“Political factors were the main cause of friction between East and West Pakistan.” Discuss.

Candidates will offer a considered and balanced review of the statement that “political factors were the main cause of friction between East and West Pakistan”. This is a question about a range of issues so a description of the 1971 war should not be the focus of the response. Candidates may refer to demographic issues, political representation, internal political rivalries and upheavals, military leaders, and discrimination against East Pakistanis in the bureaucracy and the military. These need not all be covered or covered equally. While other, relevant, factors such as economic policies, cultural friction, Indian influence and US aid may be referred to, the bulk of the response will remain on the issue raised in the question. Candidates may agree, partly agree or disagree with the statement.