The Realization of Two Nation Theory – Part One

The Realization of Two Nation Theory – Part One

The Muslims of the sub-continent faced a torrid time after the war of independence in 1857. As the British called it a ‘mutiny’ on part of the Muslims, the later were deprived afterwards in all the fields of life, including economy and education.

However, because of the efforts of Sir Syed Ahmed Khan, the Muslims realized that the only way forward for them is to go for modern education and a lifestyle which is closer to the British. He wanted the make sure that the Muslims are aware of the fact that
the world has changed drastically and no nation can move forward by neglecting the importance of education. It was Sir Syed, who for the first time used the word ‘nation’ for the Muslims of India.

His efforts did not go in vein and the Muslims were able to raise their level of education in the coming decades, although, they still lacked way behind The Muslims tried to consolidate their position in India afterwards and tried to live alongside the Hindus
under the government of the British.

However, the agitation by the Hindus against the partition of Bengal and its eventual annulment turned out to be a historic event in the politics of India. It made the Muslims realize that they are a separate nation and no matter what they do, it is almost
impossible for the Hindus and Muslims to live together peacefully as both the nations belong to different civilizations and have different interests.

After the annulment of the partition of Bengal, the leadership of Hindus and Muslims made a sincere effort for the Hindu-Muslim unity in shape of the Lukhnow Pact. However, this period of romanticism came to an end at the anti-climax of the Khilafat Movement
in India. From this point onwards, Hindus and Muslims never came close again and the distances grew further with the passage of time.

Subsequent events like the Nehru Report and Quaid’s reply in shape of 14 Points further enhanced the differences between Indian National Congress and All India Muslim League. The leadership of Muslims wanted the right of separate electorates for the Muslims
and other minorities as well, but Congress was of the opinion that India is one nation and therefore, there is no need of creating divide on the basis of religion.

To be continued in next part …

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Posted by Yasir Hashmi on Oct 27 2011. Filed under Opinion, Pakistan. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0. You can leave a response or trackback to this entry