Section 2 by Javed Kausar

Section 2 Revision Guide 2059 History and Culture
Section 2: The emergence of Pakistan 1906–47

⮚ PARTITION OF BENGAL 1905
⮚ SIMLA DEPUTATION 1906
⮚ MUSLIM LEAGUE 1906
⮚ MORLEY MINTO REFORMS – 1909
⮚ WAR YEARS 1914-1918
⮚ LUCKNOW PACT – 1916
⮚ MONTAGUE CHELMSFORD REFORMS 1909
⮚ ROWLATT ACT – 1919
⮚ AMRITSAR MASSACRE – 1919
⮚ KHILAFAT MOVEMENT 1919-1924
⮚ NEHRU REPORT 1928
⮚ FOURTEEN POINTS OF JINNAH 1929
⮚ SIMON COMISSION – 1927
⮚ ALLAHABAD ADDRESS – 1930
⮚ ROUND TABLE CONFERENCES – 1930 - 1932
⮚ CHAUDRI REHMAT ALI 1933
⮚ GOVERNMENT OF INDIA ACT – 1935

⮚ 1937 ELECTIONS 1937
⮚ CONGRESS RULE 1937 – 1939

⮚ LAHORE RESOLUTION – 1940
⮚ CRIPPS MISSION – 1942
⮚ QUIT INDIA MOVEMENT – 1942
⮚ GANDHI JINNAH TALKS – 1944
⮚ SIMLA CONFERENCE– 1945
⮚ ELECTIONS 1945 – 1946
⮚ CABINET MISSION PLAN – 1946
⮚ DIRECT ACTION DAY – 1946
⮚ 3RD JUNE PLAN 1947
Javed Kausar (03334330637) STUDENTS RESOURCE®

The Indian National Congress

● At the end of 19th century: both the British and Indian realized that Indians need a
political body.
● 1833: Indian Association suggested British member of the Parliament wrote for the
Times newspaper. That Indians really needed a Political Body.
● Allan Octavian Hume (former Indian Civil Service member) wrote letters to all
graduates of Calcutta University, calling them to take a lead in setting up a political
body. Set up Indian National Union with branches in different cities.
• first Indian Nation Union conference Bombay: 28 December 1883
• Second Conference was held in Calcutta under the name of Indian National Congress
marked the beginning of first Indian National Congress.
• It was a united Party and one for all to promote our welfare and the welfare of our
mother country.
● By educating the public in India and in Britain. Its resolution was printed in
newspapers and a British Committee of the Congress formed.
● By persuading the British to end unfair practices
● Congress had little success: persuade British to introduce Indian Councils Act 1892
(increased the number of Indians in the council).
Unrest developed
Bal Gangadhar Tilak made impassionate speeches calling for ‘freedom’ of Indian people.
He was imprisoned for writing a provocative newspaper article
During 1870s, many secret societies sprung up aimed at ridding India of British
1897, British officer along with companion were assassinated.
These activities forced British to take some measures/actions. One of them was Partition of
Bengal.
Partition of Bengal 1905
The partition of Bengal was the most important event during the rule of Lord Curzon. It was
carried out mainly for the convenience of administration. Bengal in those days was the
biggest province of India extending over 1, 89, 000 square miles with a population of
around 85 million. It was comprising of Bengal, Behar and Orissa and was under the central
of one lieutenant Governor.

Bengal was largest

province in India
and it was very
difficult to
administrate so
Lord Curzon
suggested the
British in 1903 to
divide Bengal into
two parts which
was put into effect
in 1905. The
Hindus were in
majority in West
Bengal while
Muslims were in
majority East
Bengal. There
were 85 million
people living there, 54 million were living in West Bengal (Calcutta its capital) out of which
42 million were Hindus and 12 million were Muslims and the eastern province with Dhaka
as its capital, would include Assam and three districts previously considered to be a part of
West Bengal, Dhaka, Chittagong and Mymensingh. It had a population of 31million people
out of which 18 million were Muslims.
1. The reason for the partition was mainly all administrative
2. Law and order situation
3. Crime rate was increasing
4. Limited sources of communication
5. Taxation was a problem
6. Difference of language
7. To develop trade in East Bengal and promote the port of Chittagong
8. To weaken congress protests
9. East Bengal was an underdeveloped area comprising of marshes
Bengal was as large as France and had a significantly larger population. Curzon had
stated that the eastern region was neglected and under-governed and hence, by
splitting the province, an improved administration could be established there.
Moreover, The other reason for partition is believed to be that the Hindus were in a
better position in terms of economic status and professional qualities than the
Muslims; and during the pre-Sepoy Mutiny period, Hindu traders had greatly helped
the British while their Muslim counterparts did not.
Muslim Reaction
The Muslims greatly welcomed the partition and felt jubilant over it because in the newly
created East province, they were in majority. On 22nd October 1905, a large number of
Muslims met at Dhaka & appreciated thanks giving prayers to celebrate the establishment
of the new province. Now at last the Muslims had true recognition – a province in which

they were in the majority and could progress in terms of education and jobs in government
services. This would enable millions of Muslims to escape from the oppression of Hindu rule.
Hindu Reaction
The Hindus could not digest the prosperity of the Muslims and on the other hand reacted
violently to the partition because they had been holding a privileged position in the socio-
economic life of Bengal till the partition took place. They now believed that they lose their
status & declared that the partition was an attempt to weaken & divide Bengal and called it
“Divide and rule” policy of British. The Hindus greatly opposed this partition & started a
movement generally known as “Swadeshi Movement” in which they boycotted all English
goods. Many Hindus observed he partition day as the day of National mourning. Even the
Indian national congress supported the Hindus.
What were the reasons of the partition of Bengal 1905?
Poor administration led the partition of Bengal in 1905. It was a huge province and a
population of Bengal was nearly 85 million. It was hard to manage as one united province.
Partition of Bengal was suggested by Lord Curzon in 1903 and it was put into effect in 1905.
Bengal was as large as France but with a significantly larger population it was a huge
province to govern as one unit as long as long time was needed to reach the decisions
across the province so British were facing many administrative problems. Therefore, the
British thought that it would be more efficient to rule it as two smaller provinces by dividing
it in East and West Bengal.
Religious reasons also played an important part in the partition of Bengal. In united Bengal
Muslims and Hindus population was in millions, communal clashes and animosity was at
large scale. The religious riots were increasing between Muslims and Hindus in Bengal. so, it
seems sensible to divide up the province on religious grounds to control conflicts between
Hindus and Muslims. it was also British sensible action by which two communities could be
divided into two separate provinces which would enable both communities to live according
to their own customs traditions and values.
Regional disparity was also one the reasons for the partition of Bengal. Eastern Bengal was
almost isolated from the western part of geography and poor communications. the eastern
region was thought to be neglected and under governed by splitting the province and
improved administration could be established in the east where subsequently the
population would benefit from new schools and employment opportunities. so regional
disparity was so sharp that the British were forced to take notice of the plight of the east
Bengal and came up with the decision to divide Bengal into two parts as they thought east
Bengal would be better off in a separate province governed from Dhaka.
The political reasons also played very important role as Hindus in Bengal were politically
more experienced and organized, moreover, they dominated and wanted greater
participation in governance and their position would be weakened because Muslim would
now dominate in east therefore Hindus believe that it was a deliberate plot of British to
divide their most educated province in order to reduce Hindu threat by reducing their unity.
The Hindus viewed it as a cynical exercise in their divide and rule policy which had enabled
them to ease the British rule in the subcontinent.

Nationalism, in Bengal by the end of the 19th century, was growing rapidly growing. Some
Hindu leaders such as Bal Gangadhar tilak who emerged as the first Indian nationalist who
made the impassioned speeches calling for freedom, some writers wrote provocative
newspapers articles. Some Hindus were even involved in revolutionary activities. Some
British officers and their companions were assassinated and these activities worried the
British who were forced to take measures to calm down the situation.
The language issue also remained extremely important for the partition of Bengal. Bengal
was inhabited by different ethnic group speaking different languages like people of Bihar
spoke Bihari language, people of Orissa spoke orea language and people of east Bengal
spoke Bengali language. It was difficult for British to accommodate different groups under
one administration. This caused administrative problems which convinced British to divide
the province.
British Reaction against Hindu’s protests
1) Restrictions were placed on newspapers and public meetings
2) Press Act 1908 (even greater control)
3) Prisons filed with ‘revolutionaries’
But soon they realized that attempts to crush Hindus are not sufficient thus reforms showed
up (Morley-Minto Reforms)
Reversal of Partition 1911

Riots and protests
Hindus rejected the partition of Bengal and Congress strongly opposed the partition and
demanded the reversal of the Partition of Bengal. Hindus started a political movement
against the partition. Riots and protests were very common and there were hundreds of
protest meetings. Hindus used print media to organize people against the partition. Articles
were written in Hindi newspapers which played an important role to create opposition and
hatred among the Hindus they became united against the partition.
Meetings and mass rallies
The Hindus opposed it by holding meetings and mass rallies which put pressure on the
British government. The Hindus objection to partition was so great that it caused the British
to consider it. A few extremists Hindus adopted terrorist activities and they made
unsuccessful assassination attempt on Lord Minto. They attacked on the governor
government office and officers. The train of the governor of Bengal was derailed and officer
of the Secretary of State was killed by a bomb. The Hindus were so angry that they
attempted to assassinate the future viceroy Lord Minto but he survived.
Swadeshi Movement
The British began to feel that instead of creating a better administration the partition had
made the administration worse so they decided to reverse it. The Hindu started Swadeshi
Movement which spread rapidly. Under the movement, British manufactured goods were
boycotted by the Hindus. British salt, clothes or any other manufactured product was
boycotted Hindus campaigned to buy Indian produced goods and British clothes were
thrown into a bonfire and it became a matter of honor to wear locally produced clothes. At

the same time some Indian workers such as those in Calcutta began a series of strikes to
show their opposition. Soon in the sale of the British goods dropped dramatically and profit
was reduced. Swadeshi movement cut imports of the British goods in India so to overcome
the economic losses British decided annulment of the partition of Bengal.
Delegation
Congress also sent a delegation consisting of some important political leaders to London to
meet the senators of the ruling party in London and convinced them that partition of Bengal
was unfair with the people of Bengal. They convinced the members of the ruling party that
the whole Bengali nation was against the partition and it would only bring political and
economic problems for the British government.
Civil disobedience movement
The Congress started the civil disobedience movement and they refused to work in the
government offices and attend schools. They did not obey laws or pay rents and taxes under
civil disobedience movement; the British began to feel that instead of creating better
situation the partition had made more problems so they decided to reverse it.
The Muslim welcomed the partition and Hindus rejected it. Therefore, political conflicts
between both nations started Hindu Muslim rioting in India was further increased when
shops carrying foreign clothes were burned and since many of these were owned by the
Muslims so to control these conflicts and Hindu Muslim riots British decided to reverse the
partition of Bengal.
Divide and rule policy
Hindus thought that it was a deliberate attempt to divide and rule policy of the British. They
believed that British had tried to weaken Hindu unity by dividing Bengal and establishing
east Bengal with the Muslim majority. They feared that the Muslim given a chance might
improve their financial conditions, revival of the education and learning amongst the
Muslims. Hindus also feared that this would reduce the so-called Hindu threat.
Muslims Reaction to Reversal of Partition
The reversal of the partition was bitterly opposed by the Muslims, but the British were not
to be moved. The Muslims now realized just how vital it was that the Muslim league
prospered if Muslim were to receive fair treatment in India. They now had lost all their
hopes & created feeling of distrust among the Muslims about British. The deep
disappointment caused by annulment of the Partition, however indirectly served to quicken
the growth of the Muslim politics. They became politically more conscious. They came to
the decision that they could not trust the British Government for the protection of their
rights.
Muslims lost faith in British to allow them any real power. Muslims also realized that Minto-
Morley reforms did not provide Indians any genuine voice, which resulted as Poor relations
between British and Muslims.
The partition was highly condemned by all Hindus and they charged the government for
disrupting the Bengali nationality. Hindus declared the day of the partition of Bengal as day
of national tragedy. For the Bengali Hindus the partition aroused fury amongst the Hindus

they proclaimed 16 October 1905 the day partition was put into effect as the day of
mourning they sent many petitions to the government which put political pressure under
government to revert their decision. Due to these political protests, the two parts of Bengal
were reunited in 1911.
The British failure to control the Hindu protest against partition was another reason for the
annulment. First, British tried to control Hindu protests by force, Tilak and other important
leaders were arrested and soon local prisons were filled with revolutionaries. Restrictions
were placed on newspapers and public meetings, but the British realized that using tough
measures to crush the Hindus would not be sufficient. Indian National Congress also
threatened to boycott the coronation ceremony of George 5 and under all these threats and
all these circumstances the British wisely had decided to reverse the partition of Bengal.
The British felt that this was quite appropriate to reverse the partition of Bengal in
December 1911 when King George v visited India and he announced the shifting of the
capital of British India from Calcutta to Delhi and the annulment of the partition of Bengal.
Simla Deputation 1906

