History Notes
History Notes
ii) Sir Syed, by 18 years old, was proficient in Arabic, Persian, Mathematics, Medicine,
and Literature, having been introduced to several renowned Indian writers.
iii) Sir Syed, a prominent legal figure, rose to prominence after his father's death in
1838. He became a judge in Delhi in 1846 and wrote a renowned book, Athar-al-
Sanadeed, on archaeology.
iv) Sir Syed, was a chief judge in Bijnaur during the 1857 War of Independence, saved
many lives and was offered a large income in return for his loyalty but he refused.
v) Despite his unpopularity with some Muslims due to his belief in the futility of
armed uprising against the British, he continued to work towards reconciliation after
the war.
vi) He served as Chief Justice in Muradabad, Ghazipore, and Aligarh, where he played
a crucial role in establishing a new college in 1864.
vii) In 1876, he retired from law to run Aligarh college, focusing on improving Muslim
status through education, leading to a 'Muslim renaissance'. He died in 1898.
Beliefs
i) Sir Syed was unhappy with the Muslim subcontinent's decline since the Mughal
Empire and their role in the War of Independence, as British took measures to make
their control free from further challenges.
ii) Sir Syed criticized British and Hindu treatment of Muslims, recognizing their
responsibility for their situation, while some Muslims rejected British rule, viewing
them as invaders.
iii) He was with the view that Muslims must embrace British ideas and utilize British
education to enhance their position. If they didn't, Hindus would continue to prosper
due to their cooperative approach.
iv) Sir Syed aimed for Muslim unity, prosperity, and economic, social, political, and
religious improvements, founding 'The Aligarh Movement' to promote a 'Muslim
renaissance' in Aligarh.
• to raise political awareness among the Muslim community about the potential
threat to their position from Hindus' policy of cooperation with the British.
Work
i) Sir Syed emphasized the need for improved relations with the British and higher-
quality education for Muslims in the subcontinent to enhance their position in the
region. There were two obstacles to good relations.
A Syed aimed to correct the British's false view that Muslims held the entire
responsibility for the War of Independence, despite their repression policies against
Muslims.
B The Muslim community, deeply resentful of British rule, rejected Western ideas
that did not align with Islamic beliefs seeing British as 'foreign invaders'. Sir Syed
wanted to ensure that the British rule's benefits, particularly in science and
technology, were embraced by the Muslim community.
ii) Sir Syed argued against British blame for 1857 Indian Revolt events, citing main
reasons in his pamphlet, 'Essay on the Causes of the Indian Revolt':
1. The lack of representation for Indians in the government of the country.
2. The forcible conversion of Muslims to Christianity.
3. The poor management of the Indian army.
iii) He also listed many other measures taken by the British creating
dissatisfaction and leading to resentment among the Muslim community.
iv) The pamphlet was distributed free among British officials in India and sent to
members of parliament in England.
v) Sir Syed's writings sparked anger among British officials who perceived him as
blaming them for the uprising, while others accepted his truthfulness.
vi) Sir Syed clarified misunderstandings between British and Muslims about the term
'Nadarath', arguing it was an Arabic word meaning helper, reflecting positive Muslim
perception of the British.
ii) Sir Syed wrote Tabyin-ul-Kalam for Muslims in India highlighting similarities
between Islam and Christianity, but couldn't complete due to limited resources.
However, it demonstrates his commitment to improving relations.
iii) Another example of this is the British Indian Association established by him to
foster cooperation between the two communities.
i) British education benefited Hindus, who embraced the English language and sought
employment with the British, despite discrimination against Muslims. By 1871, 711
Hindus were in government employment, outperforming only 92 Muslims.
ii) The 'Hindu Movement' grew stronger as more Hindus received education in new
schools, colleges, and universities, increasing their confidence and causing a lack of
respect for Muslims.
iii) Sir Syed influenced Muslim attitudes towards British education, conflicting with
Ulama who believed Western scientific ideas undermined Islamic beliefs. He
emphasized studying and understanding modern scientific beliefs.
iv) He believed that Quran emphasized it and knowing modern scientific ideas helped
reveal the true majesty of God.
• Sir Syed founded the Scientific Society in 1863 to translate scientific writings from
Arabic, Persian and English into Urdu, later began issuing the journal, the Aligarh
Institute Gazette in 1866.
• In 1869, Sir Syed studied England's university system and envisioned a Muslim
subcontinent university based on Oxford and Cambridge's model. However, he faced
suspicion and decided to start with a school instead.
• On 24 May 1875, a committee was set up to raise funds and established the
Mohammedan Anglo-Oriental College in Aligarh, following the English public school
system. However, due to British restrictions, it couldn't initially become the Muslim
University envisioned by Sir Syed.
• The college provided both Western and Indian education, and Islamic education as
well. It became a symbol of Muslim unity and educated future Pakistani leaders like
Liaquat Ali Khan and Ayub Khan.
• Sir Syed was determined to enhance the Muslim community's status by promoting
good relations with the British through his essay on the Causes of the Indian Revolt
and The Loyal Mohammadens of India hoping that this would lead to greater
opportunities for Muslims.
• Sir Syed, despite being perceived as too moderate and British, realized that the
British were too powerful to overthrow and that Muslims would benefit more from
cooperation with them.
We, Hindus and Muslims, live together on the same soil under the same government.
Our interests and problems are common and, therefore I consider the two factions as
one nation.
• Sir Syed recognized Hindus' reluctance to collaborate with Muslims, leading him to
view them as distinct subcontinent groups.
• The Indian National Congress was established in 1885 by the British to gather the
opinions of the educated elite in Indian society.
• The Congress, despite its promise to represent all Indian communities, quickly
revealed itself as a Hindu-dominated body aiming to establish Hindu supremacy over
Muslims.
Political Representation
'I am convinced that the introduction of the principle of election would be attended
with evils of greater significance. The larger community would totally override the
interests of the smaller community'
Competitive Examinations
Language
• Sir Syed was concerned about the 'Hindi-Urdu Controversy'. In 1867, Hindus
demanded Hindi as the next official language, replacing Urdu, which became official
in 1825.
• Hindi became the second language after Sir Syed's death, influenced by Hindu
opposition to Urdu and his 'Two Nation Theory'.
• Urdu held special significance in Muslim community, with many writings in that
language. Sir Syed opposed attack on Urdu, shocked Hindu Scientific Society
members wanted journal published in Hindi.
• Sir Syed opposed Congress's Hindu interests which was to work only for Hindus,
believing it was harmful to the Muslim community, and instead formed the United
Patriotic Alliance which became the Mohammedan Defence Alliance in 1893.
Importance
•Sir Syed Ahmad Khan significantly improved the Muslim community's status in the
subcontinent by working tirelessly to restore relations with the British, challenging
their perception of Muslims as disloyal and untrustworthy.
• Sir Syed significantly influenced a Muslim revival through the Aligarh Movement,
promoting education as a means for self-improvement and better employment,
fostering a greater sense of self-worth.
• The Muslim revival led to increased political awareness among Hindus, who
exploited poor relations between Muslims and the British, with Sir Syed promoting
the 'Two Nation Theory'.
• Once Muslims came to accept the wisdom of this theory, it was only a small step to
call for partition. For this reason Sir Syed Ahmad Khan can rightly be called 'The
Father of the Pakistan Movement'.
Introduction
▪ Language plays a crucial role in the development of a state or national culture,
promoting uniformity and cultural identity by uniting a people.
