Understanding the Six-Point Proposal for East Pakistan

The question asks about the individual who proposed the six-point plan concerning the greater autonomy of East Pakistan in 1966. This historical event is a significant part of the political history of Pakistan and the independence movement of Bangladesh.

What was the Six-Point Movement?

The Six-Point Movement was a political movement in East Pakistan (now Bangladesh) in 1966. It was initiated by the Awami League, demanding substantial autonomy for the province. The points outlined a framework for a federal system of government in Pakistan, where the provinces would have significant power.

Who Proposed the Six-Point Plan?

The six-point program was announced by Sheikh Mujib-ur-Rahman, the leader of the Awami League, on 5 February 1966, in Lahore, West Pakistan. He presented it as a demand for greater provincial autonomy to end the perceived exploitation and discrimination against East Pakistan by the central government, which was dominated by West Pakistani politicians and military officials.

Analysis of the Options:

• Jawaharlal Nehru: Jawaharlal Nehru was the first Prime Minister of India. He was not involved in proposing political frameworks for Pakistan's internal provincial structure. This option is incorrect.
• Sheikh Mujib-ur-Rahman: Sheikh Mujib-ur-Rahman was the leader of the Awami League and is widely recognized as the architect of the Six-Point Plan demanding autonomy for East Pakistan in 1966. This option aligns with historical facts.
• General Yahya Khan: General Yahya Khan was the President of Pakistan from 1969 to 1971. While he played a crucial role in the events leading to the 1971 war, he was not the author of the Six-Point Plan. This option is incorrect.
• Zulfikar Ali Bhutto: Zulfikar Ali Bhutto was a prominent West Pakistani politician and later became the Prime Minister of Pakistan. He was a key political opponent of Sheikh Mujib-ur-Rahman and the Six-Point Plan. He did not propose the plan. This option is incorrect.

Based on historical records, Sheikh Mujib-ur-Rahman was the leader who presented the Six-Point Proposal in 1966.

Summary of the Six Points (Overview):

The six points generally advocated for:

• A federal state and parliamentary form of government.
• Federal government dealing with only defense and foreign affairs.
• Separate currencies or separate fiscal policies for the two wings.
• Taxation power resting with the provinces.
• Separate trade accounts for each wing.
• Provinces having the power to maintain their own militia or paramilitary forces.

These points aimed to give East Pakistan significant control over its economy and governance.

Conclusion on the Six-Point Proposal's Author

The historical figure responsible for proposing the six-point proposal for greater autonomy of East Pakistan in 1966 was Sheikh Mujib-ur-Rahman.

Revision Table: Key Figures and the Six-Point Plan

Additional Information: Six-Point Movement Significance

The Six-Point Movement is considered a critical step in the struggle for the independence of Bangladesh. It galvanized public support in East Pakistan for autonomy and became the political platform for the Awami League in the 1970 general election, which they won decisively. The refusal of the West Pakistani establishment to accept the election results based on the Six-Point mandate eventually led to the Bangladesh Liberation War in 1971.

Sheikh Mujib-ur-Rahman is revered as the "Father of the Nation" in Bangladesh for his leadership during this period.