Background
Muslims watched Hindu reaction on partition of Bengal and decided something had to be
done to protect their identity. Furthermore, National Congress was dominated by Hindus
thus Muslims needed a base of their own as their voice for the British (Hindus could not be
trusted to favour Muslims). Muslims wanted to stand up and have some rights (They needed
to get some reforms and right of separate electorate to protect their interests, religion and
language).
Moreover, the new British government (Liberal Party) had stated that they would increase
local participation in the government through elections Muslims feared that soon they
would be under Hindu dominance. So, they had a meeting with Viceroy Minto in Simla on
8th October 1906.
Introduction:
The Hindu opposition of Urdu and partition of Bengal revealed it to the Muslims that the
Hindus would never allow the Muslims a respectable position in the Indian society. The
political scene of India, at that time, was dominated by the vigorous activities of the
Congress who had no rival in the political arena. The Muslims believed that only as
organized struggle would lead them to success.
The political awakening of the Muslims of the Sub-Continent found its meaningful and
effective expression on October 1st, 1906, when a delegation of 35 Muslim leaders met Lord
Minto to present the demands of the Muslim community. The Muslims of Indo-Pak were in
minority and were not satisfied with the system of joint electorates because under this
system they did not get a due representation in the presence of Hindu majority.
Members of the Deputation:
The delegation consisted of 35 members representing all parts of the country. It was led by
His Excellency Sir Agha Khan who was his way to China and broke his journey at Colombo to
render this valuable national service.The deputation was included the members from

Bengal, Punjab, U.P., Bombay, Madras, Sindh, C.P., Deccan, and Delhi. The members of
deputation were drawn from the Muslim elite class, but most of the members of deputation
were connected with the Aligarh movement. Besides these members, others were
associated with different semi-political parties like Anjuman-i-Islam, National Mohammedan
Association etc.
Demands of the Muslims:
Main demands put forwarded by the delegation:
1) The Muslims may be granted the right of a separate electorate to choose their
representatives.
2) Muslim judges may be appointed more frequently.
3) The Muslims may be given due representation in the imperial legislative council.
4) At least one Muslim may be appointed in Viceroy’s Executive council.
5) Muslims may be given due representation in gazetted and Sub-ordinated Ministerial
Services.
6) Muhammadan Anglo Oriental College(M.A.O) should be raised to a status of a university.
Lord Minto’s Response to the Muslim Leaders:
Lord Minto gave much importance to the demands of the Muslims presented by Simla
Deputation. He expressed his complete agreement with the principles of the separate
electorates. He promised to give a sympathetic consideration to the demands and assured
the deputation that he would do all what was possible to meet the demands.
Importance of the Simla Deputation:
Simla Deputation enjoys great importance in the history of Pakistan Movement. It was
through this deputation that the Muslims of India for the first time highlighted their
demands as a community on national level. According to I.H. Qureshi:
The Simla Deputation occupies a crucially important place in the history of Muslim-India. For
the first time the Hindu-Muslim conflict was lifted to the constitutional plane. The rift in the
society was now to be reflected in legal and political institutions. The Muslims made it clear
that they had no confidence in the Hindu majority that they were not prepared to put their
future in the hands of assemblies elected on the assumed basis of a homogenous Indian
nation. By implication the Muslims rejected the idea of a single Indian nation on the ground
of that the Muslim majority had an entity and could not be merged into Hindu majority.
After the Simla Deputation the Muslims decided to continue the spirit of Muslim
coordination and cooperation in the political field. Nawab Mohsin-ul-Malik took a step
forward in this connection and wrote to Agha Khan, “The deputation which went to Simla
should be kept alive, and I suggest that a committee of members of deputation should be
appointed to correspond with the Government for the realization of the representation
made. This is the work of All-India Conference and if you agree, I should make detailed
proposals.” Agha Khan agreed with the Proposals in December 1906 and the leaders who
took part in the Muhammadan Educational Conference at Dacca in December in 1906

founded All-India Muslim League, as Muslims came to the idea of a separate community and
that they should be treated differently.
The Formation of Muslim League 1906
Background:
After the defeat in the war of Independence. The Muslims became the target of British
victimization. To save the Muslims from atrocities of Britishers, Sir Syed Ahmed Khan took
the responsibility of protecting rights of the Muslims without formation of any political
organization. After the death of Sir Syed Ahmed Khan in 1898, the anti-Muslim activities of
congress further increased. At last, a Delegation consisting of 35 members, under the
leadership of Sir Agha Khan met the Viceroy of India. Due to the positive answer of viceroy,
a feeling of Confidence and unity was created. The All-India Muslim League was created out
of this Convection.
Introduction:
Muslims Leader met at Dhaka in Dec, 1906 on the occasion of annual meeting of
Mohammadan education conference. The meeting took place at Dhaka under the
presidency of Nawab WaqurilMulk, Sir Suleman [the Nawab of Dhaka] voted the resolution
for establishing Muslim organization to be called as All India Muslim League. Hakim Ajmal
Khan and Moulana Zafar Ali also supported the Resolution.
Aims and Objectives:
1. To Provide the Muslims of India feeling Loyalty to the British Government.
2. To provide the rise among the Muslims of India any feeling of hostility towards other
community without prejudice to other objects of League.
3. To Protect Muslims and Rights and Interests.
Head Office
Aligarh was at a central position in the Political, Educational and Economic Progress of
Indian Muslims. So, the Head Office of All India Muslim League was Also formed in Aligarh.
In the Meeting of March 1908, Sir Agha Khan was elected as President and Syed Hasan
Bilgrami was elected as a General secretory of Muslim League.
REASONS OF CREATION:
Indian National Congress was founded in 1885 and it turned to be a Hindu Organization,
demanded Hindi as national language and INC advanced only the Hindu views, Hindu
extremism also began and Muslim conversion into Hinduism started.
Hindu Urdu Controversy: In 1898 INC demanded that India should be treated as cultural
whole & Hindi should be declared as the official language of India. Some Muslim leaders
launched a movement against these actions of INC but no result.
Behaviour of different Hindu Organization: Hindu extremist group “ARYA SAMAJ”
demanded that Muslims should be forcibly converted into Hinduism.

Hindu Muslim riots: The frequent and never-ending riots between Hindus and Muslims
further strengthened the formation of separate political party for the Muslims. These riots
generated the spirit on Muslims Nationalism among the Indian Muslims.
Reaction of the Hindus to the Partition of Bengal: The negative reaction of the Hindus
when the government declared the partition of Bengal in 1905 further convinced the
Muslims to establish their own separate political organizations.
Success of Simla Deputation (1906): Lord Minto became a Viceroy of India in 1906 & it was
felt that some constitution reforms would be introduced in India. Lord Minto was
vacationing at Simla where a delegation of Muslims leaders led by Sir Aga Khan met him in
1906. The deputation demanded the seats in the legislatures, quota in government services
& seats in courts for the Muslims. They also demanded for separate electorate for the
Muslims. Minto accepted most of the demands & it was a great success for the Muslims.
After the acceptance of demands from Lord Minto, now Muslims of India realized that it’s
high time to organize a political party, which can protect the rights of Muslims in India.
ACHIEVEMENTS OF MUSLIM LEAGUE:
1. Representative of Muslims of Sub-continent.
2. Answer to Congress Propaganda.
3. Approval of Separate Election.
4. Formation of Aligarh Muslim University.
Morley Minto Reforms, 1909

⮚ The reforms were drafted by Lord Minto the Viceroy of India and John Morley, the
secretary of state.
⮚ British were convinced that the Indian demands for increase share in the govt. were
justified.
⮚ Imperial Legislative council was increased to 60 members by adding some non- official
members nominated by Nawabs. (The non-official members nominated by Nawabs
remained in majority and they would always vote for the British.)
⮚ The central legislative council was increased by adding 60 new members they could
discuss the matter of importance and advise the govt.
⮚ The provincial councils were increased to 50 members in larger provinces and 30
members.
⮚ Viceroy’s executive council was also setup which was consisted of 6 members. For the
first time, an Indian was included in Viceroy’s executive council.
Why did Indian National Congress oppose Marley -Minto reforms?
• It failed to give more rights to the Indians again inadequate political rights System of
election was not fair.
• British govt. did not give any special importance to any of these council and the ultimate
powers remained with the British.
• Self-rule was not discussed. Only one Indian in the Viceroy’s Executive Council was not
sufficient to represent the whole Indian community.
• Indians could not legislate; they could only recommend.

• Two Indian members, Jinnah and Nehru, were added to Imperial Council. Congress
wanted a democratic system but British worked on “Divide and rule” policy.
• Most importantly, Muslims demands (1/3rd seats and separate electorates) were
accepted and the reversal of the partition of Bengal was also not discussed.
• Voting rights were also not satisfactory.
• Woman were not given the right to vote or any political status.
Importance:
⮚ appeared to give Indians more say, but they had no power, just an advisory role was
given
⮚ One Indian member was added in Viceroy’s Executive Council and one to each provincial
council
⮚ British did not want to that locals have power to change law
⮚ Imp: acceptance of separate electorates, it was major demands of Muslims
⮚ Hindus believed that it was undemocratic
India before First-World-War
1912-13: The British supported the Balkan states fighting against Turkey (who was a major
Islamic state). It showed up that the British had no interest in supporting Muslims’ rights.
During this period War Improved League-Congress relations
The war years in India 1914-1918
⮚ War broke out in Europe in August 1914
⮚ The supporters: British admitted ‘the war could have been longer and even not have
been won, without the Indian support. Many politicians/ people supported; they also
desired to be rewarded by reforms to give larger role in government for loyalty.
⮚ The opportunist: they saw British ‘necessity’ as India’s ‘opportunity’. ‘Anti-British group’
began to take action.
⮚ 1915: planned uprising by Indian ‘nationalists’ in Punjab…easily put down by British
⮚ A mutiny by Indian troops serving in the British army in Singapore was crushed.
⮚ ‘Silk Letter Conspiracy’ in which anti-British Muslims proposed a general uprising by the
Muslims to free themselves from British rulealso went unsuccessful.
⮚ As a result of discontent within India British were forced to pass the Defense of India Act
(gave British extraordinary powers to deal with unrest. Hundreds were exiled or
imprisoned without proper trail.
The Silk Letter Conspiracy
It is known as Tehrek-e-Reshmi Rumal, is the name given to a plan by Deobandi leaders to
launch a Pan-Islamic uprising in British India during World War I by enlisting the aid of
Ottoman Turkey, Imperial Germany, and Afghanistan.

Between and , Deobandi leaders MaulanaObeidullah Sindhi and Maulana

Barkatullah organised the silk movement, which sought to liberate India from British
domination by forging alliances with Ottoman Turkey, Imperial Germany, and Afghanistan.
The name comes from the silk fabric used to write the letters. In October , Maulana
Obaidullah Sindhi and Maulana Mehmood Hasan travelled to Kabul with the intention of
starting a Muslim uprising in the Indian tribal region as World War I was beginning. Ubaid
'Allah was to suggest that the Amir of Afghanistan declare war on Britain for this reason, and
Mahmud al-Hasan was to enlist the cooperation of the Germans and Turks. Hasan continued
toward Hijaz. In the interim, Ubaid Allah was successful in developing cordial ties with Amir.
As the strategies for what became known as the Silk Letter movement came into play.
SOURCE A
We must say that today, behind the ranks of one of the finest armies in the world, there
are millions of Indian people, ready to cooperate with the British government in defence of
an Empire to which we are proud to belong. In the presence of a common enemy, be it
Germany or anyone else, we set aside our differences. India has always been loyal. Our
future development in terms of prosperity and the recognition of our rights as citizens
depends on our loyalty now in Britain’s hour of need.
Adapted from an editorial in the Calcutta Bengali newspaper commenting on India’s
entry into the First World War, 1914
A vintage postcard celebrating the coronation of King George V and Queen Mary in Delhi,
1911
Section A
This question is about Anglo-Indian relations between 1911 and the early 1920s.
Study the sources (Insert) carefully and then answer the questions which follow.
(a) According to Source A, what were the reasons for India supporting Britain in the First
World War? [3]

(b) What can we learn from Source B about the British presence in India at this time? [5]
(c) Explain the importance of the Luck now Pact of 1916. [7]
(d) To what extent had India benefited by the early 1920s from supporting Britain in the
First World War? Explain your answer [10]
The Lucknow Pact, 1916

Background
• The British failed to grant more rights to Indians.
• After the reversal of the partition of Bengal
1911, Muslims changed their stance and
decided not to coordinate with the British but
with the congress.
• Kanpur Mosque tragedy 1913
• Young generation of Muslim League wanted to
bridge the gap between INC and Muslim League.
• Liberal politicians such as Mr. Jinnah joined
Muslim League in 1913.
• He was considered the ambassador of Hindu-Muslim unity. (In December
1916, AIML and Congress met in Lucknow. It was due to untiring efforts of Jinnah
that the Congress “agreed to separate electorate, for the first and the last time”. 5
To applaud these efforts of Jinnah, he was given the title of 'Ambassador of Hindu-
Muslim unity' by Sarojni Naidu.)
• Delay in elevating the Aligarh College to University also provoked the Muslims to co-
operate with the congress.
• The passion for self-government among Indians.
• WW1 started and realization was made that it was the right time for the Indians to
put more pressure and on the British for their demands.
• Newspaper played a very important role in bringing Congress Muslim League closer.
• INC accepted separateelectorates for the first and last time.
• Muslim should be given 1/3 seats in the council.
• No act affecting a community supported unless ¾ of the community opposed or
supported it.
• Minorities should be protected in the provinces.
• Provincial autonomy.
• System of weightage was accepted.
• It was a milestone in the Indian history and a great example of Hindu Muslim unity.
• It also reflected the political expertise of Mr. Jinnah.
• The failure of The British to grant more rights moved Congress and League together.
• On the persuasion of Jinnah, the two organizations held meeting at Bombay in 1915.
At the same point a joint council was set up to improve common understanding
British realized that they needed to take steps to face a serious political unrest and at the
same time they were fighting against Germany and its allies.