▪ Urdu, the national language of Pakistan, is a relatively new language, despite the
diverse languages spoken by Muslims in the subcontinent over time.
History
▪ Since Islam's arrival, various languages have been used in the subcontinent by the
rulers, including Arabic and Turkish, to promote understanding of arts and literature.
▪ Persian, the official language in Delhi's court during the Mughal period, significantly
influenced literature and was adopted by poets and scholars like Amir Khusrau.
▪ Shah Waliullah translated the Quran into Persian, making it accessible to a wider
audience. Many Sanskrit book were also translated into Persian. Its use became so
widespread in daily communication that even Hindus started to use it.
Urdu
When the state of Pakistan was set up, its constitution stated that Urdu was the
national language. It was to be the symbol of unity between the different regions of
the new country. Why was Urdu chosen?
▪ Urdu, a language of the Indian subcontinent, emerged from the blend of Persian,
Turkish, and Punjabi with local dialects in Delhi. It gained prominence during the
Mughal period, but its roots go back to the era of the Delhi Sultans.
▪ In the late 13th century, Muslim armies used a common language to facilitate
communication among people from diverse regions and languages. This language
evolved over time into Urdu, which became widely spoken and understood across the
subcontinent. Muslim travellers also spread this language to other regions.
▪ During this period, poets like Mir, Sauda, Dard, and Ghalib were prominent. Aligarh
Muslim University nurtured writers like Hasrat Mohani, Majaz, and Jazbi. In the early
20th century, figures like Dr. Allama Iqbal, Dr. Nazir Ahmad, and others greatly
enriched Urdu literature.
▪ Urdu's widespread use owes much to poets and writers. Its link to Islam, including
the translation of the Quran by Shah Abdul Qadir, and the writing of religious books
in Urdu, has promoted unity among Muslims.
▪ In the 20th century, Urdu played a crucial role in the independence struggle. The
Muslim League, established in 1906, aimed to safeguard Muslim rights and Urdu
language. While English was the official language, institutions like Fort William
College supported and promoted Urdu alongside it.
▪ After 1857, the British shifted their focus to gaining Hindu support and lost interest
in promoting Urdu. In 1867, influential Hindus advocated for Hindi as the primary
language, causing tension with Muslims who saw it as a threat to their rights. Sir Syed
Ahmad Khan formed a society to support Urdu, leading to strained relations between
Hindus and Muslims in the 'Urdu-Hindi Controversy.'
▪ Urdu lacked support from non-Muslims, and not all Muslims endorsed it either. In
Bengal, which was a significant part of Pakistan until 1971, there was discontent over
Bengali not being recognized as the national language. Protests in 1948 in Dhaka
resulted in arrests, and in 1952, tear gas was used to disperse students protesting
against Urdu.
▪ The language dispute played a significant role in the 1971 civil war and the creation
of Bangladesh.
▪ Urdu is the state language today, but Punjabi is the most widely spoken among
Pakistan's 72 first languages.
Sindhi
(i) Sindhi, spoken in Sindh, has remained largely the same since the 12th century,
older than Urdu.
(ii) Before Muslims came to Sindh, Sindhi was written in Marwari and ArzNagari
scripts. With Arab influence, it adopted Arabic words and the Arabic script.
(iii) In 8th century Sindh when Muslims first settled there, Arabic was used for
administration, but Sindhi was the people's language. Later, Persian from Central Asia
also influenced Sindhi, making it a blend of Arabic and Persian.
(iv)Sindhi has notable poets like Makhdum Nuh and Qazi Qazan of Thatta who
contributed to its development.
(v)Sindhi literature flourished during the Somroo period from 1050-1300 and reached
its peak between 1685-1783. Sachal Sarmast and Shah Abdul Latif Bhitai are
renowned poets from this era.
(vi) Sindhi language grew with the emergence of 19th-century journals, starting with
Ta'alim Alkhashaf-o-Tauheed.
In modern times, efforts have been made to promote the Sindhi language:
▪ In 1948, the Sindhi Literary Board was established, publishing numerous Sindhi
books and magazines. Notable Sindhi authors include Pir Ali Muhammad Rashdi,
Fagir Nabi Bux, and G. Allana.
Balochi
(i) Balochi is the primary language in Balochistan, Pakistan's largest province, but
Persian and Brohi are also spoken. Balochi has two main variants: Sulemanki and
Mekrani.
(ii) Balochi came to Balochistan through migrating tribes from North-West Iran,
known for their nomadic lifestyle.
(iii) Balochi literature is underdeveloped due to its oral tradition. Early Balochi poetry
mainly consists of folk songs, with Jam Darang being a notable poet.
(iv) Balochi language gained recognition beyond the region in 1830 when British
traveler W. Leech mentioned Balochi language and literature in the Journal of Asiatic
Society.
(v) Before partition, Balochi literature was on the decline, with few Balochi
publications and even the Balochistan Gazetteer being in English.
However, some steps have been taken after the partition to promote the language:
Punjabi
(i) Punjabi is the main language in Pakistan's most populous province, Punjab. It's
also spoken in places like Azad Kashmir and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. It's had different
names in the past, like 'Masoodi,' 'A-Hindi,' and 'Hindko.'
(ii) In 1080, Hafiz Barkhurdar was the first to use the term 'Punjabi' for the language.
(iii) Punjabi has a rich history. It was written in Gurmukhi script, but later, Arabic
script was used during the Mughal era. The language has been influenced by Persian,
Arabic, Hindi, Turkish, and English. There are various Punjabi dialects, and in Western
Punjab, it has been influenced by Sindhi and Pashto.
(iv) Early Punjabi literature includes folk tales like Heer-Ranjha, Sassi, Punnu, and
Sohni-Mahiwal. There's also a strong tradition of mystic literature dating back to the
twelfth century, with Sufi poets like Baba Farid Ganjshakar and Sultan Bahu writing
famous works in Punjabi. Bullhe Shah composed beautiful mystical poetry that is still
sung today.
(v) In the early 20th century, Punjabi saw the rise of novels, short stories, and
dramas. As the century went on, academic books on subjects like Law, Medicine,
History, and Philosophy were published in Punjabi. Punjabi poetry evolved with new
forms like ghazal and nazm, including blank verse becoming popular.
(vi) A new literary movement saw versified translations of the Holy Quran by
Muhammad Ali Faiq. Ustad Daman, Sharif Kunjahi, Ahmad Rahi, and MunirNiazi,
along with younger writers, are changing traditional Punjabi literature in content and
form. Punjabi literature is now taught up to the MA level at the University of Punjab.
Pashto
(i) Pashto is spoken in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and northern Balochistan, influenced by
Arabic, Persian, and Greek.
♧The first period is from the 2nd to the 13th century. Amir Khan Pehivan and Bayazid
Ansari were notable poets. Bayazid Ansari's "Khair-ul-Bian" was a significant early
book on Sufism in Pashto literature.
♧The second period, starting in the early 13th century, lasted about a century. Pashto
prose and poetry flourished, reflecting nationalistic sentiments and asserting Pashto
freedom, especially during the Mughal invasions. Notable figures include HazratMian
Umar, Saadat Ali Khan, and Amir Muhammad Ansari.
♧The second period, starting in the early 13th century, lasted about a century. Pashto
prose and poetry flourished, reflecting nationalistic sentiments and asserting Pashto
freedom, especially during the Mughal invasions. Notable figures include HazratMian
Umar, Saadat Ali Khan, and Amir Muhammad Ansari.
♧The third period continued until British rule and was a golden era for Pashto
literature with many high-quality works. Notable writers include AkhundDardeeza,
Khushal Khan Khattak, and Sufi poet Rehman Baba.
