IDEOLOGICAL RATIONALE WITH SPECIAL REFERENCE TO SIR SYED

AHMED KHAN, ALLAMA MUHAMMAD IQBAL AND QUAID-I-AZAM

MUHAMMAD ALI JINNAH.
Ideology of Pakistan
Ideology is a set of beliefs, values and ideals of a group and a nation. It is deeply ingrained in
the social consciousness of the people. It is a set of principles, a framework of action and
guidance system that gives order and meaning to life and human action.
Ideology emphasizes on some particular principles, ideals and blueprint for the future. It is a
review of the existing political, social and economic arrangements that create consciousness
based on its principles. It legitimizes or delegitimizes certain actions and philosophies.
Ideology gives nation a direction and worldview and its implementation is the responsibility of
the concerned people.
Ideology of Pakistan
The ideology of Pakistan took shape through an evolutionary process. Historical experience
provided the base; Allama Iqbal gave it a philosophical explanation; Quaid-i-Azam translated
it into a political reality; and the Constituent Assembly of Pakistan, by passing Objectives
Resolution in March 1949, gave it legal sanction. It was due to the realization of the Muslims
of South Asia that they are different from the Hindus that they demanded separate electorates.
However when they realized that their future in a ‘Democratic India’ dominated by Hindu
majority was not safe, they changed their demand to a separate state.
The ideology of Pakistan stemmed from the instinct of the Muslim community of South Asia
to maintain their individuality in the Hindu society. The Muslims believed that Islam and
Hinduism are not only two religions, but are two social orders that produced two distinct
cultures. There is no compatibility between the two. A deep study of the history of this land
proves that the differences between Hindus and Muslims are not confined to the struggle for
political supremacy but are also manifested in the clash of two social orders. Despite living
together for more than one thousand years, they continue to develop different cultures and
traditions. Their eating habits, music, architecture and script, all are poles apart.
The basis of the Muslim nationhood was neither territorial nor racial or linguistic or ethnic
rather they were a nation because they belonged to the same faith, Islam. They demanded that
the areas where they were in majority should be constituted into a sovereign state, wherein they
could order their lives in accordance with the teachings of Holy Quran and Sunnah of Holy
Prophet (PBUH).
Evolution of ‘Two Nation Theory’
Concept of Muslims as a Nation developed before the establishment of Pakistan. Pakistan was
the product of this concept of nationhood rather than Pakistan creating a concept of nationhood.
Retrospectively the Muslim nationalism emerged with the advent of Islam that introduced new
principles pertinent to every sphere of life. It pledged the redemption of the humankind
establishing a benign society based on Qur’anic teachings.
The beginning of the Muslim nationalism in the Sub-Continent may be attributed to the first
Indian who accepted Islam. The Arab traders had introduced the new religion, Islam, in the
Indian coastal areas. Muhammad bin Qasim was the first Muslim invader who conquered some
part of India and after that, Mahmud of Ghazna launched 17 attacks and opened the gate to
preach Islam.
The Muslim sufi (saints) like Ali Hejveri, Miran Hussain Zanjani etc. entered Sub-Continent.
They, rejecting the vices in the Indian society, presented the pure practical picture of the
teachings of Islam and got huge conversions. Qutub-ud-Din Aibuk permanently established
Muslim dynasty in India that followed Sultanate and Mughal dynasties. Thus a strong Muslim
community had emerged in India who had its own way of life, traditions, heroes, history and
culture.
Islam could not be absorbed in Hinduism. Deen-e-Ilahi, Bakhti movements, etc. created
reaction amongst the Muslim ulama to preserve the pure Islamic character and save it from
external onslaught. Role of Sheikh Ahmad Sirhindi and others is noteworthy. Equality and
social justice inspired conversions to Islam.
Q. JINNAH in his presidential address to the annual session of All India Muslim League
in March 1940 said; “the problem in India is not of inter-communal nature, but
manifestly of an international one, and it must be treated as such.” Write a note on the
Two Nation Theory and the Lahore Resolution of 1940 in the light of this statement.
