Leap Across Meghna: Blitzkrieg of IV Corps 1971

In 1971 the main thrust into erstwhile East Pakistan was launched by 4 Corps commanded by General Sagat Singh. He was faced by Pakistan’s 14 Division and 39 Division (ad Hoc) boosted by a large number of paramilitary forces. Impeding the advance were numerous terrain obstacles including the mighty Meghna. Though tasked only to reach the line of River Meghna Sagat took a calculated risk to leap across using an air bridge and head straight for Dacca, the very heart of East Pakistan. Bulk of enemy’s 14 Div sitting in formidable defenses at Bhairab Bazar was bypassed and had to surrender without a fight. The dash of 4 Corps for Dacca complemented by 95 Bde advancing through Meghalaya unnerved Gen Niazi and forced him to lay down arms. But for this master stroke the war could have ended in a stalemate or worse. In 16 chapters illustrated with neat sketches and pictures the author has chronicled the unique achievements of 4 Corps that enabled total liberation of Bangladesh through an aggressive strategy, calculated risks and superb execution. Bulk of the narrative is based on the author’s personal experience as a participant being in pivotal position as brigade major 57 Artillery Brigade whereby he had access to immediate and authentic bulletins from the fighting troops.