(ii) Pashto literature played a crucial role in opposing British rule and the
independence movement. Sahibzada Abdul Qayum worked to raise political
awareness, leading to the establishment of Islamia College in Peshawar. The college
promoted unity and became a center for the freedom movement in the North West
Frontier Province (now Khyber Pakhtunkhwa).
(iii) Within three years of Independence, Peshawar University was founded, and in
1954, an academy for promoting Pashto literature was established. It created a
widely accepted Pashto dictionary, and postgraduate Pashto literature classes have
been available at university level in KP since then.
ii) One key reason for the path to independence was the rise of religious
organizations. The Indian National Congress was established in the late 1800s, and in
1906, the Muslim League was formed to represent Muslim perspectives.
iii) Initially, Hindus and Muslims joined forces against the British, signing the Lucknow
Pact and participating in the Khilafat movement.
iv) But in the 1920s and 1930s, they often disagreed and even resorted to violence.
When Congress ruled India for two years after the 1937 elections, religious rivalry
grew especially intense.
v) Both Congress and the Muslim League wanted British exit from India, but they
disagreed on the post-British plan.
vi) Inspired by leaders like Allama Muhammad Iqbal, Rahmat Ali, and especially
Muhammad Ali Jinnah, Muslims felt they wouldn't get fair treatment in a Hindu-
dominated India.
vii) In 1940, the Pakistan Resolution made partition and a Muslim homeland the
official Muslim League policy.
viii) Before Pakistan's creation, there were efforts to keep India united, with British
and Congress opposing partition.
ix) However, Muhammad Ali Jinnah's determination played a crucial role. On August
14, 1947, Pakistan became independent, largely thanks to his efforts, and he became
its first Governor-General.
ii) In 1883, the Indian Association proposed this idea, and a British Member of
Parliament suggested the same in a letter to The Times newspaper that year.
iii) A former member of the Indian Civil Service, Allan Octavian Hume, sent a letter to
Calcutta University graduates, urging them to create a national political organization.
He then established the Indian National Union with branches in various cities.
iv) British Viceroy Lord Dufferin supported Hume's efforts, seeing the organization as
a way to manage the growing forces in India.
v) On December 28, 1883, two conferences were held simultaneously, one in Bombay
and another in Calcutta, as part of the Indian National Union's activities.
vi) The conferences held in Bombay and Calcutta were conducted under the name
"Indian National Congress" or "Congress." This marked the start of an organization
that played a significant role in India's independence.
vii) In the beginning, Congress aimed not to upset Britain, expressing loyalty to
Queen Victoria, who ruled the British Empire. Its initial goal was to broaden the basis
of government.
viii) In 1886, during its second meeting, the Congress had 436 elected delegates
representing their provinces. Congress expressed its goal to establish an organization
dedicated to promoting the well-being of both India and Britain.
♤ Congress sought to educate the public in India and Britain by publishing resolutions
in newspapers and forming a British Committee.
ix) Congress had limited success. They influenced the introduction of the Indian
Councils Act of 1892, which increased Indian representation in councils, but these
bodies had little power and were mostly disregarded by the British.
x) Eventually, the British began to ignore Congress as well. Lord Dufferin called it a
"microscopic minority" of Indian opinion, and in 1900, Lord Curzon expressed a
desire to see Congress fade away peacefully.
xi) Despite challenges, many Congress members believed in the possibility of the
British granting greater roles to Indians in government.
xii) These "Moderates" trusted in British fairness and saw benefits in British rule, like
political stability and modern justice and education.
xiii) They believed peaceful protest and persuasion could lead the British to loosen
their control.
xiv) Some Indians wanted faster progress, and in the late 1800s, a radical form of
nationalism started to emerge.
♤ Leaders like Bal Gangadhar Tilak passionately called for Indian "freedom." In 1897,
he was jailed for writing a provocative newspaper article.
♤ In the late 1870s, numerous secret societies emerged with the goal of removing
the British from India.
♤ In 1897, a British officer and his companion were assassinated, causing concern
among the British. They responded by taking measures to suppress the situation,
including the partition of Bengal.
ii) Governing this vast area was a significant challenge, with Bengal's population
being ten times that of Britain at the time.
iii) The British suggested dividing Bengal into two provinces in 1903, with Viceroy
Curzon proposing West Bengal and East Bengal.
iv) East Bengal would include Assam, Dhaka, Chittagong, and Mymensingh, aiming for
more efficient governance.
v) In 1905, the British divided Bengal as proposed by Curzon. While some thought it
aimed at efficiency, many Hindus suspected 'sinister' reasons. Regardless of British
intentions, the partition sparked conflict between Muslims and Hindus.
ii) Previously (since 1867) mistrusted by the British, they faced educational
restrictions. Hindus had enjoyed advantages, attempting to replace Urdu with Hindi.
iii) Now, Muslims gained recognition with a majority province, providing relief from
Hindu rule.
ii) The Bengal partition angered Hindus, who declared October 16, 1905, a day of
mourning. Numerous protests and petitions followed, and an assassination attempt
on the future Viceroy, Lord Minto, occurred later.
iii) Hindus initiated a boycott of British goods, promoting the 'Swadeshi Movement.'
They rejected British products, burning cloth in bonfires and embracing locally made
items.
iv) Strikes in places like Calcutta further opposed British actions, leading to a
significant drop in the sale of British goods.
• Tilak arrested in June 1908, sentenced to six years; other radical leaders fled to
avoid arrest.
ii) Muslims, witnessing Hindu protests against the Bengal Partition, feared a reversal.
Recognizing their inability to match the level of protest, they worried about the fate
of the Partition.
iii) Muslims feared Hindu control, worried about Hindi becoming the national
language and forced conversions of Muslims to Hinduism.
iv) The 1905 Liberal government's plan for local elections heightened concerns about
Hindu dominance. Time for Muslims to take action.
v) On October 8, 1906, Muslim leaders, led by the Aga Khan, met Viceroy Minto in
Simla. They requested recognition of Muslims' political importance and
contributions, outlining their demands in 'The Simla Deputation.'
♤ Muslims wanted their own representatives in local and provincial elections, elected
solely by Muslim voters.
vii) Muslim leaders argued that these measures acknowledged the significance of the
Muslim community in India. With many Muslim landowners and a high percentage of
Muslim soldiers in the British army, they emphasized the need for separate Muslim
representatives to prevent communal violence with Hindus in elections.
viii) Morley found the Muslim proposal undemocratic, but Lord Minto accepted their
arguments, agreeing to separate representation for Muslims.
♧ The Muslim community aimed to secure its place in the constitution through its
own methods, highlighting the existing Hindu-Muslim rivalry in both daily life and the
constitution.
》 The Simla Deputation marked the initial move on the path that eventually led to
the creation of Pakistan.
♧The Bengal partition fueled Hindu outrage, deepening the Muslim-Hindu divide. To
ensure Muslim representation, the League aimed to establish its own political
organization, expressing Muslim views to the British.
♧ Despite claims of British involvement, the Muslim League was formed by Muslims
themselves. After separate electorates were accepted and Congress became
predominantly Hindu organisation, Muslim leaders established the party to ensure
their views were heard amid organized Hindu opposition to the Bengal partition.
Formation
In 1906, Muslim leaders convened at the Muhammadan Educational Conference in
Dhaka. Following the conference, Nawab Viqar-ul-Mulk chaired a meeting to discuss
establishing the All-India Muslim League.
