1.Interesting how, in analyzing the events of Jan-Mar 1971, we often describe Bhutto as power-hungry & Mujib as the leader of the rightful majority. How we also readily marshal hindsight evidence against Bhutto to keep the focus on his personal ambition (versus structural issues)

2. If we widen the lens for Mujib + open up the discussion on agency within the structural context, we can understand things beyond our polarized Bhutto versus Mujib view. Mujib was as power-hungry if not more than Bhutto. Unfortunately, Mujib is Bangabandhu & not to be assailed

3. Mujib's disinclination to talk to Bhutto was not based on his perception of a Bhutto-Junta conspiracy. Mujib had been talking of a conspiracy since well before elections. The Awami League's attitude toward the PPP was a well-considered strategy, intended to isolate the Punjab.