Quaid-e-Azam and Two Nation Theory
Jinnah was a visionary who rightly exploited the situation at Lahore Resolution to give the Two
Nation Theory a concrete outlook. He brought the Indian problem out of the shackles of
communalism into its internationalized character seeing a situation when during the world war
two years, India was seeking attention of the US President Roosevelt as well.
“The problem in India is not of inter-communal nature, but manifestly of an international
one, and it must be treated as such.” Jinnah’s presidential address to the annual session
of All India Muslim League in March 1940.
Two Nation Theory & Lahore Resolution
Two Nation Theory was an evolutionary theory in the history of the Sub-Continent. It clearly
stated that the Hindus and the Muslims are two different nations who cannot be merged into
one another in political, religious or even socio-cultural way.
Two Nation Theory sought a formal recognition in the address of Jinnah in 1940. Before calling
the Indian issue as an international one, he took time to explain the material and spiritual
differences between the two nations. This was a signal by the Muslim League that from now
on only Two Nation Theory would be the guiding principle of the struggle of the Muslims.
Lahore Resolution of 1940 is important also because it was a platform where the practical
manifestation of the Two Nation Theory was presented by Fazal ul Haq who described the
geographical division feasible under this theory.
Indian Problem as an International One
Jinnah repudiated that Indian problem was mere a communal one. He called it international
problem because;
 Both Hindus and the Muslims fulfilled all the criteria to be called as two nations
  Indian problem was not communal because it was now gaining attention of the world
community
 It was impossible to take this matter a communal one and let it unsolved without
interference of any foreign hand
Conclusion
Two Nation Theory was a concrete reality. Jinnah inculcated this theory effectively on the eve
of All India Muslim League session of 1940. Internationalization of the Indian problem was in
real meaning the manifestation of the Two Nation Theory.
ALLAMA IQBAL’s PRESIDENTIAL ADDRESS DECEMBER 1930
Dr Allama Muhammad Iqbal ranks amongst the Muslim intellectuals who left a deep impact
on history. He inspired Muslims of the Sub-Continent and beyond. He infused a moving spirit
and identity in the Indian Muslims. He presented a framework of their political future and
talked how that would help to achieve the goal of Ummah. He presented a vision and dream in
his Allahabad Address.
1: Background
The Hindu-Muslim question had great importance and stood crucial to British Indian history
after 1857, especially in the 20th century. To Muslims, the key issue remained ‘separate
identity.’ They tried their level best to make the rival nations understand that the Muslims are
a separate nation having different culture and civilization, interests and rights. The Two Nations
theory could not fascinate the Hindus and the British peoples because they believed in
‘territorial nationalism.’ The Hindus desired to absorb them in their majority but they could not
face the arguments of the Muslim intellectuals. By 1930, Muslims had developed a sense of
identity and political demands. Iqbal delivered his Presidential address in this background.
Iqbal’s stay in Europe, 1905-08, helped to crystallize his thoughts. He returned to India in 1908
and started work on the roots of Muslim decline and the mechanism to uplift the Muslims. He
reminded them to follow the teachings of the Holy Prophet (PBUH) practically as the ideal
leader. He emphasized on the ideals, teachings and principles of Islam. He sought salvation
through Islam. He was awarded with many prominent social positions
He delivered lectures on Islam in Aligarh, Hyderabad and Madras (1928-29). At Allahabad, he
presided over the meeting and delivered his famous address.
The Address, December 1930
Iqbal presented a review of the political and social situation of India and solution of the ills
befalling India. He evaluated the importance of role of Islam in the lives of Muslims of British
India. He said that the European view of duality of religion and state does not apply here in the
Indian society. Rejecting the secularism he said, religion is not a totally personal affair.
He explained that Islam offers an ethical order, socio-political structure, legal framework, code
of life, culture and civilization. It is a living, dynamic force that has a profound impact on the
lives of Indian Muslims. With the force of Islam the scattered and disoriented people have been
turned into an organized force.
The Muslims are not willing to submerge their religious individuality. They have lack of trust,
fear of domination from Hindus. If the British want any sort of internal harmony it would be
impossible unless the communal question is settled. It’s historical reality that India is a
continent inhabited by diverse people. No political arrangement may be acceptable without
recognizing this reality.
