First Battle of Belonia Bulge: Early infiltration in June 1971.

The First Battle of Belonia Bulge marked a bold and ambitious early offensive in the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War, showcasing the Mukti Bahini's growing capability for coordinated action. On June 1, 1971, four companies of freedom fighters, led by Captain Jafar Imam (pseudonym Captain Humayun, from Sector 2), executed a daring covert infiltration into the Belonia Bulge enclave.

This operation aimed to liberate the area, disrupt Pakistani logistics, and establish a base for the provisional Bangladesh government—representing one of the war's earliest attempts to seize and hold territory.Planning and ObjectivesBy May 1971, Mukti Bahini forces in Tripura had undergone initial training and organization with Indian support. The Belonia Bulge's strategic vulnerability—a narrow salient with key roads and railway linking Chittagong to Feni—made it an ideal target.Dual objectives drove the mission:

Liberate Feni district and the Bulge.
Create a secure zone inside Bangladesh for the exiled government's headquarters.

Captain Jafar Imam commanded the infiltrating force, primarily from Sector 2 but with coordination involving Sector 1 elements. Fighters crossed from western Tripura, using local knowledge to avoid detection.The Infiltration and Initial SuccessOn June 1, the four companies slipped into the enclave undetected. They quickly overran lightly defended Pakistani positions, capturing key points along the Muhuri River.Local civilians welcomed the fighters, providing intelligence and support. Rapid advances liberated parts of Parshuram and Belonia, raising hopes for a permanent foothold.This early success disrupted Pakistani communications and boosted morale among refugees and guerrillas in Tripura.Pakistani Counteroffensive and WithdrawalPakistani forces, surprised but quick to react, launched heavy counterattacks with reinforcements from Feni. Artillery, airstrikes, and infantry assaults pressured the outnumbered Mukti Bahini.Fighters repulsed several assaults, inflicting casualties, but sustained pressure and ammunition shortages forced a tactical withdrawal by late June (around June 19-21).Though the Bulge was relinquished temporarily, the operation gained valuable combat experience, captured arms, and demonstrated vulnerability in Pakistani defenses.Significance of the First BattleThis infiltration:

Proved Mukti Bahini could conduct large-scale operations beyond hit-and-run raids.
Forced Pakistanis to reinforce the area, diverting troops from other fronts.
Set the stage for later battles, culminating in permanent liberation in November 1971.
Highlighted joint Sector 1-2 coordination in the Bulge region.

Captain Jafar Imam's leadership in this bold gamble earned lasting respect, forming the nucleus for the later 10th East Bengal Regiment.The First Battle of Belonia Bulge, though not a permanent victory, ignited hope and refined tactics for future successes in Sector 1.Joy Bangla! The daring June infiltration sowed the seeds for the Bulge's ultimate liberation.
Tags: Bangladesh Liberation War 1971, First Battle Belonia Bulge, June 1971 Infiltration, Captain Jafar Imam, Mukti Bahini Sector 2, Belonia Enclave, Muktijuddho, Joy Bangla