Joined demands:
1. Number of elected seats of the Council should be increased to 150
2. All provinces should have autonomy
3. Minorities should be protected
4. Motions which were passed by large minorities in the Councils should be accepted as
binding by the British government
5. No act would be passed until 3/4th of the members of the community agrees to it.
6. Principle of weightage should be introduced
Importance
It marked the first acceptance by the Hindus that a degree of partition would be necessary
The first Agreement between Congress and Muslim League showed that Muslims; have
acknowledged they stood more chance if worked with Congress
It was a recognition that the Muslim league would speak for the Muslims.
It established Jinnah as the focal point for this agreement and showed his great political
abilities. It was done because the Muslim League felt that they needed the support of
Congress in its early years. Because they thought they could pressurize British together in
accepting their demands.
The Montague Chelmsford Reforms, 1919

Background and Proposal
In November 1917Viceroy of India, Lord Chelmsford, and Secretary of
state, Lord Montague carried out a fact-finding tour of India. The
British had offered concessions in Montague Chelmsford Reforms,
which they hoped would win the support of the Indian people.
However, they had every intention of taking strong and effective action
against any element in India, which opposed British rule.
So, in July 1919: Montague-Chelmsford Report or Mont- ford Report proposed:
1. Legislative Council will be known as Legislative Assembly
2. Legislative Assembly would have 145 members from which 103
would be elected for 3 years, 33 were Muslims reserved seats.
3. Legislative Assembly would hold separate electorate for Muslims,
Hindus and Sikhs
4. The Council of State would have 60 members; 33 would be elected
5. A Council of Princes 108 member, no power a ‘talking shop’
6. Viceroy’s executive council was set up again with 6 members and
this time 3 Indians were included
7. Role of central administration was further restricted by the power
of Viceroy who could pass any law if he felt it was necessary for India’s safety. Executive
Council was made for only nominated members (though 3 were now to be Indians)
8. Extended voting rights? Only 2% could vote
9. Diarchy system introduced in provinces.

Diarchy System
● At provincial level a new system of diarchy was introduced. Under this system the
responsibilities were divided into two lists:
Reserved Powers Transferred Powers
Police Forest
Justice Public Health
Revenue Education
Press Public Welfare
● The Provincial Ministers got the transferred subjects. They were responsible to the
Financial Provincial Legislative Assembly and they were chosen by governors.
● Reserved powers were exercised by the governors.
● 5.5 Million out of 250 million people were given to the right to vote.
● Real powers still remained with the British, both in the central and provincial level.
● The viceroy could pass any law and had the authority to dismiss any provincial
power.
● Gandhi and Jinnah opposed Mont-Ford Reforms and declared the act inadequate,
disappointing and unsatisfactory.
● However, Jinnah asked the people to avoid violence.
Transferred Subjects
Ministers chosen by Legislative Councils by Viceroy himself. Viceroy may also dismiss the
provincial Legislative Council. British maintained their grip of power by ensuring Viceroy
have authority.
Indian Reaction:
They were bitterly disappointed because the outcome was not the much the expected
unexpected outcome!
Indian National Congress and Muslim League calling for self-rule were disappointed.
Congress condemned reforms as “Inadequate, unsatisfactory and disappointing”
Rowlatt Act, 1919

Background
This act was passed when the protest over the Mont-Ford reforms started and other
minorities began to demand separate electorate. In December 1917, a committee was
formed under Justice Rowlatt to investigate revolutionary activity in India.
The committee presented its report in 1918 and declared that yes there was revolutionary
activity in India.
Proposal
The Défense of India Act was passed allowing:

1. Arrest without warrant

2. Detention without bail
3. Provincial government ordering people where to live.
Reaction
M.A Jinnah resigned from the Imperial Legislative Council in protest
Gandhi called strikes against the proposals.
Strikes/ demonstrations caused British to forbid public meeting … the unrest continued…
10 April: two banks were attacked in the city of Amritsar. 5 Europeans were killed.
General Dyer The British commander was determined to restore order. Banned all public
meetings.
Amritsar Massacre
On 13th April 1919,a crowd of about 20,000 in number turned up for a peaceful protest at
Jallianwala Bagh. The park surrounded by 5 feet high wall with narrow entrance and exit.
But the troops of General Dyre, without warning shot 1600 rounds killing about 379 people
including 41 children and making1200 injured. It made sure that people of Punjab
understood they should obey Dyer.
The British were determined to keep a firm hold on India. General Dyre action was
condemned but his standing in British media was enhanced which offended Indians and
resulted in further violence.
Who was General Dyre?
In early 1919, following the demonstrations in Amritsar General Dyre was a British
commander, moved his troops there to restore the law and order situation.
On April13th, he ordered his troops to fire at those unarmed and peaceful people in the
Jalianwalla bagh.
The troops opened fire and killed 379 people including 41 children and making1200 injured.
It made sure that people of Punjab understood they should obey Dyer.
The British were determined to keep a firm hold on India. General Dyre action was
condemned but his standing in British media was enhanced which offended Indians and
resulted in further violence.

SOURCE A
The Defence of India Act 1915
The Defence of India Act came into force in 1915 for the duration of the First World War and
for six months after it. The Act gave the Governor General special powers to ensure the
safety of the people and the defence of the British Empire in India. Public servants were
given powers to uphold the law. Violation of the Act was punishable with fines, prison
sentences of up to seven years and death for offences considered to be terrorism or plotting
against the British Government.
From a website on the history of Indi
SOURCE B
An entrance to JallianwalaBagh, Amritsar
A photograph of an entrance to JallianwalaBagh, which is largely unchanged since 1919
Non –Cooperation Movement

March 1920 many Indians joined Gandhi’s Non-Cooperation Movement. British clothes were
burned in huge amount. Teachers and students set up their own institutes. Lawyers gave up
their practices. 1st elections were rejected. Widespread opposition for the British. Jails were
filled with over 30,000 political prisoners. When Non-Cooperation splits over into violence
Gandhi decided to call of the campaign (February 1922).
Growth of Communalism:
Post-war event brought Hindu and Muslim closer together. The ending of Non-Cooperation
Movement led to serious communal rioting across India. Hindu fundamentalism gained
more influence.

What was Arya Samaj?

• Founded in 1877:
• founder DayanandSaraswati
• strong holdings in western/northern India
• Purify Hinduism from impure practices
• Hoped: convert Hindus back to Hinduism who had converted into Christians
• Powerful agent to spread education/ social reforms
• Together with Hindu Mahasabha: militant activities in 1924
• Pundit Mohan Malaviya:
• Upcoming Congressman
• 1932 brought a number of the Punjab members (involved in politics)
• Into a political party Hindu Mahasabha
• 1923, elections were won under the name of ‘Swaraj Party’Hindu Mahasabha:
• Condemned the partition in 1947wanted India to be a HinduState
• Believed that Gandhi’s tolerance is a threat to Hindu purity.
Q: The Morley Minto reforms were most important of the attempts by the Muslims,
Hindus or the British government in seeking a solution to the problems in the
subcontinent between 1906 and 1920. Do you agree? Give reason for your answer. [14]
In 1906, Lord Morley was the Secretary of state for Indian affairs, announced in the British
parliament, the new reforms for India, in which the locals were to be given more power in
Legislative affairs. The act of 1909 is commonly known as the Morley-Minto reforms in
which: The number of members of Legislative council at the centre was increased from 16 to
60. The number of the members of the provincial legislatives was also increased. It was fixed
50 in the provinces of Bengal, Madras and Bombay (larger provinces) and for the rest of
provinces it was 30(smaller provinces). Rights of separate electorate were given to Muslims.
At the centre, official members were to be form the majority but in provinces non-official
members would be in majority.
The Morley Minto reforms became law in 1909 as the Indian council’s act. The importance
of the councils which were enlarged was to ensure that Indian Legislatures were given a
chance to express their opinions. The British also accepted the right of Muslims to have a
separate electorate while Congress criticized it because they wanted self-rule and they also
did not accept the right of Muslim separate electorate. These reforms seem important but
not that much. However, there were other attempts to solve the problems in the
subcontinent during these years.
Moreover, in 1913 a new group of Muslim leaders under the leadership of Mr. Jinnah
entered the folds of Muslim League. The Muslim League changed its major objectives and
joined hands with congress. As a result of hard work of Muhammad Ali Jinnah both Muslim
League and Congress met for the annual session of Bombay in December 1915. The leaders
of both parties decided that they should cooperate with each other to bring the British
government to accept their demands therefore in 1916 Muslim League and Congress held
session at Luck now and draw a Pact known as Luck now Pact in which they reached to an
agreement and it was gauntly forward for Muslim hope. Obviously there had to be
compromise on both sides. The most important concession came when Congress agreed
with the Muslim League that there should be separate electorate for each group. The All-

India legislature that they called for it was agreed that Muslim would have 1/3rd of the
seats and weightage to the minorities of the provinces were also agreed upon. Jinnah hoped
that this agreement would lead to a united Indian nation. Both Congress and Muslim league
hoped that the British would accept their joint call for self-government.
Apart from this, the British simply could not ignore the growing demand for self-
government. Even during the war years, the unity of Muslim League and Congress could not
be dismissed. They had to respond to the Luck now Pact, so in 1918 Edwin Montague
secretary of state for India and lord Chelmsford Viceroy of India, put forward plans which
became the Government of India act 1919 also known as Montage-Chelmsford reforms in
which greater association of Indian in all branches of government were given. Greater
provincial power was given along with the responsible government for the induction of
Indians in the commission ranks; through these reforms they also introduced the diarchal
system in which there was to be a division of power between the governors. The
executive and provincial legislatures and the final decision were with the governor
general. These reforms disappointed Muslim League and Congress party as they had hoped
for more substantial confession. Through these reforms the most infamous Rowlett Act was
also passed which increased the resentment of the political parties by including the right of
arrest without warrant, and detention without bail. It also caused uproar in India and
Muslim league and INC rejected it.
In my opinion, Luck now Pact of 1916 was only seen as the beacon for hope for both Hindus
and Muslims unity between the years 1914 to 1920, whereas the British reforms in this
period 1906 to 1920 were just another try to rule the subcontinent and were never been
implemented.
Why India was not granted self-rule by Britain in 1919?
It was believed that Britain’s standing as a world power would be weakened if it gave in to
India demands.
Strategically India was important for the British Navy and British influence in the region
therefore the British were reluctant to give in to Indian demands and there were many
thousands of British people living in India who could not be abandoned.
The British government did not want to lose these businessmen, missionaries and civil
servants.
The British had failed to reward Indian support during the war with any real promise to
move to self-government.
British responded to protest by repressive measures like the Rowlatt Act 1919.
All of this was resulted into the increase protest and created law and order situation.
The violence from both sides increased to such extent that the worst incident at Amritsar
enraged Indians and the violence and agitation that lasted for the next 28 years would have
been avoided.
The British were quite confident to crush this opposition with certain tactful measures.

Khilafat Movement 1919-1924

• World War 1 ended in 1918and the British decided to break the Ottoman Empire.
Ottoman Empire held great importance to Muslims in India and so they wanted to
protect it and save the Khalifa.
• Because the Holy places of Muslims were in the Ottoman Empire so there was a great
threat that
• British might harm Holy places of Muslims.
Background and Establishment
At the beginning of WW1 (1914) seat of Khilafat was held by Turkey (Ottoman Empire). In the
First World War, the Turks had fought on the side of the Germany and Austria against Britain,
France and Russia. British wanted Indian Muslims to fight in the war against the Turks, but they
knew that British would respect the rights of the Khalifa and Turkish Empire would be
maintained. As a result of this promise thousands of Muslims joined the British Army.
Turkish side was defeated at the end of the war. Muslims all over the world were concerned
with how Turkey would be treated. Istanbul had been the home of Caliphate and the Turkish
Sultan was recognized as the Khalifa (caliph). The Allies hoped to destroy the Ottoman Empire
by encouraging, Turkey to become a nation rather than an empire. The treaty Of Versailles set
out to divide Germany into two parts.
Muslims were in Encouraged to stop British from treating turkey same as Germany and Austria.
There were many peaceful demonstrations and boycott.
KHILAFAT COMMITTEE
A “Khilafat Committee” was set up in 1919 to conduct and to organize the Khilafat Movement
with MaulanaShaukat Ali as its General Secretary. Congress also supported this movement
under Abdul Kalam Azad. This movement was launched to pressurize the British into keeping
their promises.
In Nov, 1919 the 1st Khilafat Conference was held in Delhi. Gandhi was also present at the
Conference. A resolution was also passed asking the Muslims as religious duty to adopt the
policy of non-cooperation with the British.
In December 1919 the 2nd Khilafat Conference was held in Amritsar. At the same time both
Congress and Muslims League were also meeting the city. It was agreed that all three
organizations should work together to oppose plans to dismember the Turkish Empire.
Khilafat Delegation: The Khilafat delegation left for England in March 1919 under the leadership
of Maulana Mohammed Ali Johar and met the Prime Minister Lloyd George. The Prime minster
refused to accept any arguments extended by the Khilafat Delegation and it failed without
achieving its purpose.
In 1920, The Treaty of Sevres was announced. The treaty indicated that Ottoman Empire
was to be split up. Arabia will be independent and Turkey’s other possessions in the Middle
East were placed under the League of Nations are allocated to British and France (non-
Muslim states). Turkish land was to be given to Greece so that Turkey’s only possession in
Europe was a small area around Istanbul.