• If the Muslims have an opportunity to develop in accordance with their Islamic civilization
and tradition, they would be willing to sacrifice their lives for India.
• Federalism cannot succeed without recognizing the national identity of the Muslims.
Territorial redistribution of British India on the basis of religion has become a need of time. •
Punjab, NWFP, Sind and Balochistan be amalgamated into a state, self government within the
British empire or without it. The formation of such a consolidated North Western Muslim state
appears to be the final destiny of the Muslims, at least of North West India. To India, it will
offer peace and security due to internal balance of power. • Islam is a people building force in
India that has given moral consciousness and political identity to the people.
Importance
Iqbal’s address is a forceful and logical presentation of the Muslim case in India.
Why should they be treated as a political entity rather than a minority?
• Territorial adjustments will enable the Muslims to develop themselves in accordance with
their ideals and serve the cause of Ummah.
• Redistribution of territory developed later on concept of Muslim homeland.
• He further expressed these ideas in LETTERS TO JINNAH from May 1936 to November
1937. He talked of a separate federation of Muslim provinces. The North Western India and
Bengal can be considered as entitled to self-determination like other nations in India and
outside. Shariah’s development is impossible without a free Muslim state or states. He advised
the Muslims to be above self-interest and devote themselves to Islam.
• In difficult times, Islam has saved the Muslims.
• Faith, culture and historical traditions are more important than patriotism.
SIR SYED AHMED KHAN:
Why he was considered Pro British:
SSAK saved the lives of many British women and children during the WoI. Since the Muslims
were fighting against the British, this angered the Muslims and they started calling him pro-
British. Sir Syed wanted the Musims to not fight against the British in WoI. As he believed that
they would be easily defeated by the British, as they were a superior power. Therefore he was
called Pro British as everyone thought he was trying to establish British Power.
Muslims of the subcontinent believed that the British were invaders. Whereas Sir Syed believed
that the Muslim should accept that British were rulers of the Indians and should accept their
ideas, such as Western Educational Patterns therefore this angered the Muslims and they
labeled him pro-British.
Why he established the Aligarh movement:
The British considered the Muslims guilty for the 1857 uprising. So after the war, the British
started the policy of repression against the Muslims. Sir Syed wanted to end this policy. He
thus started the movement to strengthen relations between Muslims and British by removing
doubts of the British of Muslim loyalty.
Muslims considered the British as only invaders, and didn’t accept cooperation with them.
SSAK believed that Muslims should accept that British were now rulers and to accept British
ideas, such as Western Education, so that they could improve their social and economic
relations which will enable them to take jobs in civil service and army. The Hindus of the sub-
continent were progressing socially, politically and economically due to their cooperation with
the British. This worried SSAK as he believed that the Muslims would get dominated by the
Hindus and therefore he established the Aligarh Movement to inform the Muslims about the
Hindu threat, and counter it.
Why SSAK tried to improve British
1. Muslim relationship.
The British considered the Muslims responsible for the WoT. Therefore they started a policy
of repression against them. As SSAK wanted an end to this tyranny, therefore he tried to
improve British and Muslim relationship to remove British Doubts about Muslim loyalty.
Muslims considered British as foreign invaders and were thus reluctant to acquire Western
Education whereas SSAK believed that Western Education was important for Muslims to live
a prosperous life. SSAK feared that the Hindus would dominate Muslims as due to their co-
operative attitude towards the rulers, they were developing economically, socially and
politically. Therefore he tried to bridge the gap between the two communities so that Muslims
could accept British Ideas.
Why did SSAK want insist upon Muslims to acquire Western Education?
SSAK asked Muslims to acquire western educations so that Muslims could get civil service
jobs because no language of administration was English and to improve their social and
economic condition Hindus received educations from English schools which improved their
confidence and they viewed illiterate Muslims as inferiors. This worried SSAK and he asked
Muslims to acquire education to come on par with the Hindu. SSAK believed that as Quran
stressed upon knowledge and exploring the universe, therefore western education of science
was in line with the Quranic teachings. So he emphasized upon Muslims to acquire education
to understand the full majesty of God as the creator.