Objectives
At its inaugural meeting in December 1906, the League outlined its objectives:
♤The stark differences in resolutions between Congress and the League in key policy
areas marked the beginning of a generation-long political opposition.
ii) The British aimed to hear Indian opinions without granting the authority to alter
government policies.
iii) Morley clarified that these reforms didn't signal a move toward establishing an
Indian parliament, emphasizing their limited scope.
iv) The key outcome of the reforms was the introduction of separate electorates for
Muslims. Hindus criticized it as undemocratic, leading Congress to annually call for an
end to this practice for the next 25 years.
v) Congress misunderstood the British intent; the British aimed for stability, not
democracy in India. They made concessions only to the extent needed for stability,
not to establish a democratic system.
vi) Hindus and Muslims advocated for more rights through separate political
organizations.
vii) The British, responding to Hindu demands, reversed the Partition of Bengal,
eroding the goodwill with the Muslim community since 1905.
ii) King George V announced this decision during his visit to India on December 12 at
a Durbar in Delhi.
iii) The British claimed the Partition reversal was part of their governance policy, but
it was forced by Bengali Hindu opposition.
iv) Despite this, the British moved the capital to Delhi to downplay their success. The
Muslims, unhappy with the decision, recognized the importance of the Muslim
League for fair treatment in India.
♤ In 1912-13, British support for Balkan states against Turkey in the Balkan Wars
fueled discontent among Indian Muslims.
♤They saw it as evidence that the British cared little for Muslim rights. By January
1913, the Muslim League, expressing distrust in British rule, declared its aim as 'a
form of self-government suitable to India.'
♤ This marked a pivotal moment as it aligned the League with Congress in their
shared demand for self-government, improving relations and dispelling the notion
that the League solely supported the British.
i) During World War I in 1914, Indians had mixed views. Many, part of the British
Empire, supported Britain. Over a million enlisted, and their crucial role was
acknowledged by the British, who credited Indian contributions for shortening the
war.
ii) Indian politicians supporting Britain in World War I hoped that, if victorious, Britain
would reward Indian loyalty with reforms for a larger role in governance.
iii) Many Indians, not sympathetic to the British during World War I, saw Britain's
struggles as India's chance for self-government, viewing it as an opportunity amid
Britain's difficulties.
♤ Indian troops' mutiny in the British army in Singapore was crushed, leading to
dozens being executed or imprisoned.
》Due to discontent in India, the British enacted the Defence of India Act, granting
them exceptional powers to handle unrest. Many alleged revolutionaries were either
exiled or imprisoned without proper trial.
The Lucknow Pact
Cooperation between the League and Congress
i) British failure to grant more rights to Indians until 1914, along with repressive war
policies, brought Congress and the Muslim League closer.
ii) In 1915, influenced by Muhammad Ali Jinnah, both groups met in Bombay. Joint
councils were established to enhance mutual understanding on key issues.
iii) Realizing the need to prevent political unrest in India during the war, the British, in
October 1916, hinted at considering proposals for change:
▪ Congress and the League agreed that over half of the Executive Council should be
elected, and the Legislative Council should have a majority of elected members. This
common ground brought the parties closer, as they recognized the need for
cooperation to achieve more concessions.
iv) In 1916, in Lucknow, leaders Jinnah (Muslim League) and Mahajan (Congress)
played key roles in creating the Lucknow Pact.
vi) The Pact outlined common demands on how India should be governed. According
to it:
▪ Increase elected seats on Councils.
i) The Pact marked the first joint demand by Hindus and Muslims for political reform
from the British. Jinnah emphasized that cooperation and understanding between
the two communities were crucial for India's progress.
ii) It was the first time Hindus acknowledged that some level of partition would be
needed in a self-governing India.
iii) Muslims recognized they had a better chance of safeguarding their rights by
collaborating with Congress against the British.
iv) The Lucknow Pact fueled the belief in India that Home Rule (self-government) was
attainable.
▪ In 1917, Home Rule Leagues, led by Tilak and Annie Besant, campaigned
nationwide. Annie Besant, briefly imprisoned, later became Congress President.
▪ In August, E. S. Montagu declared in the British House of Commons a policy of
increasing Indian involvement in administration until self-governance within the
British Empire was feasible.
v) The Pact represented a peak in Hindu-Muslim unity, but the Amritsar Massacre
and Khilafat Movement later triggered a shift towards more communal politics.
ii) Proposed reforms included renaming the Legislative Council to the Legislative
Assembly, with 145 members and 103 elected for 3 years.
iii) Separate electorates for Muslims and Sikhs with 32 reserved seats for Muslims.
vi) Viceroy's authority remained strong; Executive Council had three Indian members.
vii) Provinces had a 'diarchy' system, with reserved and transferred subjects.
viii) Local involvement through Legislative Councils, but ministers chosen by the
Viceroy, retaining real power.
ix) British claimed extension of voting rights, but only 5.5 million (or 2%) of India's
250 million population could vote.
ii) Despite Indians fighting with the British in the War, expectations for greater
concessions were not met.
iii) Congress and the League, united for self-rule, found the reforms disappointing,
leading to condemnation.
iv) Only Congress moderates supported the measures; others were excluded from
the party.
v) Though locals had more say in governance, British retained power through
Viceroy's control.
vi) Unexpectedly, separate electorates for Muslims led to demands from non-
Brahmins, Sikhs, and Eurasians for concessions.
vi) Jinnah resigned in protest, and Gandhi launched a hartal, leading to strikes and
demonstrations in April 1919.
vii) Viceroy ignored opposition, accepted recommendations, and the Rowlatt Act was
passed in 1919.
ii) In 1919, nationalist leaders Dr. Satyapal and Dr. Kitchlew were deported without
trial.
iii) Riots erupted in Amritsar, prompting General Dyer to ban public meetings.
iv) At Jallianwala Bagh, Dyer's troops fired on an unarmed crowd, killing around 400
and injuring 1200.
vii) Hunter Committee in England investigated Dyer's actions, resulting in his removal
from active service without further punishment.
viii) Many Europeans saw Dyer as a hero, but Indians were offended by the British
failure to punish him, contributing to Gandhi's dissatisfaction with British rule. He
said; "Cooperation in any shape or form with this satanic government is sinful''.
Non-cooperation Movement (March 1920):
▪ Indians disillusioned with British rulers.
▪ Jawaharlal Nehru has written about the attitude of the Indian people at this time.
He said:
We were full of excitement and optimism and buoyant enthusiasm. We sensed the
happiness of a person crusading for a cause.
V D Savarkar's Leadership:
▪Charismatic leader V D Savarkar became President, bringing a shift in the party's
progress.
Delhi Proposals:
▪ Muslims to have one-third of seats in the Central Legislature through joint
electorates.
▪ Sindh to receive full provincial status.
▪ Extend British reforms to Balochistan and the North West Frontier Province.
▪ Proportional Muslim representation in Punjab and Bengal based on population.
Objective:
▪ If accepted, Muslims would abandon the demand for a separate electorate.
Origin of 'Khalifa':
• Derived from Arabic root Khalifa, meaning 'to follow or come after.'
• Used initially for Hazrat Abu Bakr, the successor of Prophet Muhammad (SAW).
Evolution of Meaning:
• Umayyads shifted the meaning to signify monarch or ruler.
Religious Development:
• Over time, the Khalifa became a religious figure.
• Ottoman Turks emphasized the Caliph's religious role.
Claim to Loyalty:
• Caliph's religious role used by Ottomans to claim loyalty from Muslims worldwide,
including India.