The Turkish rebelled against this treaty of Sevres, so The Treaty of Lausanne replaced it in
1923. Some if the land was gained, but Turkey never regained the control of Muslim
territories in Middle East.
Non-Cooperation Policy
In August 1920 a full-scale Non-Cooperation Movement was launched in with the collaboration
with Gandhi. Gandhi came forward with their full support for the movement. Indians were
asked to give up Government services, renounce titles and boycott courts of law and British
goods, refuse to volunteer to join armed forces and withdraw from schools and colleges. People
even refused to stand for elections. Gandhi assured the people that if this movement would be
in a united, disciplined and non-violent fashion, they would attain “Swaraj or Self-Rule” within a
year. The Khilafat and Non-Cooperation Movement took the shape of mass movement. This was
the most serious political threat that the British faced after the War of independence 1857.
Hindu-Muslim unity was at its height. The congress cleverly decided to use Muslim agitation to
press the British for the further concession on self-rule and to show the Muslims that the Hindu-
Muslims unity was beneficial. Quaid-e-Azam was not in favor of Gandhi’s non-cooperation
program because he thought that it might be violent, so he resigned from Congress in 1920.
Prince Wales visited Bombay in 1921 and witnessed nationwide strikes and anti-British riots
which led to 53 people being killed. There were 30,000 political prisoners at the end of 1921
REASONS OF FAILURE
Arrest of Leaders, 1921
On 08th July 1921 the All-India Khilafat Movement met for third (and final time). It passed a
series of resolutions as Muslims should not attend British schools, serve in the police on
army or offering from of cooperation to the British.
It offended the British and Khilafat leaders were arrested. As a result, both all Ali brother
were imprisoned.
Frontline leaders like Gandhi, Maulana AbulKalam Azad, Maulana Shaukat Ali and Maulana
Johar Ali were arrested.
This made the organization less effective as it had no leader.
Hijrat Movement 1920
It was a by-product of Khilafat Movement. In 1920 Abdul Kalam Azad and Maulana Abdul
Bari gave a call for Hijrat Movement and urged the Muslims to migrate to a place where
they can freely practice their religion.
They called India as ‘Dar-ul-Harb’.
In August 1920,nearly 18000-20000 Muslims mostly from Sindh, NWFP and Punjab after
selling their land and properties, migrated to Afghanistan.
It was a long and difficult journey and emigrants were told to be welcomed by Afghan
government. Fertile land would be available for the cultivation of crops.
The Afghan Government welcomed them initially but afterwards refused to accept them.
Many people perished in the way and those who returned back to India to find them
homeless and doomed forever.

As a result of this all Muslims became backward in all fields of life. This migration to
Afghanistan is known as the, “Hijrat Movement” in the history of India. It was economic
misery. They became homeless, jobless and even penniless.
It proved damaging to the Khilafat Movement
Chaura-Chauri Incident 1922
The non-cooperation movement was leading to violence and losing its momentum.
In Feb. 1922 at Chaura-Chauri in a village near UP a trouble erupted between the police and
the demonstrating procession. The hostile and angry mob set fire to the police station
where 21 policemen were burnt alive.
Gandhi had reservation about disturbances in Mdras,Calcutta and Bombay and he decided
that India was not ready for mass campaign.
Gandhi was so upset that he immediately and unilaterally called off non- cooperation
movement doing great deal of damage to the entire Khilafat Movement. Gandhi was then
arrested by the British and he was sentenced to six years of imprisonment, and as aresult
Muslim-Hindu unity weakened.
Mopla Rebellion, 1921
A violent uprising by the deeply religious Moplas (Muslim peasants in south India) led to
deaths of a few thousand Hindus.
The Moplas anger was directed against Hindus landlords as well the British at Tarur nearly
10,000 Moplas destroyed the possessions and seized arms and ammunition. Hindu property
was destroyed including temples.
In the end, British Troops suppressed the uprising and more than 4000 Moplas were killed.
The violence divided Muslims and Hindus.
Abolishment of Caliphate, 1924
The Caliphate and the people of Turkey had no interest in the politics of India, and Mr
Jinnah and Iqbal did not support the movement.
In 1922 the sultan was deprived of political power. Two year later, the new leader, Kemal
Attaturk abolished the Khilafat and exiled Khalifa, Muhammad VI. It made so different what
Indian Muslim or British politicians wanted.
The Turks themselves had abolished the Khilafat-consequently the Khilafat Movement in
India also came to an end.
Other Reasons
• Khilafat Movement was based on religious sentiments and resentment against the
British. The Muslims were not a position to influence the politics in Turkey. Therfore, the
movement came to an end without achieving anything.
• The fate of Khalifa was a matter of concern for the members of the movement instead
of western powers or Turkey.
• Hindus and Muslims, for the first time cooperated together for a movement. Howevers,
it was the Hindus who wanted self-rule. It strengthened anti-British feelings.

End of Khilafat Movement

⮚ Gandhi called of his support which weakened Hindu-Muslims Unity
⮚ 1922, Sultan was deprived of powers
⮚ 1924, Kamal Atta Turk became the new Khalifa, he exiled Muhammad IV (last
Sultan). He also abolished the Khilafat. It no longer matters what Indian Muslims or
British wanted.
Why did khilafat movement fail?
● The non-violence, non-cooperative movement turned into violence. After the
Chaura- Chauri incident in Feb 1922, Gandhi called of his support
● Gandhi and other Muslims leaders of the movement were arrested in 1922 with the
arrest of leaders the movement lost its momentum.
● Although the Khilafat Movement was the first movement in which Hindus and
Muslims worked together, their unity was probably always doomed to failure. The
Hindu aim for self-rule was not really an objective of the Muslims and Hindus were
prepared to support the Muslims in protecting their religious right only as long as it
helped move India towards the self-rule.
● Hijrat Movement at critical stage was another blow for Muslims.
● on 3rd March 1924 the final and deadly blow was struck at the Khilafat movement by
Mustafa Kamal Ata Turk Pasha who exiled Khalifa, Muhammad VI and abolished
Khilafat and established nationalist government of Turkey
Result of the Khilafat Movement
• Hindus and Muslims were united against British rule.
• Muslims realized their political power and independency to advocate for their
demands.
• Muslims gave up jobs and students had forsaken their studies. The Hijrat Movement
was a tragedy and the emigrants were in a helpless position.
SIMON COMMISSION 1927

● The Government of India Act 1919 stated that the commission had to be set up after 10
years to review the reforms.
● The British conservative Government feared that it might lose to the Labour Party in
elections of 1929.
● The Labour Government might make too many concessions to the Indians.
● So, the conservative Government decided to bring the date two years earlier.
● The commission consisted of 7 members under leadership / chairmanship of Sir John
Simon to consider the situation of India.
● There was no Indian in the commission.

● Its membership had been selected to oppose self-government

● All parties considered it an insult of Indians and rejected it.
● INC in its Madras session decided to boycott the commission and arrange mass
demonstration.
● A common slogan throughout India was “Simon go back”
● Congress decided to boycott the commission and demonstrated massively.
● They faced regular protests and demands to go back to Britain.
● Quaid-e-Azam said that “JallianwalaBagh was a physical butchery of Indians and Simon
commission of their soul”
● Despite the boycott, the Simon Commission reported in 1930.
Salient Features
● Federal system with more power to provinces
● Legislative council introduced for NWFP but no government
● Diarchy was abolished at provincial level and introduced to Central level
● Separate electorates for Muslims
● Governors to choose ministers of parties, having majority support
● Provincial Prime Ministers could rule independently
● No changes in the central executive council. Instead, council of greater India would be
set up where representatives from individual provinces would come together to discuss
matters of national importance.
What was the Simon commission report?
• The conservative government sent commission of seven members headed by Sir John
Simon in 1927.
• The Simon commission prepared a report against the will of the Indians.
• It recommended a federal govt. for India, abolition of Diarchy and separate electorates
for Muslims but no 1/3rd Muslim seats in the central legislative assembly.
• It also opposed making Sindh and NWFP as provinces.
Expected Questions& Answers:
Q: Explain the reasons for the establishment of the Muslim League in 1906. [7]
Nov.2001, Q.3 b
Q: Why was the Muslim League founded in 1906? [7] June 2003, Q.2 b
Q: why was the Muslims League founded in 1906? [7] June 2005, Q.2 b
Q: why was the Simla delegation of 1906 an important turning for the Muslims of the sub-
continent? [7] Nov.2006 Q.2 b

Q: Why was the Muslim League established in 1906? [7] June 2009, Q.3 b
Q: The Muslim League was established in 1906 because the Hindus had their own political
party. Do you agree? Give reasons for your answer. [14] June 2010, Q.2 c
Q: why was the Simla delegation of 1906 an important event for the Muslims of the sub-
continent? [7] Nov. 2010 Q.3 b
Q: why was M.L established in 1906? [7] June 2012 Q.2 b
DELHI PROPOSALS (1927)
On March 30, 1927 Mohammad Ali Jinnah called a conference of all Muslims leaders in Delhi
to discuss the future of constitutional reforms and separate electorates. These demands
were known as the Delhi Proposals and were:
• Sindh should be separated from Bombay with full provincial status and all previous
British reforms should be applied to the Frontier Province and Baluchistan.
• In Punjab and Bengal, the allocated fewer seats should be corrected.
• Muslims should be given one-third of the seats in the central legislature through joint
electorates
• Mr. Jinnah claimed that if these proposals are accepted, only then the Muslims league
would be prepared to give up separate electorates.
NEHRU REPORT 1928
• INC decided to boycott Simon Commission and called for mass demonstration.
• Lord Birkenhead challenged the Indians to produce a unanimous constitution.
• In May 1928, Congress, ML, Liberals, Hindu Mahasabha & Sikh league met in all party
conference to draft constitution which Indian people thought to govern their country
and finally Nehru report was approved in September 1928.
• Motilal Nehru headed this committee. There were nine other members in this
committee including two Muslims, Syed Ali Imam and Shoaib Qureshi.
The following were the recommendations advanced by the Nehru Report:

1. India should be given the status of a dominion.
2. There should be federal form of government in India.
3. India should have a parliamentary form of government.
4. There should be bi-cameral legislature.
5. There should be no separate electorate for any community.
6. System of weightage for minorities should be rejected.
7. Reservation of Muslim seats should not be maintained.
8. Muslims should enjoy one-fourth representation in the Central Legislature.
9. Sindh should be separated from Bombay.
10. The N. W. F. P. should be given full provincial status.
11. Hindi should be made the official language of India.
12. Equal rights for men and women

Rejection of Nehru Report

• The Nehru report did not fully address the concerns and aspirations of all the parties
involved.
• Muslims felt betrayed as per the agreement in the Lucknow Pact of 1916. They felt as if
their views were ignored.
• In 1929, the all India Muslim Conference rejected the report as it deprived Muslims of
their rights.
• Hindus demanded a unitary system of government while Muslims desired for a federal
system.
• Mr Jinnah proposed four important changes to make the proposals acceptable to the
Muslims:
1. 1/3rd seats for Muslims in the Central Parliament
2. Provincial autonomy should be granted
3. In Punjab and Bengal , seats should be reserved for Muslims on the basis of
population.
4. Sindh and NWFP should be given full provincial status
This was rejected by the committee. As per Mr Jinnah it was “the parting of ways”
and was an important step towards the eventual partition of India
Muslims realized that they could not trust the Hindus and the Congress. In response
to the Nehru Report, Jinnah produced his 14 points.
Why was Nehru Report rejected by Muslim League?
The recommendations of the Nehru Report were totally against the interests of the Muslim
community. It was an attempt to serve Hindu predominance over Muslims. The Nehru
Committee's greatest blow was the rejection of separate electorates. If the report had taken
into account the Delhi Proposals, the Muslims might have accepted it. But the Nehru
Committee did not consider the Delhi Proposals at all while formulating their report.
The Muslims were asking for one-third representation in the centre while Nehru Committee
gave them only one-fourth representation. It is true that two demands of Muslims were
considered in the Nehru Report but both of them incomplete. It was said that Sindh should
be separated from Bombay but the condition of self-economy was also put forward. It
demanded constitutional reforms in N. W. F. P. but Baluchistan was overlooked in the
report.
Of the two Muslim members of the Nehru Committee, Syed Ali Imam could attend only one
meeting due to his illness and Shoaib Qureshi did not endorse views of the Committee on
the issue of Muslim representation in legislature. Thus, the Nehru Report was nothing else
than a Congress document and thus totally opposed by Muslims of the Sub-continent. The
Hindus under Congress threatened the government with a disobedience movement if the
Nehru report was not implemented into the Act by December 31, 1929.
This Hindu attitude proved to be a milestone in the freedom movement of the Muslims. It
also proved to be a turning point in the life of Muhammad Ali Jinnah. After reading the
Nehru Report, Jinnah announced a 'parting of the ways'. The Nehru Report reflected the
inner prejudice and narrow-minded approach of the Hindus.

