Biography of Major Dalim (Shariful Haque Dalim): A Controversial Figure in Bangladesh’s History

Major Shariful Haque Dalim, popularly known as Major Dalim, is a name intricately tied to the history of Bangladesh. His life story is a complex narrative of patriotism, controversy, and exile, reflecting the tumultuous political landscape of Bangladesh’s early years. From his role as a freedom fighter during the Liberation War to his involvement in the 15 August 1975 coup that changed the course of the nation’s history, Dalim’s journey is both significant and polarizing.

Early Life and Military Career

Shariful Haque Dalim was born on 2 February 1946 in what was then East Pakistan (now Bangladesh). After completing his early education, he joined the Pakistan Air Force in 1964. However, his career took a pivotal turn in 1965 when he transitioned to the Pakistan Army. This decision set the stage for his future roles in both war and peace.

During the Bangladesh Liberation War of 1971, Dalim defected from the Pakistan Army and joined the Mukti Bahini, the armed resistance group fighting for Bangladesh’s independence. His bravery and contributions to the war effort earned him the prestigious title of Bir Uttom, one of the highest military honors in Bangladesh.

Post-Independence Military Career

After the independence of Bangladesh in 1971, Dalim continued his military career in the newly formed Bangladesh Army. By 1974, he was stationed with the Bengal Lancers, a prestigious cavalry unit. However, accusations of disciplinary breaches led to his dismissal from the army in 1974, marking the beginning of a contentious phase in his career.

Role in the 15 August 1975 Coup

Shariful Haque Dalim’s name became etched in history due to his involvement in the 15 August 1975 coup, a military-led uprising that resulted in the assassination of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the founding father of Bangladesh, along with most of his family members. This event is one of the darkest and most controversial chapters in the country’s history.

Although Dalim initially refused to lead the attack on Sheikh Mujib’s residence, he played a crucial role in the coup. He was tasked with taking control of the Bangladesh Betar (Radio) station, where he made an infamous announcement:

“I am Major Dalim speaking; autocrat Sheikh Mujib has been killed. The army led by Khondaker Mostaq Ahmad has taken over power. Curfew has been declared.”

The coup led to the installation of Khondaker Mostaq Ahmad as president, who declared martial law and passed the Indemnity Act of 1975, granting legal protection to those involved in the coup. Dalim was reinstated in the army and promoted to lieutenant colonel.

Diplomatic Career

Following the coup, Major Dalim transitioned to diplomacy. In 1976, he was assigned to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and sent to the People’s Republic of China as a diplomat. Over the years, he held several significant positions:

• 1980: Posted at the Bangladesh High Commission in London.
• 1982: Appointed as the Consulate General of Bangladesh in Hong Kong, serving until 1988.
• 1988: Became Ambassador to Kenya and Tanzania, with additional responsibilities for supervising Bangladeshi peacekeepers in Somalia as part of the United Nations Peacekeeping Force.
• Permanent Representative to UNEP and HABITAT during his tenure as an ambassador.

Dalim retired from government service in 1995, having held several influential roles in the country’s diplomatic missions.

Life in Exile

The political landscape of Bangladesh changed dramatically in 1996 when Sheikh Hasina, the daughter of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, became the Prime Minister. Her government repealed the Indemnity Act and reopened the case of her father’s assassination. Major Dalim, along with others involved in the 1975 coup, was tried in absentia and sentenced to death.

To evade prosecution, Dalim fled Bangladesh and has lived in exile since then. He is believed to have used a Kenyan passport and established business interests in Africa. Despite international warrants for his arrest, his exact whereabouts remain uncertain, though reports suggest he resides in Pakistan.

Personal Life

Major Dalim was married to Nimmi Chowdhury until her passing in 2005. The couple had one daughter. His family includes his younger brother, Kamrul Haque Swapan, and sister, Mohua Haque.

Public Reappearance

For decades, Dalim remained out of the public eye, a fugitive wanted for his role in the 1975 coup. However, following political unrest in Bangladesh in August 2024, which led to significant changes in the country’s governance, Dalim resurfaced publicly. On 5 January 2025, he appeared in a live interview on the YouTube channel of expatriate journalist Elias Hossain. In the interview, Dalim spoke about his years in hiding, his views on the 1975 coup, and his perspective on Bangladesh’s political history.

Legacy and Controversy

Major Shariful Haque Dalim’s legacy is a subject of intense debate. To some, he is remembered as a brave freedom fighter who played a pivotal role in the Liberation War. To others, he is seen as a conspirator whose actions contributed to one of the most tragic events in Bangladesh’s history.

The 15 August 1975 coup marked a turning point in Bangladesh’s political history, leading to decades of military interventions and political instability. Dalim’s role in this event ensures his name remains a topic of discussion among historians, political analysts, and the general public.

Conclusion

Shariful Haque Dalim’s life is a reflection of the complexities and contradictions of Bangladesh’s early years as an independent nation. From a celebrated war hero to a fugitive convicted for his role in a political assassination, Dalim’s journey encapsulates the highs and lows of a nation striving to define its identity. His story serves as a reminder of the sacrifices, struggles, and controversies that have shaped Bangladesh’s history.

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