Introduction
Lucknow Pact Cooperation:
• Muslims and Hindus collaborated for a common aim.
Emergence of Challenges:
• Over time, religious differences surfaced.
Rivalry Impact:
• Afghanistan and Persia faced rivalry between Russia and Britain.
Military Dilemma:
• Many Muslims in the British army opposed fighting fellow Muslims in Turkey during
World War I, leading to desertions.
MaulviFazl-ul-Huq's Call:
• In 1918, the President of the Muslim League expressed concern about Muslim
powers' collapse globally.
British Assurances:
• British assured Indian Muslims that they respected the rights of the Khalifa and the
Turkish Empire.
Recruitment Success:
• Thousands of Muslims joined the British army based on this promise.
Suppression of Opposition:
• British imprisoned leading Muslims like Maulana Muhammad Ali Jauhar and
MaulanaShaukat Ali during the war.
Post-War Treaties:
• Treaty of Versailles treated defeated nations harshly, reducing armed forces and
imposing heavy penalties.
Muslim Concerns:
• Indian Muslims worried about similar treatment for Turkey, considering the fate of
Germany and Austria.
Organized Opposition:
• Indian Muslims organized against the British plan, expressing strong opposition to
the potential dismantling of the Turkish Empire.
C. The Khalifa
Turkey's Muslim Status:
• Sultan of Turkey considered Khalifa, head of the worldwide Islamic community.
• Ruled over the Khilafat Empire, including Mecca, Jerusalem, and Medina.
Key Figures:
• MaulanaShaukat Ali, Maulana Muhammed Ali Jauhar, and MaulanaAbulKalam Azad
played leading roles.
Gandhi's Influence:
• Conference resolutions included boycotting British goods and adopting non-
cooperation.
• Gandhi's advocacy of passive resistance (satyagraha) influenced the movement.
Jinnah's Perspective:
• Jinnah (RA) had reservations, believing India was not yet ready for self-rule.
Collaboration Agreement:
• Agreement to work together to oppose the dismemberment of the Turkish Empire.
• Gandhi chosen to lead efforts in persuading the British against punishing Turkey.
Moplah Uprising:
• Moplahs rebelled against British and Hindu landlords in South India.
• At Tirur, 10,000 Moplahs set the police station on fire, resulting in a British troop
intervention and 4,000 Moplahs killed.
Economic Setbacks:
• Muslims giving up jobs and students forsaking studies as part of the non-
cooperation policy (established in 1920).
• Unfortunate economic consequences for those who emigrated to Afghanistan,
leading to their return to economic misery.
Communal Discord:
• Failure of the Khilafat Movement and joint efforts between Hindus and Muslims led
to a divide.
• Communal rioting after the non-cooperation campaign's cancellation.
• Increased hostility and suspicion, highlighting challenges in coexistence.
Federal Structure:
• India to have a federation with a two-chamber parliament.
Universal Suffrage:
• Universal suffrage introduced for electing the lower house and provincial councils.
Minority Rights:
• No separate electorates for any community or weightage for minorities.
• Protection for minorities through reserved seats in the central parliament.
Equal Rights:
• No state religion, emphasizing equal rights for men and women as citizens.
Official Language:
• Proposal to make Hindi the official language of India.
Gandhi's Resolution:
• Gandhi proposed a resolution, suggesting a one-year ultimatum for the British to
accept Nehru Report recommendations.
• If not accepted, a non-cooperation campaign would be initiated.
Resolution Approval:
• The resolution was passed, indicating a united stance for the proposed demands.
Congress' Non-Acceptance:
• Congress did not accept these proposals, leading to a significant turning point
described by Jinnah as the 'parting of the ways.'
Impact on History:
• The failure to reconcile with Congress marked an important step towards the
eventual partition of India.
• Jinnah shifted focus to clearly communicate Muslim League's acceptable terms.
• A historic occasion occurred on December 31, 1929, where Nehru led a procession
to raise the Indian flag at the banks of the River Ravi at midnight.
• Three weeks later, Gandhi's declaration of Indian independence was read across
India.
More non-cooperation
Congress Non-Cooperation Campaign:
• Gandhi led the non-cooperation campaign against unjust Salt Laws.
• The iconic Salt March began on March 12, originating from Ahmedabad to Dandi.
• The march served as a protest against unfair laws and a broader opposition to
British rule.
• Activities included picketing British cloth shops and boycotting schools, colleges,
and services.
British Response:
• British authorities banned salt-making without government license.
• Congress was outlawed, newspapers were censored, and widespread arrests
occurred.
Jinnah's Disapproval:
• Jinnah disagreed with the non-cooperation plan, fearing Congress dominance over
Muslims.
• Advocated the idea that Islam unites the Muslims into one nation.
• Emphasized the need for Muslim-majority areas to have equal privileges under a
federal system.
• Proposed the amalgamation of Punjab, NWFP, and Balochistan into a single state.
Poetic Inspiration:
• Iqbal's poetry served as a source of inspiration, fostering a sense of nationhood
among Indian Muslims.
• The conference aimed to discuss and address the concerns raised by various
communities and stakeholders.
Attendees:
• Muslim League and representatives of Princely States attended the conference.
Congress Non-Cooperation:
• Congress refused to attend without a guarantee of implementation for agreements
made.
• Despite Congress' absence, Muslim representatives left the conference feeling that
some progress had been made.
The Second Round Table Conference
September 1931
• Gandhi agreed to halt the non-cooperation campaign and attend the next round of
talks.
• Gandhi's firm stance and refusal to address minority issues contributed to the
conference's failure.
Limited Achievements:
• Agreement reached to make NWFP (now Khyber Pakhtunkhwa) and Sindh
provinces with their own governors.
• Little overall progress made, and the British warned of imposing their own solution
to the 'Indian problem' if an agreement was not reached soon.
Muslim Reaction:
• Muslims, though unhappy about reduced majority in Punjab and Bengal, accepted
the Award.
Congress Response:
• Congress rejected the Award and launched a campaign against it.
• Gandhi held meetings with Untouchable leadership, asserting they were not
minorities but part of mainstream Hindu society.
Diminished Expectations:
• Given the events of 1932, none of the involved parties anticipated success in the
third Round Table Conference.
• Congress and major princes boycotted the talks, expressing their lack of confidence.
• Jinnah (RA) in voluntary exile due to disillusionment, not even invited to the
conference.
Muslim Representation:
• Aga Khan represented Muslims, but with only 46 delegates, the conference ended
without substantial agreements.
Divergence in Ideas:
• Disagreed with Muslim representatives advocating for a federation in India.
Advanced Thinking:
• Rahmat Ali's ideas, including partition, were more advanced than those of other
Muslims at the time.
• Even Jinnah (RA) did not initially support the idea of partition in the early 1930s.
He wrote:
"I am enclosing herewith an appeal on behalf of the 30 million Muslims of Pakistan
who live in five northern units of lndia - Punjab, North-West Frontier
(Afghan) Province. Kashmir Sindh and Balochistan'. It embodies their demand
for the recognition of their national status...
• Rahmat Ali held unique views, differing from Allama Iqbal. He advocated for
independence for Muslim homelands, emphasizing a separate and independent
Muslim nation.
The Government of India Act 1935
Government of India Act (1935) Summary:
• Two houses at the central government level: Council of State (elected and
nominated members) and Assembly (elected from British India and nominated from
Princely States).
Provincial Changes:
• Eleven provinces created, including NWFP, Orrisa, and Sindh.