Why SSAK developed his two nation theory:
Firstly Urdu had been the official language of India for many years. However the Hindus
wanted it changed to their language, Hindi. This view wasn’t shared by the Muslims as Urdu
was their main language. This provoked SSAK to give his “Two Nation Theory” as he realized
that the Hindus and Muslims were two different nations because of their opposite cultures.
Secondly the Hindus wanted parliamentary system in India. Sir Syed, however rejected this by
saying that as Hindus were in majority they wanted to dominate the Muslim minority by
winning over election. So that’s why SSSAK advocated his “Two Nation Theory” as he
realized that These nations could not live in harmony.
Thirdly the Congress spoke of open competitive examinations for government jobs. However,
SSAK rejected this as Muslims were not educated enough to pass these exams and so most of
the posts would be taken over the educated Hindus.
2. Efforts to improve British Muslim relations:
Wrote the loyal Mohammadans of India – Gave a detailed account of the loyal services
which Muslims had given and named various Muslims who had shown particular loyalty to the
British. He not only defended Muslims from British accusations that they were disloyal but
also called on them to end their hostility towards the Muslims.
Wrote pamphlet: “Essay on the causes of the Indian revolt” – Pointed out causes of the WOI.
(Poor management of India, forced conversions). Pamphlet helped to convince the British that
they were wrong to blame the uprising of Muslims. Some British readily decreased hostility
and sympathized.
Sir Syed removed the “Nadarath” misunderstanding – British thought this was insult. Sir
Syed said it meant “Helper”. Thus term reflected the positive term the Muslims had of the
British.
Wrote rebuttal of an English book on The Holy Prophet (pbuh)’s life – Corrected errors
concerning the life of the Holy Prophet (PBUH) and Islam. Tried to convince the British that
their Islamic knowledge was limited and needed to improve upon it to remove misconceptions.
Wrote Tabyin ul Kalam (Commentary on the bible) – Pointed out similarities between Islam
and Christianity. This was incomplete, but shows his commitment in improving Muslim British
relationship.
Established British Indian association – A platform where members of both communities
could interact with each other and discuss various issues…helped to improve the level of
understanding and cooperation between the two people.
Wrote pamphlet “Ahka Amet’ame ahle kitab” Food laws of people of the book – Told
Muslims that they were allowed in Islam to dine with other chirstians …Urged upon them that
they were closer to the British than the Hindus (Who were reluctant to eat with the Muslims)
Efforts to make Muslims acquire western education:
Journal on Tehzib ul Akhlaq – This journal included articles from influential Muslims who
agreed with Sir Syed that there was a need for new approach regarding education. Some
Ulemas attacked it, yet it played a major part in bringing about an intellectual revolution
amongst the Muslim thinkers.
Scientific society at Ghazipur – Translated scientific writings from English, Persian or Arabic
into Urdu; the main language of the Muslims. Muslims knew knowledge of science was being
improved. Helped reduce Muslim hatred towards British as they read about scientific works
and realized that they were more than just invaders but had done a lot for humanity through
scientific inventions.
Founded schools in Ghazipur, Muradabad
These efforts of Sir Syed shows his commitment towards expanding educational opportunities
for Muslims as Muslims were reluctant to go in British Schools.
Established MAO (Muhammad Anglo Oriental) school in 1875, made into college in 1877 –
Provided Western and Islamic education on the pattern of English Public School system. This
proved beneficial for Muslims in many ways:
 Provided quality educations to the Muslims of India and after graduating from this
institute they could get better jobs in the Government Department.
 It became a symbol of unity for Muslims in the absence of the Muslim League.
 Many future leaders of Pakistan were educated there and many historians believe that
this institution contributed the most for the formation of Pakistan.
 It also helped to improve British Muslim relationship as not only many British were
teaching in this institute which created respect in the hearts of Muslims for the British
but also after receiving English education, now the Muslims were in a better position
to communicate with the British in their language and remove misconceptions.