Why did Mr.Jinnah produce his 14 points?

The fourteen points of Mr. Jinnah were presented at the annual session of Muslim League at
Delhi in March 1929.the 14 points were put forward in answer to Nehru Report which was
given in 1928.
• Although Nehru Report had been drawn up by the All-Party Conference, many Muslims
felt that they were being asked to make the too many sacrifices.
• Congress went back on the concessions it had made in the Lucknow Pact, 1916.
• The Nehru report suggested: 1.unitary government for India 2.joint electorates 3.Hindi
as national language which were totally against the rights of the Muslims.
Mr. Jinnah suggested some amendments in the Nehru Report to guarantee
• 1/3 seats in central Assembly for Muslims
• In Punjab and Bengal, there should be Muslim seats on the basis of population for at
least ten years.
• Residuary powers should rest with the provinces not with the central government.
NWFP and SINDH should be given full provincial status but these amendments were also
rejected.
• Jinnah described this “Paring of ways”.
• It was apparent that any Hindu – Muslim corporation local now come to an end.
• Congress and Muslim League continued to campaign against the British Plans.
• 14 points were given and protect the rights of the Muslims.
• The demand of separate electrocute, establishment of Sindh province, giving proper
status to NWFP and Balochistan were important steps towards giving proper unity to the
Muslim Nation.
• Nehru Report had created great deal of confusion in the Muslims who started thinking
seriously for separate homeland.
• Jinnah thought that it was the right time to secure the future of the muslims because
congress was pissing upon the Nehru report.
• The 14 points were their eventual destination and objective. The 14 points set out the
demand of any future negotiations with either congress or the British government.
• Jinnah 14 points clearly reflected the demand sentiments and aspiration of the Muslims.
• Later, these 14 points were given importance in Government of India act 1935.
14 points of Mr.Jinnah 1929
1. The form of the future constitution should be federal with the powers vested in the
provinces.
2. Autonomy shall be granted to all provinces.
3. Adequate and effective representation of minorities in every province.
4. In the Central Legislative, Muslim representation shall not be less than one-third.
5. Right of separate electorate for Muslims.
6. Any territorial distribution that might at any time be necessary shall not in any way affect
the Muslim majority in the Punjab, Bengal and the North West Frontier Province.
7. Full religious liberty.
8. No bill or any resolution shall be passed in any legislature if three-fourth of the members
of that community oppose such a bill.

9. Sindh should be separated from the Bombay presidency.

10. Reforms should be introduced in the North West Frontier Province and Baluchistan on
the same footing as in the other provinces.
11. Muslims should be given an adequate share, in all the services of the state.
12. Adequate safeguards for the protection of Muslim culture and for the protection and
promotion of Muslim education, language, religion, personal laws.
13. No cabinet, either central or provincial, should be formed without there being a
proportion of at least one-third Muslim ministers.
14. No change shall be made in the constitution by the Central Legislature without the
approval of Indian Federation.
Importance
• Mr. Jinnah presented his 14 points at the annual meeting of Muslim League in 1929.
• These 14 points were given to safeguard & protect the interest of Muslims.
• The demand of separate electorate, establishment of province of Sindh, giving proper
status to NWFP & Baluchistan were to be strengthen the Muslims majority areas & were
important steps towards giving proper identity to the Muslim nation.
• The Nehru report had created a great deal of confusion in the Muslims who started
thinking seriously for the attainment of a separate homeland for the Muslims.
• The 14 points showed the Muslims their eventual objective & destination.
Q: why did Jinnah produce his 14 points in 1929? [7] June 2005.Q.3 b
Q: was the introduction of Jinnah’s 14 points in 1929 the most important factor in the
development of the Pakistan Movement between 1928 & 1935? Give reasons for your
answer. [14] June 2006, Q. 3 c
Q: why did Jinnah produce his 14 points in 1929? [7] Nov.2007 Q.3 b
Q: The 14 points were M.Ali Jinnah’s greatest achievement in the years 1929 to 1947, do
you agree? Explain your answer. [14] June 2009, Q. 4 c
Q: Describe the Nehru Report. [4] June 2011, Q.4 a
Q: ‘Fourteen points by Jinnah were the greatest achievement of Mohammad Ali Jinnah
towards the Pakistan Movement’. Do you agree? Explain your answer. [14]
Fourteen points of Mohammed Ali Jinnah were one of his greatest achievements towards
the Pakistan Movement. Although there were other contributions towards Pakistan
movement as well, such as representation by Muslims in the Round Table Conferences
1930-32, negotiation with Gandhi in Gandhi-Jinnah talks 1944, attending the Simla
Conference 1945 and the Lahore Resolution but his 14 points set the negotiation agenda at
each of these events.
Jinnah gave his 14 points in opposition to the proposals made in the Nehru Report 1928. The
Fourteen Points were proposed as a constitutional reform plan to safeguard the political
rights of Muslims in a self-governing India in 1929. In these points he guaranteed Muslims
rights and also propagated the rights of other minorities as well. He stated that 1/3 of the
seats in central government should be given to Muslims. Sindh should be separated from
Bombay and no bill shall be passed if ¾ of the party disagreed etc. These 14 points were his

greatest achievement as they were made the basis of every negotiation made with British or
Hindus. They influenced the political thinking of the Muslims for the next two decades. In
fact, these points now formed the basis of Muslim demands.
Furthermore, Jinnah participated in the round table conferences (RTC’s) of 1930-32. He
represented Muslims in these conferences and also gave suggestions for the government of
India Act of 1935. The importance of Jinnah’s 14 points can be judged by the fact that these
points were presented in the Round Table Conference of 1930.In these conferences he tried
to safeguard minority rights, as proposed in his 14 points. Although very little was gained in
these RTC’s but Jinnah and other political leaders got experience of how to handle political
meetings to set out the demands of future negotiations with Congress and/or the British
Government linked to safeguarding the rights of Muslims as proposed in the 14 points.
However, he also achieved much more. After the 1937 elections, Jinnah set out to reform
the Muslim League at grass root level and, as a result, membership had grown significantly
by mid-1938. Without this growth, the League would have struggled to be recognised by the
British as a powerful player in Indian politics, and hence the fortunes of the Pakistan
Movement would have possibly failed to bear fruit when it did.
Jinnah’s negotiation with Gandhi placed forward Muslim rights. Gandhi proposed that they
both should unite to drag British out of India and then after the British had left, they will
think about partition. Jinnah rejected this proposal as he wanted to secure partition before
British left. Gandhi also stated that factors such as defence and foreign affairs should be
transferred to central government but Jinnah wanted them to remain in the hands of
provinces as he wanted to safeguard minority rights. In these talks Jinnah made Gandhi
realize that the two-nation theory is now legal. These talks also raised the status of Jinnah as
he negotiated with Gandhi very well. Jinnah made Gandhi and other Hindus realize the
importance of the two-nation theory and status of Muslims in regard to the Pakistan
movement, this further confirmed his point of parting of ways expressed in the 14 points.
Gandhi and Jinnah were now aware of each other’s choices and Muslims started working
significantly for a separated homeland.
Jinnah also rejected the Wavell Plan as it had no reference to formation of Pakistan. It called
for voting for the central government which Jinnah knew was unfair as Hindus were in
majority.
Jinnah used the Lahore Conference in 1940 to ensure that the Muslim League would only
accept a solution to the sub-continent which ensured partition. This was called the Pakistan
Resolution. He also opposed the proposals of the Cripps Mission that saw Dominion status
for the sub-continent. In doing so he helped ensure the British realised the need to protect
Muslim interests as suggested in these 14 points.
Conclusion
Based on this discussion it can be stated that what Jinnah achieved was from a vision
derived from his 14 points. The rest of the political struggle of Jinnah from 1929 onwards
was based on the terms of reference of his 14 points. Each event after 1929 helped in the
struggle for the freedom of Muslims whether it was the Muslim League winning every
Muslim seat of the Central Assembly; and getting 75 per cent of Muslims’ votes in the
provincial assemblies’ election or the British realizing what was the structure of self-rule in

India which is acceptable to the Muslims. The rest of the years leading up to the
independence in 1947 saw intense political struggle by Jinnah which were guided by his 14
points and therefore it can be stated that his 14 points were his greatest achievement.
Salt March 1930
It was part of the civil disobedience movement of Gandhi.
It was a 24 days march from Ahmadabad to seaside Dandi village .Gandhi covered a distance
of 241 miles.
The British government forbade the making of salt, except under license.
He wanted to break the law and it aroused enthusiasm among the Indians.
The march was not only an attack on the unfair salt laws but also an opportunity for Indians
to disregard all unfair laws and showed opposition to British rule in any way possible.
Iqbal’s Allahabad Address 1930:

Several Muslim leaders and thinkers having insight into the Muslim-Hindu situation
proposed the separation of Muslim India. Allama Muhammad Iqbal was a poet, philosopher
and thinker who had gained countrywide fame and recognition by 1930.
However, Allama Muhammad Iqbal gave the most important explanation of the inner
feelings of Muslim community in his presidential address to the All-India Muslim League at
Allahabad in 1930.
On one hand, the Hindus offered a tough opposition by proposing the Nehru Report as the
ultimate constitution for India. On the other, the British government in India had totally
ignored the Muslim demands in the Simon Commission report.
Allama Iqbal realized that the peculiar problems of the Muslims in North-West India could
only be understood by people belonging to this region and that in order to survive they
would have to chalk out their own line of action.
Allama Iqbal also explained that Islam was the major formative factor in the life history of
Indian Muslims. He defined the Muslims of India as a nation and suggested that there could
be no possibility of peace in the country unless and until they were recognized as a nation.
He claimed that the only way for the Muslims and Hindus to prosper in accordance with
their respective cultural values was under a federal system where Muslim majority units
were given the same privileges that were to be given to the Hindu majority units.
As a permanent solution to the Muslim-Hindu problem, Iqbal proposed that Punjab, North
West Frontier Province, Baluchistan and Sindh should be converted into one province. He
declared that the north-western part of the country was destined to unite as a self-
governed unit, within the British Empire or without it. This, he suggested, was the only way
to do away with communal riots and bring peace in the Sub-continent.
The greatest historical significance of Allama Iqbal's Allahabad address was that it cleared all
political confusion from the minds of the Muslims, thus enabling them to determine their
new destination.

The national spirit that Iqbal fused amongst the Muslims of India later on developed into the
ideological basis of Pakistan.
Q Why was Allama Iqbal asked to chair the Muslim League at Allahabad in 1930? [7] (N-17)
Ans: Personality of Iqbal
He was suitable, educated and was the best leader as Jinnah was not yet ready to accept
the Two Nation Theory. He was a famous Muslim poet of India. His poetry had awakened a
sense of nationhood among Muslims and he advised them to be active in making progress.
He was so respected by Muslims of India that he was asked to chair the Muslim League at
Allahabad.
Freedom from British rule
He was a well-respected, convincing leader. He had full confidence of the Muslims of India.
He was the first important Muslim leader to advocate (promote) the partition of India and
the making of a separate Muslim state independent from British rule. He was against British
rule over India because conquest (takeover) of weak nations by strong nations was against
Muslim beliefs. Due to his opposition of British rule, he was asked to chair Muslim League.
Organized Muslim League
He convinced many Muslims that the Muslim League should be organized into an effective
political party to challenge the domination (influence) of the Congress party. He views had
inspired (motivated) Muslims of India. He was successful in making Muslim League popular
in Punjab where there was large influence of Unionist party. Due to his struggle for Muslim
League, he was asked to chair Muslim League.
Why was Allama Iqbal important to the Pakistan Movement? [7]

Allama Iqbal is known as the architect of Pakistan because he was the first person to address
the partition of India and gave the idea of an independent Muslim state. During his
presidential address to Muslim League at Allahabad in 1930, he demanded for an
independent Muslim state in the north-west India. This idea of Iqbal became the policy of
Muslim League just after 10 years.
He was an active politician. He was a member of the Punjab Assembly and attended the
Round Table Conferences in London to defend the Muslim community in India. He made
significant contributions in making the Muslim League as a mass political party. He wrote
many poetry books, writing in Urdu and Persian. Through his poetry, he recalled the
Muslims their past glory. He kindled the candle of freedom and provoked their desire for
having a separate state. Furthermore, he instructed the Muslims to work hard in order to
improve their status in the society.
His work was around the Two-Nation Theory. He said that there were different races in
India, speaking different languages and practicing different religions. He, therefore, argued
that partition was necessary to preserve Islamic Faith in their culture.
Why was Iqbal asked to chair the Allahabd Address in 1930?
Dr.Allama Iqbalwas asked to chair Allaabad Address in 1930 because he was well respected,
authoritative figure and had the confidence of Muslim and he was the first important