Power Dynamics:
• Governor-General headed the Federation with special powers in reserved subjects.
• Provincial Governors had special powers in reserved areas, including the authority
to dismiss ministers and administration.
Rejection by Princes:
• Princes rejected central government arrangements, preventing its implementation.
Limited Franchise:
• Limited voting franchise with a property qualification, allowing only 25% of the
population to vote in provincial elections.
• Nehru termed it a 'Charter of Slavery,' and Jinnah deemed it 'thoroughly rotten and
totally unacceptable.'
• Parliamentary systems set up with increasing representation for the Indian people.
1937 Elections
Government of India Act (1937) Elections and Responses:
Congress Strategy:
• Initially, Nehru considered boycotting the elections to show disapproval of the Act.
• Jinnah aimed for cooperation between Hindus, Muslims, and minorities for national
self-government.
Strained Relations:
• Nehru's reluctance to improve relations angered Jinnah, who emphasized the need
for unity.
• Muslim League's disappointment as it won only 109 of 482 seats reserved for
Muslims, even in Muslim-majority provinces.
• Revealed that Muslim League's support was stronger in areas where Muslims were
a minority, indicating less perceived threat from Hindu domination.
Reluctant Contest:
• Initially reluctant, Nehru and Congress contested provincial elections due to
overwhelming support.
• Actions reinforced Jinnah's warnings during the election campaign about the
dangers of Congress rule.
Bande Matram
Nationalist Hindu Song and Muslim Concerns (1937):
Compulsory Singing:
• Despite not being an official Congress policy, the singing of the song became
compulsory before the start of official business in provincial assemblies.
Muslim Concerns:
• The compulsory singing of the song raised concerns and offended Muslims.
• Muslims worried about the implications and sentiments behind the song, impacting
their sense of belonging and security in 'Hindustan.
The Wardha Scheme
Gandhian Education Scheme (1937) and Muslim Concerns:
Scheme Overview:
• Based on Gandhi's views, the education scheme was implemented in all Congress
education ministries.
Key Components:
• Teaching in Hindi was mandated.
• Requirement for all students to bow before a picture of Gandhi in their schools.
Muslim Perceptions:
• Muslims perceived these measures as attempts to undermine love for Islam among
their children.
• Muslims prohibited from eating beef, facing harsh punishments for cow slaughter.
• Azaan (call to prayer) forbidden, mosques attacked, and noisy processions near
mosques during prayer times.
Anti-Muslim Riots:
• Anti-Muslim riots occurred, leading to physical attacks, arson on Muslim houses,
and property destruction.
Viceroy's Acknowledgment:
• Viceroy Linlithgow acknowledged instances of "continued oppression in small
ways."
Recognition by Congress:
• Congress acknowledged the League's importance, leading to organized talks
between Nehru and Jinnah in recognition of shifting political dynamics.
Diarchy System
The Diarchy system introduced by the British in the Government of India Act of 1935
was a form of dual government structure. Under this system, certain provinces in
British India were to be administered by elected Indian ministers responsible for
certain subjects, while the British-appointed Governor retained control over reserved
subjects. This was an attempt to gradually transfer power to Indian representatives
while maintaining British authority. However, the Diarchy system faced criticism and
was eventually abandoned in the post-independence period.
[4 Marks Question]
Timeline
1939 Outbreak of Second World War
Congress resigns from government
British Response:
• Britain refused full independence but promised Dominion status after the war.
Congress' Stand:
• Congress rejected the offer of Dominion status.
Resolution Passed:
• Congress passed a resolution expressing disapproval of Nazism and Fascism.
• Supported the British cause but insisted on independence as a condition for full
support.
Responses to Demands:
• Neither the British nor Congress agreed to the Muslim League's demands.
• Disapproved of Nazism and Fascism but didn’t oppose the British like Congress.
• Initially called the 'Lahore Resolution' but later referred to as 'The Pakistan
Resolution' by the Hindu press.
Congress' Response:
• Rejected the Cripps proposals, demanding immediate control of India's affairs.
Congress Strategy:
• Congress sensed British desperation and aims to exploit it for immediate gains.
Gandhi's Argument:
• Believed British departure would eliminate the Japanese invasion threat,
advocating for non-violent protest to persuade the British to leave.
• Called for a mass non-violent struggle on a broad scale to support the campaign.
• Harsh measures, including machine guns and aerial bombing, were employed to
restore British rule, resulting in thousands of Indian casualties.
• Gandhi proposed a meeting with Jinnah (RA) to discuss India's future after the
anticipated British departure.
• Gandhi claimed to speak for all of India, but Jinnah highlighted his role as a
Congress spokesman.
• Gandhi appeared not to support the 'Two Nation Theory,' while it was now official
League policy.
Outcome of Talks:
• Talks ended without agreement, but Jinnah gained some success.
• Lord Wavell consulted with the British government in London on future policy for
India, indicating the British intention to leave.
• The Executive Council would consist of equal numbers of Muslims and Hindus, with
most members being Indian.
• Gandhi led the Congress group, with Abul Kalam Azad included to represent
Muslims not aligned with the League.
• Jinnah pointed out concerns about a permanent Muslim minority due to Sikh and
Scheduled Caste alignment with Hindus.
• Lord Wavell closed the conference on 14 July due to the inability to find a solution.
Outcome:
• Another British attempt to find a solution failed, leaving the issue of India's future
unresolved.
• Congress advocated an undivided and independent India, while the League sought
an independent Muslim homeland.
Results:
• League won 87% of the Muslim vote, all 30 Muslim seats in the Central Legislative
Assembly, and a significant majority in provincial elections.
• Congress won 91% of the non-Muslim vote and controls eight states.
• Muslim realization during Congress rule (1937-39) that standing up for their rights
was crucial.
• Muslim League's success underscored its importance in any settlement for India.
Conclusion:
• The Muslim League's success in 1945 established that no settlement in India could
occur without its approval, signalling a pivotal role in the country's political
landscape.
Delegation's Approach:
• Representatives included Lord Pethick-Lawrence, Sir Stafford Cripps, and A.V.
Alexander.
• Little common ground found between the Muslim League and Congress.
Jinnah's Position:
• Jinnah insisted on the formation of Pakistan with six provinces, considering a
central agency after its establishment.
• Nehru stated that Congress wouldn't feel bound by the plan after the British
departure.
Towards Independence
Nehru's Formation of Interim Executive Council (August 1945):
• British asked Nehru to form an Executive Council as an interim government due to
Congress being the largest party.
• British Prime Minister Attlee decided it was time for decisive action.
• Viscount Mountbatten, the new Viceroy, sent to work out a plan for the transfer of
power.
• Mountbatten realized the urgency for a quick settlement to prevent civil war.
Leadership Roles:
• Mountbatten appointed as the first Governor-General of India.
• Despite objections, partition had already occurred, and there was little that could
be done.
• Many other pressing problems for the newly formed country required attention.
• The Government of India Act would serve as the provisional constitution until the
states devised their own.
This marks a significant moment in history, symbolizing the end of British rule and the
birth of two independent nations: India and Pakistan.
After his time in India, Mountbatten returned to the navy and was promoted to First
SeaLord in 1955. His final promotion was to the post of Chief of Defence Staff, from
which he retired in 1965.
Death in 1976:
• In 1976, Lord Mountbatten was on his boat near his holiday home in Ireland.
• His boat was blown up, resulting in his death.
This tragic event reflects the complex political and historical context surrounding
Northern Ireland during that period.
