesh’s military history raises complex questions about the country’s sovereignty, the influence of foreign intelligence agencies and the creation of paramilitary groups often referred to as a “shadow army.” Allegations of close ties with India’s Research and Analysis Wing (RAW), financial misconduct and involvement in extrajudicial activities have given rise to concerns about Bangladesh’s security apparatus and political stability.
Bangladesh has a history of military involvement in politics, marked by several coups and the imposition of martial law in the decades following its independence in 1971. The assassination of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman in 1975, carried out by military officers, initiated a prolonged period where the military’s role in governance became highly pronounced. Since then, the military has not only been a defender of national borders but has also exerted a quiet influence over political structures.
Lieutenant General Mujeebur Rahman, a high-ranking officer within the Bangladesh Armed Forces, rose to prominence amidst this backdrop of military-political entanglement. His tenure in the armed forces saw both commendable achievements and controversial decisions, casting a shadow over his contributions to Bangladesh’s defence establishment. However, it is his alleged involvement with RAW and the creation of a “shadow army” that has left the most lasting impact, intertwining his legacy with accusations of compromised national sovereignty. One of the most critical accusations against General Mujeeb is his supposed association with RAW, India’s premier intelligence agency. Allegedly, he facilitated the entry and protection of RAW operatives within Bangladesh, which many perceive as a direct threat to national sovereignty. Such claims suggest that General Mujeeb was instrumental in allowing India’s intelligence footprint to grow within Bangladeshi borders, thus compromising the country’s strategic interests.
The concept of a “shadow army” in Bangladesh implies the existence of a paramilitary group operating autonomously from official command structures, often with political and foreign support. Allegedly supported by General Mujeeb and aligned with RAW’s objectives, this shadow army is perceived as a tool for maintaining control over political dissent and for carrying out actions that might be deemed too controversial or unethical for the official military. Financial irregularities associated with General Mujeeb further compound the ethical concerns surrounding his legacy. Allegations of embezzlement and misuse of military funds point to a culture of impunity that pervades certain ranks of the defence establishment. Misappropriated resources, reportedly used to fund shadow activities, reveal a troubling diversion of public assets toward unofficial agendas.
The alleged activities of General Mujeeb and his ties with RAW are not merely military concerns; they have substantial political implications. For a country like Bangladesh, with a vibrant yet divided political landscape, the presence of foreign influence within its military can significantly impact the balance of power. If any political faction is seen as benefiting from foreign support, it risks delegitimizing governance and alienating segments of the population who view such alliances with suspicion.
To move forward, Bangladesh must strengthen institutional safeguards within its military to prevent external infiltration and ensure transparency in military operations and spending. Reinforcing legal and ethical codes within the armed forces, coupled with a firm stance against foreign interference, is essential to restore public faith in the military and to reaffirm Bangladesh’s commitment to its sovereignty.
—The writer is contributing columnist.