Muslim leader to advocate the partition of India and the creation of separate Muslim state
in keeping with the Two Nation Theory.
He had therefore been called the father of ideology of Pakistan. He was opposed to British
control of India as the concept of Congress went against Muslim beliefs. This strengthened
his view of the creation of separate homeland independent of the British.
From an early age he was fervent nationalist but in Lahore became an active politician.
During the 1920s his experience of the failure of attempts to Hindu Muslim unity convinced
him that partition was the answer of all problems and miseries of the Muslims.
He served as the member of Punjab assembly and attended the Round Table Conferences
but his long lasting influence was in Muslim league.
He persuaded many Muslims that the Muslim league had to build an effective mass political
party to challenge the domination of the Congress.
It was the his policy which Mr.Jinnah adopted so successfully a few years later and the
Muslim league became a popular mass political party.
He had inspired and spoke for many in the Muslim league. He was an educated person and
the best leader at jinnah was not yet ready to accept the two nation theory. His views acted
as inspiration to many Muslims who were uncertain about how to defend their religion and
culture.
Iqbal gave them a clear cut objective as he set out goal for Muslims to work onward .Allama
Iqbal was also a source of inspiration for Muslim leaders.
In 1933 Chaudhry Rehmat Ali’s Pakistan scheme was built upon his ideas and this was also
to be the basis of Jinnah’s Pakistan Resolution in 1940.
His poetry was a source of inspiration for the Muslims of India.
Round Table conferences 1930-1932

Objective:
• The Simon Commission report was published in 1930.
• Indian community received Simon Commission report with great resentment.
• Congress started civil disobedience movement under Gandhi’s command, but Muslims
reserved their opinion.
• To formulate future constitution of India in the light of suggestions given by the Indian
Leaders.
• To discuss the Simon Commission Report and constitutional problems in India, 3 RTC
were held from 1930-1932.
• Quaid-e-Azam, Sir Agha Khan, Muhammad Ali Jauhur., Maulvi Fazl Haq and Sir
Muhammad Shafi participated in 1st RTC.
• Round Table Conference, (1930–32) is a series of three-session meetings called by the
British Government to consider India’s future constitution. The Conference came from a
review of the 1919 Government of India Act, undertaken by the Simon Commission in
1927, whose report was published in 1930. It took place in London.

• The labor government formed in 1929 under Ramsay MacDonald found the Simon
report insufficient. In response to Simon’s report, this led to a decision to have round
table conferences in London.
• Due to Gandhi’s Civil Disobedience campaign, a number of the Indian National Congress
members did not take part in this meeting. The results obtained from the 1st round
table meeting, however, were modest.
• The first session (Nov. 12, 1930–Jan. 19, 1931) had 73 delegates from all Indian states
and all parties except the National Indian Congress, which carried out a local campaign
of defiance against the Government. The key achievement was an emphasis on
parliamentarians and acknowledgment of the federal concept by all, even the princess
and on the status of sovereignty as the aim of constitutional creation.
• Mahatma Gandhi attended the second session (September – December 1931) as the
representative of the Congress. It failed to reach an agreement, either constitutionally or
on the representation of communities.
• The third session was shorter and less critical (Nov. 17–Dec. 24, 1932), with neither the
Congress nor the British Labor Party attending the session. The result of these
deliberations was the Government of India Act of 1935, which established provincial
autonomy, and a federal system that was never implemented.
Successes
• Federal system of government in India with division of power between center and the
provinces
• The princely states would join the Indianfederation if recognition of rights would be
guaranteed
• The British agreed that the responsible and representative government at provincial
level should be started and that power should also be shared with the provinces
• Sindh should be separated from Bombay
• Reforms should be introduced in NWFP
• Formation of the committees to settle the constitutional issues
Failure
• There was deadlock on federal system of government
• The communal questions also remained unsettled in the absence of INC
• Gandhi was arrested for Non-cooperation movement
Effects of the first-round table conference

• The First Round Table Conference lasted until 19 January 1931.
• Although several reform measures have been agreed upon, not much has been enacted,
and the Congress Party has carried out its civil disobedience. The Conference was
considered a disaster.
• The British Government recognized the significance and need of the Congress Party,
making some decisions on the political future of India.
Second Round Table conference (7 September 1931 to 1 December 1931).

• The Indian representative of first Round Table Conference urged Mr.Gandhi to stop non-
cooperation movement and attend next talks.

• Gandhi met Lord Irwin in February 1931.lord Irwin wanted to bring the congress to
discussions. Lord Irwin knew that without the participation of the super president of
Indian national congress, it would be futile effort to call second RTC.
• So Gandhi –Irwin Pact was signed in March 1931.all the prisoners would be released,
their properties would be returned and their cases would be withdrawn.
• In return Gandhi would call off his non-cooperation movement and attend second RTC
• Winston Churchill objected talking to one imprisoned to oppose the British
• The Second Round Table Conference was held in London, with the participation of
Gandhi and the Indian National Congress, from 7 September 1931 to 1 December 1931.
Participants in the second-round table conference

• British delegates from various political parties including the British Prime Minister
• James Ramsay Macdonald, minister.
• The princely Indian states embodied by Maharajas, kings, and divans.
• British Indians, with:
• National Indian Congress (INC)-Gandhi Mahatma, IyengarRanga swami, Madan
• Mohammed Malaviya
• Muslims — Md. Ali Jinnah, Muhammad Iqbal, Aga Khan III etc.
• Hindus – M R Jayakar, and so on.
• Depressed – Dr. B R Ambedkar
• Women – Naidu Sarojini, etc.
• Sikhs, Hindu Muslims, Parsis, Arabs, Anglo-Indians, Conservatives, Justice Party
• Industry, workers, peasants, the provinces of Burma, Sindh, and others.
Successes
• Abolition of Diarchy
• Sind, NWFP and Orissa should be made provinces with own governors
• Two committees were formed to discuss minority issues
Failure
• The session began on 7 September 1931. The biggest difference between the first
Conference and the second one was that the INC participated in the second one. It was
one of the Gandhi-Irwin Treaty results.
• Another distinction was that the British PM Macdonald led not a Labor government, but
a national government, unlike the previous one. In Britain, the Labor Party had been
toppled two weeks earlier.
• The British agreed to award a community award for serving minorities in India by
providing for the minority groups with separate electorates. Gandhi opposed this.
• Gandhi and Ambedkar distinguished for the untouchables in this Conference on the
question of separate electorates. Gandhi rejected viewing the untouchables as being
different from the Hindu community. This issue was resolved to utilize the 1932 Poona
Agreement.
• Due to the numerous disagreements among the participants, the second-round table
conference was a failure. While the INC claimed to speak for the whole country, this
claim was contested by other participants and leaders from other parties.

Third Round Table conference 17th November 1932 -24th December 1932
• The Third Round Table Conference was held between 17 November 1932 and 24
December 1932
• There were only 46 delegates.
• Sir Agha Khan represented Muslim League
• There was a little chance of success and new viceroy lord Willington less prepared to
give concessions.
• Congress started non-cooperation movement again and Gandhi and Nehru were
arrested.
• INC and major princes boycotted the conference. Mr.Jinnah was not invited being called
a trouble maker and inflexible so he went to self-exile.
Successes
• It scrutinized all the reports and procedure of all 3 RTC.
• Set up a federal legislature in India consisted of elected representatives nominated by
princely states.
Failure
• Absence of major parties and leaders.
• Mr.Jinnah was not invited and Gandhi was imprisoned again.
Outcome
Not much has been achieved in this Conference. This Conference’s recommendations were
published in a 1933 White Paper and discussed later in the British Parliament. The
recommendations were analyzed, and based on them, the 1935 Government of India Act
was passed.
Conclusion
The three Round Table Conferences of 1930–32 were a series of conferences to draft India’s
constitution in the light of the Indian Leaders’ suggestions. In the 1919 India Act, new laws
were implemented in the 1929 Indian Act.
What was Gandhi-Irwin Pact 1931?
The Indian representative of first Round Table Conference urged Mr.Gandhi to stop non-
cooperation movement and attend next talks.
Gandhi met Lord Irwin in February 1931.lord Irwin wanted to bring the congress to
discussions. Lord Irwin knew that without the participation of the super president of Indian
national congress, it would be futile effort to call second RTC.
So Gandhi –Irwin Pact was signed in March 1931.all the prisoners would be released, their
properties would be returned and their cases would be withdrawn. In return Gandhi would
call off his non-cooperation movement and attend second RTC
Winston Churchill objected talking to one imprisoned to oppose the British.

The Second Round Table Conference was held in London, with the participation of Gandhi
and the Indian National Congress, from 7 September 1931 to 1 December 1931.
Round Table Conferences
According to Arthurian legend, Round Table was the meeting place of King Arthur’s
legendary knights. This is where the term originates. Later, Round table came to known as a
form of discussion and debate.
In such a form of discussion, members usually discuss on a pre- decided topic and every
person’s opinion matters equally. The term round itself denotes equality in terms of
participation and opinion.
This method of discussion was brought to India by the British during 1930 to 1932. During
that time, tensions were high. India wanted independence and was keen to achieve it.
British government was anxious about the nationalists that stuck to their principles.
It was during this time that the British decided to conduct the Round Table Conference.
They wanted to call the representatives of all the princely states, factions and parties to
discuss and reach a mutual understanding regarding the constitutional reforms in India.
Three Round Table Conferences were held in India during this period. But these
conferences were not very successful.
The first Round Table Conference was officially inaugurated by His Majesty George V. It was
held on November 12, 1930. It was not held in India, but in London. It was presided over by
the Prime Minister of Britain, Ramsay MacDonald.
Ramsay MacDonald was a good friend of Lord Irwin, the Viceroy of British India. In fact, the
Round Table Conference was decided to be conducted on the basis of the recommendations
of Muhammad Ali Jinnah, the leader of the Muslim League and the report of the Simon
Commission.
In the First Round Table Conference, there were delegates representing many different
factions that had a keen interest over the issue. Britain was represented by three political
parties. This was the Labour Party, the Conservative Party and the Liberal Party.
Each party had its own delegates. There were 16 British delegates in total. Prime Minister
Ramsay MacDonald was from the Labour Party. Indian delegates were divided in two. There
were 16 representatives from the Princely states. British India was represented by 58
delegated in total.
From India, there were delegates from Princely States such as Hyderabad, Baroda, Bhopal,
Bikaner, etc., from Indian political parties such as Muslim League, Justice Party, Depressed
Classes, etc. and from different communities such as Hindus, Anglo- Indians, Europeans,
Indian Christians, etc.
There were also representatives from various provinces such as Sindh, Burma, etc. Women
were also represented by Begum Jahanara Shahnawaz and Radha Bai Subbarayan.
However, India’s largest political party, that is, the Indian National Congress did not
participate. Most of its leaders were in jail after they participated in the famous Civil
Disobedience Movement which had earlier caused a lot of anxiety and troubles for the
functioning of the British Government in India. Others were following the decision of

the Indian National Congress which had decided to boycott the first Round Table
Conference.
Much advancement was made. All parties attending the meeting mutually accepted the idea
of an All- India Federation. Even the Princely States agreed to it as long as their own
independence and sovereignty was guaranteed. An agreement was also reached that
representative system of governance should be introduced at provincial level.
In this Conference, Dr. B. R. Ambedkar, representative of the Depressed Classes also put
forward the demand for separate electorates for the Untouchable castes. Despite these
advancements, since the largest party did not participate, the first Round Table Conference
can be considered as not successful.
After the First Round Table Conference, it was realised that the Conference would not be
successful without a representation from India’s largest and most influential political party,
the Indian National Congress. Thus, then the Viceroy Lord Irwin called Mahatma Gandhi for
a talk.
This talk resulted in an agreement between Mahatma Gandhi and Lord Irwin, which is
famously known as the Gandhi- Irwin Pact. Many prisoners belonging to the National
Movement were freed and the Civil Disobedience Movement was called off. Due to this
pact, Mahatma Gandhi attended the Second Round Table Conference as the only
representative of the Indian National Congress.
The Second Round Table Conference was held on September 7th, 1931. It was a less
auspicious event than the first Round Table Conference. Many Indian delegates were
present, including Mahatma Gandhi. During this Conference, many differences also
occurred. Indian National Congress was a huge party with its presence all over the country.
According to Mahatma Gandhi, Indian National Congress represented all of India, but other
delegates present at the Conference did not agree to such a claim. Gandhi also opposed
separate electorates for the Untouchables, or for any other faction. He did not agree that
the so-called Untouchables should be treated as minority.
Giving separate electorate to certain groups of the society would ultimately lead to adverse
effects. It will support the claim that a certain faction can only be understood, represented
and served by the member of that faction only. This will ultimately lead to inequality and
differences amongst the various communities.
This resulted in disagreement between Mahatma Gandhi and the other delegates who
supported separate electorates for the minorities. Amongst the supporters of separate
electorate, the main supported was the eminent scholar Dr. B. R. Ambedkar.
Dr. B. R. Ambedkar at that time was the leader and representative of the Depressed Classes.
Mahatma Gandhi did not want Untouchables to be separated from the Hindu majority. He
had the foresight to know that would lead to adverse effects on both communities and India
as a whole in the long run.
This difference of opinion resulted in a clash between Mahatma Gandhi and Dr. B. R.
Ambedkar. Thus, the Second Round Table Conference was an absolute failure. It created a
rift between the Indian National Congress and the minorities who felt that the Indian
National Congress, once in power, would not hesitate to supress them.