Ch# 10 Contributions of Jinnah, Allama Iqbal and
Rahmat Ali to the success of the Pakistan
Introduction
Influence of Historical Events:
• The study of history reveals that events sometimes transcend human control,
defying planned outcomes.
• Muhammad Ali Jinnah (RA), Allama Muhammad Iqbal, and Rahmat Ali played
pivotal roles.
• These great leaders not only created circumstances conducive to the formation of
Pakistan but, in Jinnah's case, also established the new state as a member of the
world community.
This underscores the dynamic interplay between historical forces and the influence of
visionary leaders in shaping the course of significant events.
• The Fourteen Points laid the groundwork for future discussions, marking an
important step toward Pakistan.
• Represented the Muslim community in the Round Table talks in London in 1930.
• Stated in 1944 that Muslims and Hindus are two major nations, fighting for Pakistan
as the practical solution to the problem.
Challenges at Independence:
• In August 1947, there were low expectations for Pakistan's survival as an
independent nation.
• Despite the skepticism and challenges, Pakistan not only survived but prospered
under his leadership.
As a Leader
Quaid-i-Azam's Active Role as Governor-General:
• Quaid-i-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah took an active role as Governor-General,
functioning beyond the ceremonial duties.
International Recognition:
• Jinnah secured Pakistan's membership in the United Nations Organization (UNO) in
September 1947, enhancing its global recognition and support.
• The Constituent Assembly was tasked with framing a constitution for Pakistan.
• Karachi became the capital, and the Central Secretariat was established to govern
the country.
• Civil Service rules were drafted, emphasizing the role of officials as servants of the
people.
Economic Development:
• In 1948, Jinnah established the State Bank of Pakistan to aid economic
development.
• His Industrial Policy Statement emphasized the rapid establishment of industries.
• A compromise with India in the Canal Water Dispute ensured Pakistan's agriculture
received necessary water supplies.
• Jinnah persuaded the Indian government to hand over the agreed share of financial
assets from pre-partition India.
• Emphasizing the army's role as "the servant of the people," Jinnah warned against
military involvement in making national policy, expressing his commitment to
preventing a military dictatorship.
Kashmir Conflict:
• Despite the army's initial lack of adequate equipment, Jinnah did not hesitate to
employ it, and the Pakistan army engaged in its first action in the Kashmir conflict.
• Despite being outnumbered and having inferior arms and ammunition, the
Pakistani army demonstrated resilience, holding its ground effectively in the conflict.
If you will work in cooperation, forgetting the past, burying the hatchet, you are
bound to succeed. If you change your past and work together in a spirit that every
one of you, no matter to what community he belongs, no matter what relations he
had with you in the past, no matter what is his colour, caste or creed, is first, second
and last a citizen of this state with equal rights, privileges and obligations, there will
be no end to the progress you will make... even as regards Muslims you have Pathans,
Punjabis, Shias, Sunnis and so on..
Conclusion
Quaid-i-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah's Legacy:
• Despite his declining health, Quaid-i-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah (RA) worked
tirelessly to establish Pakistan.
• Measures were taken to unite the diverse population into a single 'Pakistani' nation.
• Significant steps were made in developing and addressing the challenges faced by
the nascent nation.
• Jinnah was credited with shaping events according to his vision, and he was
considered a legend even during his lifetime.
• His poetry aimed to awaken Muslims to the need for social improvement, earning
him the title "the philosopher-poet."
Political Involvement:
• Knighted by the British in 1922 for his poetry, Iqbal opposed British rule in India and
advocated for a separate Muslim nation.
• Described as the "Architect of Pakistan," Iqbal saw Hindus and Muslims as two
nations requiring separate sovereign states.
Political Roles:
• Elected to the Punjab Assembly in 1926, Iqbal impacted legislative matters.
• Appointed General Secretary of the Muslim League's Sir Muhammad Shafi group in
1927.
• Presided over the All India Muslim League meeting in Allahabad in 1930, advocating
for a Muslim federation with political autonomy.
• His idea of a separate Muslim nation preceded the Muslim League's adoption by
ten years.
Legacy and Death:
• Allama Iqbal passed away in 1938 and was buried outside the Badshahi Mosque in
Lahore.
• His tomb attracts numerous devotees, and Jinnah (RA) acknowledged Iqbal's
enduring influence on Muslim leaders, stating, "Iqbal's poetry, immortal as it is, is
always there to guide us and inspire us."
Education at Cambridge:
• After winning a case for the Nawab of Mazari, Rahmat Ali went to Cambridge
University.
• Awarded a Masters Degree, he was in London during the Round Table Conferences,
advocating for a separate Muslim homeland.
• The term 'Pakistan' was introduced in this pamphlet, giving the new nation its
name.
• Published 'Pakistan, the Fatherland of the Pak nation,' compiling his writings on the
subject.
• Criticized Muslim leaders, including Jinnah (RA), for not fully endorsing his views.
• While the Muslim League adopted the idea of a separate homeland in 1940,
Rahmat Ali disagreed with the partition's terms in 1947.
Post-Independence Challenges:
• Political and geographical problems emerged as Pakistan needed to establish
governance, address social issues, and manage finances.
• Jinnah (RA), who lived for a year after partition, laid the foundation for Pakistan but
couldn't establish a long-term governance system.
Political Evolution (1950s - 1990s):
• Over the next fifty years, Pakistan experienced shifts between parliamentary,
presidential, and military governments as leaders grappled with challenges.
International Relations:
• Seeking alliances, Pakistan initially turned to the USA, especially during the Soviet
invasion of Afghanistan in 1979, receiving significant American aid.
• Pakistan played a crucial role in supporting Afghan mujahideen fighters but faced
economic challenges after the Soviet withdrawal.
Loss of East Pakistan (1971):
• In 1971, East Pakistan became independent as Bangladesh, marking a painful
chapter in Pakistan's history.
Changing Dynamics:
• Despite challenges, by 1999, Pakistan had secured its place as a respected member
of the United Nations and the global community.
Conclusion:
• Pakistan's journey, from uncertain beginnings in 1947 to stability and recognition by
1999, reflects its resilience and efforts to overcome various obstacles in the face of
changing geopolitical dynamics.
The Problems of Partition and the Nascent State
Introduction
Quaid-i-Azam's Inauguration (August 14, 1947):
• Quaid-i-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah (RA) took the oath as the Governor-General of
Pakistan, expressing the enduring nature of the new nation.
Challenges at Inception:
• Despite the declaration of permanence, Pakistan encountered significant
challenges.
Leaders' Skepticism:
• Congress leaders, in particular, doubted Pakistan's viability politically, economically,
geographically, and militarily.
• The prevailing view was that force of circumstances might compel seceded areas to
rejoin India.
Quaid-i-Azam's Challenge:
• Quaid-i-Azam faced the formidable task of not only establishing Pakistan but also
holding it together amid numerous challenges during the partition.
The initial skepticism and challenges laid the groundwork for Pakistan's early
struggles and the determination needed to overcome them under Quaid-i-Azam's
leadership.
Reactions to the Radcliffe Award Radcliffe's Partition Plan (August 17, 1947):
• Sir Cyril Radcliffe's partition plan was made public on August 17, 1947.
Jinnah's Denouncement:
• Jinnah (RA) denounced the Radcliffe Award as unjust and incomprehensible.
• Key Muslim objections included the allocation of Ferozepur and Gurdaspur to India
despite having Muslim majorities.
Sikh Disappointment:
• Sikhs, a significant population in Punjab, were disappointed as their plea for a
separate Sikh state was not considered.
• Hindus were discontented, notably with the decision regarding the Chittagong Hill
Tracts.
• Although having a Hindu majority, Radcliffe awarded them to Pakistan due to their
economic ties with East Bengal.
1. Geographical problems
Partitioned Pakistan (August 14, 1947):
• Pakistan gained independence on August 14, 1947.
• Immediately faced serious problems due to the unique nature of its split geography.
West Pakistan:
• Comprised west Punjab, Sindh, Balochistan, and the North West Frontier Province.
• Princely states of Dir, Swat, Chitral, Amb, Hunza, Gilgit, and Bahawalpur also joined
Pakistan.
Geographical Challenge:
• The two wings of Pakistan were separated by approximately a thousand miles of
Indian territory.
• This separation and vast distance led to significant differences in outlook between
the people of East and West Pakistan.
Diverse Regions:
• Despite both Bengal and west Punjab being largely Muslim areas, they had little
else in common, highlighting the diversity within the newly formed country.
2. Political Problems
1. Lack of Infrastructure:
• Pakistan faced challenges as it didn't inherit government buildings, furnishings, or
officials from the British, unlike India.
2. Political Inexperience:
• India had officials with political experience from the Indian National Congress,
while Pakistan's Constituent Assembly members were mostly wealthy landowners
with limited political experience.
• The Muslim League's support was mainly rural, lacking significant urban support.
3. Geographical Distance:
• The separation between East and West Pakistan made unified governance
challenging, with most leaders coming from West Pakistan.
4. Administrative Machinery:
• Pakistan lacked the administrative and governmental machinery to efficiently run
the affairs of the new country.
3. Economic Problems
Economic Challenges Faced by Pakistan in 1947:
1. Underdeveloped States:
• Pakistan comprised mostly underdeveloped states with limited industry, especially
in regions like the North West Frontier Province.
2. Limited Industrialization:
• Karachi stood out as a modern port with trading and business activities, but many
regions had not experienced the industrialization seen in central India.
3. Rural Population Dominance:
• Around 90% of the population lived in rural areas, with only a few towns having
significant populations.
4. Wealth Disparities:
• Pakistan's major industry, agriculture, lacked the surplus needed for substantial
wealth creation and industrialization.
4. Social Problems
Diversity in Pakistan's Population:
• The imposition of Urdu as the official language raised concerns among those whose
native languages differed.
6. Challenge of Unity:
• Pakistan was not a homogenous nation but rather a collection of diverse people,
necessitating efforts to convince everyone to embrace the new state.
As a prominent member of the Constituent Assembly said in 1951:
'Pakistan is a unique country having two wings which are separated by more than
one thousand miles. The two wings differ in all matters except two things: namely
that they have a common religion, barring a section of the people in East Pakistan,
and we have achieved independence by a common struggle. All other factors, the
language, the tradition, the culture, the customs, the dietary habits, the calendar, the
standard time - practicaly everything, is different.'
• The concern was that independence might lead to uncertainty and potential
conflict.
2. Choice Between India and Pakistan:
• The princely states were given the option to choose between joining India or
Pakistan.
• Gilgit and Kalat in Balochistan also became part of Pakistan, despite some internal
challenges.
4. Bahawalpur's Inclusion:
• Bahawalpur, with a population of 1.5 million, joined Pakistan.
5. Sylhet's Referendum:
• In the East, Sylhet held a referendum, leading its people to choose to join Pakistan.
Hyderabad
Hyderabad: A Princely State:
1. Significance of Hyderabad:
• Hyderabad was the largest princely state in the subcontinent with a population
exceeding 16 million and substantial wealth.
Junagadh
Junagadh: A Disputed State:
1. Geographical Location:
• Junagadh was a small state located on the coast, situated 300 miles south of
Karachi.
2. Religious Composition:
• Despite having a predominantly non-Muslim population, the ruling prince of
Junagadh was Muslim.
• Indian troops were dispatched to surround the state, imposing a blockade that led
to food shortages.
6. Unresolved Matter:
• The issue of Junagadh's status remained unsettled, forming a lingering dispute.
The Kashmir Issue
Jammu and Kashmir Dispute:
1. Strategic Importance:
• Jammu and Kashmir, the largest state in the subcontinent, held strategic
significance with borders touching Tibet, China, Afghanistan, and the USSR.
• The Maharaja initially delayed deciding between joining Pakistan or India, creating
uncertainty.
• Facing rebellion, the Maharaja sought Indian assistance, agreeing to accede to India
in return.
• The matter was referred to the United Nations in January 1948, leading to a
ceasefire.
2. Payment Dispute:
• In June 1947, it was agreed that Pakistan would receive 750 million rupees from the
4 billion rupees in the Reserve Bank.
• India initially paid 200 million rupees, but the rest was withheld due to the
outbreak of war over Kashmir.
3. Gandhi's Intervention:
• Gandhi objected to India's withholding of funds, advocating for fair asset division.
4. Military Division:
• Initially hesitant to divide the armed forces, it was eventually agreed to split them
36% to Pakistan and 44% to India.
• Armed forces personnel were given the choice to opt for the country of their
preference, leading to a division along religious lines.
• Muslim regiments opted for Pakistan, while non-Muslim regiments went to India.
Religious lines were a key factor in the army split.
Pakistan India
Armoured 6 14
Artillery division 8 40
Infantry division 8 21
1. Officer Shortage:
• Pakistan's army of 150,000 men faced a severe shortage of officers, requiring 4,000
officers.
• Only 2,500 trained Muslim officers were available, as the British Indian army had
favored Hindu officers.
• Jinnah (RA) had to enlist 500 British officers temporarily, mostly at the highest ranks
due to the lack of Muslim officers in those positions.
3. Indian Non-Compliance:
• India failed to adhere to agreements, particularly in military matters.
• All 16 ordinance factories were located in India, and they refused to hand over any
to Pakistan.
4. Resource Challenges:
• Lack of military factories in Pakistan forced the country to negotiate for the
construction of an ordinance factory at Wah, using 60 million rupees provided by
India.
• Military supplies from India were often delayed, damaged, or obsolete, leaving
Pakistan with a seriously under-resourced military force.
7. The Canal Water Dispute
Canal Water Dispute: Origins and Challenges:
• West Pakistan, despite its fertility, faced a hot and dry climate, relying heavily on
irrigation from the Indus, Jhelum, and Chenab rivers.
2. Control at Headworks:
• Many headworks, controlling the flow of water, ended up in Indian Punjab.
• The control of these headworks became a source of contention between India and
Pakistan.
• The "water problem" became an urgent matter for the new country, requiring swift
attention and resolution.
1. Pre-Partition Tensions:
• Widespread violence between Muslim and non-Muslim communities occurred in
the years leading up to partition.
• Despite calls for calm from Congress and the Muslim League, the summer of 1947
witnessed rioting and numerous deaths.
• Millions found themselves in the 'wrong' country, triggering the largest migration in
history.
• Over 10 million people moved between India and Pakistan by January 1948, with
varying degrees of willingness and possessions.
4. Organized Violence:
• Violence was sometimes orchestrated by local authorities.
• Muslims believe that Hindus and Sikhs had an organized program for the massacre
of Muslim refugees.
• Nearly 20 million were left homeless, creating enormous problems for both India
and Pakistan.
• In September 1947, martial law was declared in Delhi due to violence initiated by
non-Muslim refugees against local Muslims.
• Cooperation led to a more orderly evacuation of refugees but did not completely
end the violence.