But, Gandhiji was resolute. He began to fast. Consequently, to resolve this matter, Dr. B. R.
Ambedkar and Mahatma Gandhi signed a pact in the Yerwada Central Jail in Poona on
September 24th, 1932.
SOURCE A
The Simon Commission 1927
The offer of the hand of friendship from Congress is more valuable than any concession
which the British Government is willing to make. This public meeting of the citizens of
Bombay firmly declares that the commission which has been announced is unacceptable to
the people of India as it denies the right of the people of India to participate on equal
terms in framing the future constitution of the country. It contains no Indian
representation. Indians throughout the country should have nothing to do with the
commission at any stage or in any form. We are not satisfied with the status of just being
petitioners to this commission.
From a speech made by Jinnah in Bombay in 1927, in reaction to the appointment of the
Simon Commission.
SOURCE B
The Round Table Conferences 1930–1932

SOURCE A
The Delhi Proposals 1927
Jinnah was keen to have Hindu-Muslim unity and was prepared to reject separate
electorates for this. As a result he made a number of proposals to Congress at a meeting in
Delhi in 1927. He wanted more Muslim-majority provinces to balance the number of
Hindu-majority ones represented in the central assembly. He proposed that Sindh be
separated from the Bombay Presidency and made into a full province. He wanted the
protection of Muslim minorities as well as other minorities in Punjab and Bengal. One third
of seats in the central legislature were to be set aside for Muslims and he wanted reserved
seats rather than separate electorates. Congress favourably received these proposals but
withdrew their support later in the year.
From Jinnah vs. Gandhi by Roderick Matthews
SOURCE B
The Simon Commission 1927
Section A
Answer the following question.
This question is about India 1927–1935.

1 Study the sources (Insert) carefully and then answer the questions which follow.
(a) According to Source A, what were Jinnah’s aims in his Delhi Proposals of 1927? [3]
(b) How does Source B help us to understand Indian concerns about the Simon
Commission of 1927? [5]
(c) Why was DrAllama Muhammad Iqbal asked to chair the Muslim League at Allahabad in
1930? [7]
(d) Which of the following was the most important in the development of the Pakistan
Movement?
(i) the Nehru Report, 1928
(ii) Jinnah’s 14 Points, 1929
(iii) the Government of India Act, 1935
Explain your answer with reference to all three of the above. [10]

Government India Act of 193

• On the suggestions of Round Table Conferences white paper was issued in 1933 and
efforts were started to make the constitution of India.
• A committee was setup under the chairmanship of Lord Linlithgow, the viceroy of India,
to consider the recommendations of the white paper.
• The report of the committee was published in 1934 that was contained in a bill of law.
The report along with the bill was passed in the British Parliament.
• After the Royal assent the Act was enforced in the country as Government of India Act
1935.
• The Government of India Act 1935 consisted of two parts. One part was central and the
other part was the provincial.
• The Act was also contained 14 parts and 10 schedules. The following were the salient
features of the Act:
 India would be a federation with two chamber parliament: upper house (Council of
State) and lower house (Indian Legislature Assembly).
 Upper house (Council of State) would be consisted of 260 members 104 from
princely states and 156 from British India and lower house (Indian Legislature
Assembly) would be consisted of 375 members, 125 from princely states and 250
from British India.
 The Council of State was the upper house that was a permanent body i.e. that it
could not be dissolved like the lower house of the Parliament. One-third members of
the upper house had to retire after every 3 years. The lower house of the Assembly,
the Indian Legislature Assembly, was not an independent body. The laws passed by
the Assembly could be Veto by Governor-General. The legislature had no control
over the legislature under this Act.
 The provinces were given more authority and powers and for the first time the
provinces were made separate entities.
 The system of Dyarchy was abolished in the provinces and introduced in the centre.
 Under the Act there were three lists of subjects. One was federal, 2nd was provincial
and the 3rd was concurrent list.
 The whole country was divided in to 11 provinces.(3 new provinces Sindh,NWFP and
Orissa)
 The Governor-General in the center and the Governors in the provinces were given
special rights and privileges. In case of emergency situation both Governor-General
and Governors enjoyed unlimited powers and their authority could not be
challenged in any institution.
 25%people were given the right to vote on property qualification basis.
 Women were also given the right to vote.

 There would be 35 million voters including 5million women voters.

 Under the Act the Secretary of State for India enjoyed the same powers that the
other ministers enjoyed under the Act. The Indian Council that was created to help
him was abolished under the Government of India Act 1935.
 It was the last major act before the British left.
 It was made the interim constitution of India and Pakistan with certain amendments.
Why was government of India act 1935 opposed from all sides?
• The Act of 1935 failed to win appreciation from various sectors.
• Both the Muslim League and the Indian National Congress expressed their dissatisfaction
over the Act.
• Hindu leader Madam Mohan greatly criticized this Act and PandatJawaharLal Nehru said
on the emergency rights of Governor-General and Governors that this Act provided
that,” this Act was like a machine that had strong brakes and no engine”.
• Muslim leader Muhammad Ali Jinnah said this,’it was simply, thoroughly rotten
fundamentally bad and totally unacceptable”.
• Princely states also resented at the loss of power.
Introduction
This legislation was the longest Act passed by the British Parliament after its domination
over India. It was the result of a very long process that started when the Simon Commission
was appointed to look into the matter which was not satisfied by the Indian politicians.
Dyarchy system that was introduced by the Government of India Act, 1919 (the “1919 Act”)
did not prove to be a satisfactory experiment by the British Parliament.
Indian politicians were frustrated at that time because they thought that the area they had
officially control over was still in the hands of the British officials with full control over it.
Because of this reason, these politicians wanted a check of India’s constitutional
arrangements and it could be fixed. So, to review this matter and to make changes this had
been given to the Simon Commission.
The report of the Simon Commission proposed to scrap the dyarchy system and instead of
that, ‘responsible government in the province’ was sought to be introduced. This report
brought us one step closer to the establishment of the Government of India Act, 1935 (the
“1935 Act”). The material derived from the 1935 Act not only came from the Simon
Commission Report but also different sources as well. These sources were the Third Round
Table Conference,[2] reports of the Joint Select Committee [3] and the White Paper of 1933.
Features
This Act gives many salient features out of which some has been considered as the major
ones and some as the minor ones. These salient features are given below:
1. This Act shows the dominance power of the British Parliament or its superiority.
2. This Act had proposed to establish an All-India Federation and this federation should
consist of provinces and Princely states considering both as one unit.

3. This Act introduced a system of Provincial Autonomy into the provinces in place of the
dyarchy system. This time dyarchy was not introduced at the state level it only
introduced at the central level.
4. A federal court was established after the recommendation of this Act. This court was
introduced after two years of the passing of this Act, i.e., 1937.[4]
5. This Act provides the recommendation for the establishment of the Reserve Bank of
India to control the regulation of currencies and credits of this country.
6. After the establishment of this Act, the Council of India that was established by the
Government of India Act, 1858 was abolished.
7. Muslims, Sikhs, and others except depressed classes were provided separate electorates
after the implementation of this Act.
8. This Act proposed the expansion of Universal Adult Franchise from 3% of the population
to 14% of the population.
9. This Act gave Governor the Critical emergency powers that were only enjoyed by him.
What was the white paper document?
Despite the failure of the round table conferences, in March 1933 the British government
announced its proposal for how India should be governed.These were published in a white
paper (a discussion document issued before a bill is presented to the British parliament) it
was finalized as the Government of India act 1935 and imposed on Indians.
What was the Government of India act 1935?
After discussing the summary of the three RTC’S in the British parliament, the Government
of India act 1935 was passed in August 1935.
It introduced a federal form of government for India with an upper house and council of
state and lower house legislative assembly
Diarchy was shifted to the center a greater degree of provincial autonomy was given.
Right of the vote was given to 25% of the Indians but the real powers were still with the
British.The viceroy could veto any law made by the provinces.
British announced its proposal for India in white paper in August 1935 the Government of
India act became law its main terms were that India was to be a federation including British
India and princely states.Diarchy was replaced by a degree of autonomy at provincial level
and it was introduced at central level. NWFP was given provincial status but emergency
powers were with viceroy.Three new provinces were added (Sindh, NWFP and Orissa).
It was sharply criticized by both the Muslim league and Indian National Congress
What was the importance of Government of India act 1935?
The act was an important point in the move towards independence.It provided the basis for
the negotiations which finally resulted in the British leaving India.
The parliamentary system had been set up in which the Indian people were to gain
increasing representation.
Independence was moving nearer and it gave an idea to Muslims for a struggle to achieve
Pakistan

It became the interim constitution for two new countries; India and Pakistan in 1947.
It was the last major legislation before the British left.
Why was Government of India act 1935 so important to the future of this subcontinent?
The Government of India Act 1935 was the last major legislation that the British government
passed before independence was granted.It was very important because federal form of
government and the kind of parliamentary system meant that British were pressurized to
grant India self-rule.
The provincial government were to a great extent self-governing units except for the
emergency powers of the governors and the viceroy the central assembly and the council of
state were greatly enlarged by including more Indians.A five time increase in the number of
the voters showed that more than 25% of total population of Indians including five million
women had their right to elect their own representative as compared to the previous
number of voters, though three fourth of the total population was still deprived of this
right.This increase was however strengthened by the creation of three new provinces Sindh,
the NWFP and Orissa Thus the increase in the number of the provinces was coupled with
the increased degree of the provincial autonomy.This way India was seen to be nearly
nearing independence.
This act laid the basis of the future negotiations between the Indians and the British and
thus paved the way for Indians eventually getting independence.
The princely states or Princess could decide to participate in the political affairs for the first
time.Most importantly the act was such a comprehensive and effective document that both
India and Pakistan would base their respective constitution on this document.
What was the outcome of the provincial election of 1937?
Muslim league won only 109 seats while the Indian national got absolute majority in 5
provinces and became the single largest party in 4 other provinces by getting 707 seats.
Muslim league realized that it had to overcome the image problem and reorganize itself for
the future elections.It decided to work more in the Muslim majority provinces as there was
no threat of Hindu domination in the Muslim majority provinces.The Indian National
Congress committed several atrocities against the Muslim by introducing the Warda
Scheme, compulsory singing of Band-e-Matram an anti-Muslim nationalistic song of Hindus
and showing disregard to the mosque and the congregational prayers.
It was a part of Indian National Congress rule 1937-39. Gandhi introduced it as a basic
education system and this scheme made Hindi the medium of education, removed any
religious education and made cotton spinning by hand a part of the school curriculum.In
some schools of CP (central provinces) Muslim students were required to bow before the
portrait of Gandhi in a worship manner. Even the Urdu language was undermined under this
policy, thus it became evident that even with legal safeguard Muslim could not trust the
Indian National Congress to protect their rights therefore it was one of the reasons of
hatred against the Indian National Congress rule.

Congress Rule 1937-39 was hated so much because of the band Mottram?
Indian National Congress introduced a number of anti-Muslim policies. Muslims hated
Indian National Congress rule so much that at the end of Indian National Congress rule they
celebrated the day of deliverance on 22nd December 1939.After taking charge in July 1937
Congress declared Band e Matram as the national anthem. This was a Bengali song
composed by Bancom Chatter Jee and it contained anti Muslim sentiments through which
Hindus were encouraged to expel Muslims from Hindustan.This was not a Congress policy
but the singing of the song was made compulsory before the start of official business every
day in the official assemblies.This greatly offended the Muslims who began to feel that were
being forced to become familiar with Hinduism.
A number of anti-Muslim measures were adopted which were collectively called the Indian
National Congress tyrannies. The Congress flag was given the status of national flag by
hoisting it together with the Union Jack (British flag) this was done to convey the message
that there were only two political powers in India British and Congress. Muslim felt that
Indian National Congress was bent upon ignoring the political importance of the Indian
Muslims. Muslims were forbidden to eat beef and received harsh punishments and
slaughtering of cows was prohibited. Muslims were not allowed to construct new mosque.
Hindus would play drum in front of the mosque during the deliverance of Azan and pigs
were pushed into the mosque when Muslims were praying.
Sometimes there were anti Muslim riots in which Muslims were attacked and their houses
and properties set on fire. Sometimes there were anti Muslim riots in which Muslims were
attacked and their houses and property set on fire they also feared that if they lodged
complaint against the Hindus the local administration would act in favour of Hindus. Viceroy
himself admitted many instances of continued oppressions in small ways. Muslim developed
a strong fear about their religious and cultural traditions in case of a Hindu dominated India.
In the Indian National Congress rule Indian National Congress ruled provinces Warda
scheme was implemented. It was an educational scheme based on Gandhi's views and
introduced into all educational institution under this teaching was to be in Hindi, spinning of
cotton by hand was made part of curriculum in all schools.Religious education was banned
for all students regardless of their religion they were expected to bow before the portrait of
Gandhi and worship manner.
Muslim saw these measures as an attempt to subvert their love for Islam as their religion
did not allow bowing before any image or portrait.A ban on Urdu and religious education
created insecurity among Muslims about their cultural identity.
It seems that the most important reason for hatred against the Indian National Congress
rule was the singing of Band e Matram because through this song a kind of brain washing
campaign was launched against Muslim.They were being prepared toadapt to Hindu
traditions otherwise their survivalin the independent India would be very difficult.

Lahore Resolution (1940)

1. Who passed the resolution of Lahore?
2. Whose demand was said to be first demanding Pakistan?
3. When was the name of country first coined?
4. Who coined the term Pakistan for the first time?
5. What is the background of Lahore resolution?
6. What are the principal clauses of Lahore Resolution?
7. What is the importance of Lahore Resolution?
The ‘Lahore Resolution’ (Urdu: Qarardadi Lahore, Bengali: LahorProstab) and later became
better known as the ‘Pakistan Resolution’.
The Resolution was passed at the annual session of the All-India Muslim League at its 1940
meeting (22-24 March) at Minto Park (now called Iqbal Park) for the creation of
‘Independent State’ of Muslims in British India.
The Resolution was written and prepared by Muhammad Zafarullah Khan and was
presented by Sher-e-Bangla A. K. Fazlul Huq, the Prime Minister of Bengal. This political
statement was adopted by the All-India Muslim League.
Organization
With the clarity of mind and backing of the Muslim community behind him, Quaid-i-Azam
called for the 27th annual session of the All-India Muslim League to be held from March 22
to 24, 1940 at Lahore. Sir Shah Nawaz Khan of Mamdot was made the head of the reception
committee and Main Bashir Ahmad was nominated as secretary of the session. Prominent
leaders including Chaudhry Khaliquzzam, Nawab Muhammad Ismail Khan, Nawab Bahadur
Yar Jang, A.K. Fazlul Haq, Sardar AbdurRab Nishtar, Abdullah Haroon, Qazi Muhammad Isa,
I.I. Chundrigar, Sardar Aurangzeb Khan, Khawaja Nazimuddin, Abdul Hashim and Malik
Barkat Ali, etc. attended the session.
On March 23, A.K. FazulHaq, the Chief Minister of Bengal, moved the historical Lahore
Resolution. The Resolution consisted of five paragraphs and each paragraph was only one
sentence long.
"No constitutional plan would be workable or acceptable to the Muslims unless

geographical contiguous units are demarcated into regions ……….and That the areas in
which the Muslims are numerically in majority as in the North-Western and Eastern zones of
India should be grouped to constitute independent states in which the units shall be
autonomous and sovereign".
Besides many others, the Resolution was seconded by Chaudhary Khaliquzzam from UP,
Maulana Zafar Ali Khan from Punjab, Sardar Aurangzeb from the N. W. F. P, Sir Abdullah
Haroon from Sindh, and Qazi Muhammad Esa from Baluchistan. Those who seconded the
resolution, in their speeches declared the occasion as a historic one. The Resolution was
eventually passed on the last day of the moot, i.e. March 24.
The Principal Clauses of the Lahore Resolution

a) Independent states to be formed with the Muslim majority regions in the North-
Western and Eastern India.
b) These independent states will be autonomous and sovereign.
c) Sufficient measures must be taken in the constitution to ensure the rights and
interests of the minority groups after discussing with them.
d) Powers of defence, foreign affairs, communication would be bestowed upon the

concerned subsidiary states.
Facts about Lahore Resolution
In the above-mentioned clauses, there is no mention of Pakistan. But, in that time,

Newspaper published Lahore Resolution as "the Pakistan resolution" therefore, it became
popular as the Pakistan resolution.
In the Lahore Resolution it was suggested to form states with the Muslim majority regions.
For this the Bengali Muslims dreamt of an ‘Independent Bengal state’
Importance of Lahore Resolution
• The Pakistan Resolution is a landmark in the history of Muslim India as it eventually decides
the future of the sub-continent.
• Muslims were convinced that their future as a nation was not secure in the united India and,
therefore decided to demand a separate homeland.
• A new stream in Indian politico-constitutional movement began to flow because of this
proposal.
• Mohammad Ali Jinnah began to identify the Muslims as a different nation
• The Muslims were convinced that there was no other solution of the Indian problems except
the creation of two separate and sovereign states of Hindustan and Pakistan.
• The acceptance of Lahore Resolution strengthened the Two-nation theory which was the
basis of Muslim struggle for independence. The demand for Pakistan was based on Muslim
nationalism which meant the Muslim cultural, religious and national freedom.
• The word and contents of the subcontinent was on theory that there were two major and
distinct nations in the subcontinent.
Detailed answer
The All-India Muslim League Resolution of March 1940, commonly known as the Pakistan
Resolution, is undoubtedly the most important event that changed the course of Indian
history and left deep marks on world history.
With the passage of this Resolution, the Muslims of the sub-continent changed their
demand from “Separate Electorates” to a “Separate State.” This Resolution rejected the
idea of a United India and the creation of an independent Muslim state was set as their
ultimate goal. It gave new energy and courage to the Muslims of the region who gathered
around Quaid-i-Azam from the platform of the Muslim League to struggle for their freedom.
The dynamic leadership of the Quaid and the commitment and devotion of the followers

made it possible for them to achieve an independent state within seven years of their
struggle, and that too when the odds were against them.
Muhammad Iqbal, the poet-philosopher in his famous Allahabad address made it clear that
Islam has its own social and economic system, and to implement it a political entity was
required. When Jinnah came back to India to reorganize Muslim League and to make it a
political party of the Muslim masses, he got the opportunity to interact with Iqbal. Iqbal
through his letters tried to persuade Jinnah that the only solution available was a separate
state for the Indian Muslims where they could spend their lives according to the teachings
of the Holy Quran and Sunnah of the Prophet (SAW). Though Jinnah was convinced by the
late 1930s, being a realist, he was not ready to announce the new plan until he was
confident that the vast majority of the Muslims were behind him. The overwhelming
support from the Muslim masses for his call to celebrate Day of Deliverance on December
22, 1939, was a vote of confidence given by the Muslim Community in the leadership of
Jinnah, whom they by then had started considering as their Quaid-i-Azam.
Khaksar Tragedy
Due to the Khaksar Tragedy that took place on March 19, Sir Sikandar Hayat and others tried
to persuade Jinnah to postpone the session but the Quaid was not ready to delay it. To
participate in the session, he reached Lahore by train on March 21. He went straight to
Mayo Hospital to see the wounded Khaksars. By doing so he managed to handle well the
issue of Khaksar disturbances. On his arrival, Jinnah told the print media that the All-India
Muslim League will make a historic decision in the upcoming session.
Quaid-i-Azam’s Address
The venue of the session was Minto Park near Badshahi Masjid and Lahore Fort. The
inaugural session was planned at around three in the afternoon on March 22. People
started coming in the morning and by the afternoon the park was jam-packed. According to
a rough estimate, around 100,000 attended the public meeting. At the beginning of the
session, the welcome address was presented by the Nawab of Mamdot. This was followed
by the historical speech of Quaid-i-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah.
The Quaid in his two hours presidential address in English narrated the events that took
place in the past few months and concluded,
“Hindus and the Muslims belong to two different religious philosophies, social customs
and literature. They neither inter-marry nor inter-dine together, and, indeed, they belong
to two different civilizations that are based mainly on conflicting ideas and conceptions.
Their concepts on life and of life are different. It is quite clear that Hindus and Muslims
derive their inspiration from different sources of history. They have different epics,
different heroes and different episodes. Very often the hero of one is a foe of the other,
and likewise, their victories and defeats overlap. To yoke together two such nations under
a single state, one as a numerical minority and the other as a majority, must lead to
growing discontent and final destruction of any fabric that may be so built up for the
government of such a state.” He further claimed, “Musselman’s are a nation according to
any definition of a nationhood. We wish our people to develop to the fullest spiritual,

cultural, economic, social and political life in a way that we think best and in consonance
with our own ideals and according to the genius of our people”.
During his speech, the Quaid quoted the letter written by Lala Lajpat Rai in 1924 to C.R. Das
in which he mentioned that the Hindus and the Muslims were two separate and distinct
nations that could never be merged into a single nation. When Malik Barkat Ali claimed that
Lala Lajpat Rai was a “Nationalist Hindu leader”, Quaid responded, “No Hindu can be a
nationalist. Every Hindu is a Hindu first and last.
The name Pakistan was not used in the resolution and the official name of the resolution
was Lahore Resolution. It was the Hindu newspapers including Partap, Bande Matram,
Milap, Tribune, etc., who ironically coined the name Pakistan Resolution.
However, the idea was appreciated by the Muslim masses and the Resolution is more
known as Pakistan Resolution. Secondly, the Government and the people of Pakistan
wrongly celebrate March 23 as a national day in Pakistan. The actual day when the
resolution was passed was March 24. It was only presented on March 23. Lastly, the word
“states” and not “state” was mentioned in the Resolution. It means that the authors of the
Resolution were foreseeing two separate states in the north-western and eastern zones of
India. But if one has a good look at the developments that followed, he or she would
conclude that either the word “states” was included as a mistake or the League leadership
soon had a second thought to their idea
Conclusion
The Resolution was passed on March 24. It laid down only the principles, with the details
left to be worked out at a future date. It was made a part of the All-India Muslim League's
constitution in 1941. It was on the basis of this resolution that in 1946 the Muslim League
decided to go for one state for the Muslims, instead of two.
Having passed the Pakistan Resolution, the Muslims of India changed their ultimate goal.
Instead of seeking alliance with the Hindu community, they set out on a path whose
destination was a separate homeland for the Muslims of India.
Cripps Mission 1942
After the Simon Mission of 1927, Cripps mission was sent to India to carry out constitutional
development in our country, headed by Sir Stafford Cripps in March 1942. The main motive
of this mission was to seek the cooperation of Indians in the British war efforts in World War
II. The government had already come up with constitutional acts of 1919, 1935, and the
Simon commission and now it was the turn of Cripps Mission to prove its efficiency.
Background:
At the beginning of World War II, Japan had emerged as a superpower and attacked the
colonies of the British in South East Asia. The British colonial territory of Malaya, Philippines,
Singapore, Hong Kong has been acquired by Japan and now they were heading towards
India. The British confidence was shaken with the fall of Singapore in 1942. Japan had also

acquired the Pearl Harbor Island of America. This political crisis pushed Britain to acquire
support from India to protect its Indian colony from Japanese threat.
In India, the leaders were divided on the opinion of India’s involvement in the war. it was
seen that some leaders agreed to support the British in the war with the hope of it being
reciprocated with independence after the war, but leaders like Mahatma Gandhi was not in
support of India’s joining hands with Britain in the war because he was aware of Britain
sincerity about India’s development.
Under the pressure of the USA, USSR and China, and others, Britain was compelled to
acquire the support of India in the war and for that reason, it sent Cripps Mission, headed
under Stafford’s Cripps to India.
Objective:
After the fall of Burma, the Japanese forces were on the border of India. The solution to this
Japanese threat was to persuade Indian leaders to support the British in their war efforts in
World War II. Therefore, Cripps Mission was sent to create a connection between political
London and the leaders of the independence movement in India.
During World War II, the Viceroy Lord Linlithgow had announced India’s involvement in the
war on the British side, even without asking India about it. This gesture of the British
angered the Indian and in reiteration of this, the congress resigned from the seats of 7
states. This created a vacuum and so Cripps mission main motive was to fill this political
vacuum.
n order to upgrade its own position and secure India’s cooperation in the war, the British
government was compelled to send Cripps mission to India.
One of the reasons for the British defeat in south Asia was that it was unable to obtain the
support of the citizens of that country. The Britishers did not want to repeat that same
mistake in India, and so they were incessantly making efforts to gain India’s support for the
war.
Proposals
• After the war ends, the Cripps mission proposed to provide dominion status to India.
That means that India would be in a transition phase between colonial and self-
government. keeping it aloof from the rule of self-government.
• It proposed to frame the Constituent Assembly, which would be authorized to frame
its own constitution and the members of which would be partly elected by the
provincial assemblies through proportional representation and partly nominated by
the princes. it also stated that the new constitution-making body would safeguard
the racial and religious minorities.
• It also provided the Indian provinces to either join the Indian territory or secede
from it and form its separate constitution and a separate union. Basically, it aimed to
break the Sovereignty and integrity of our country. and act as a blueprint of India’s
partition.

• Under this, defence power was kept under the British hands and the governor-
general powers would remain intact.
Congress Objection to Cripps Mission:
• In the 1939 congress session, the congress had declared self-government as its goal,
but the Cripps mission offered dominion status instead of the provision of complete
independence. This offer of the British did not fulfill congress’s dreams of self-
government.
• The Congress objected to the British plan of State representation by nominated
members and not by the elected representatives.
• The clause of the right to secede from the Indian union if desired was acting as a
blueprint of partition of India went against the principles of making a united India.
• The Mission lacked any clear-cut timeline of transfer of power from British to Indian
hands and also the supremacy of the governor-general would be retained was not
accepted by the congress.
Muslim League Objection to Cripps Mission:
• Muslim league objected to the idea of a single union of India. The plan did not talk
about the creation of a separate territory called Pakistan, as per the demand of the
Muslim league.
• The Muslim League did not like the British way of constituting a constituent
assembly for India to frame its own constitution.
• The Muslim League did not like the procedure stated by the British to join the Union
or secede from it. This, in no way catered to the demands of the Muslim League.
Reason for Failure:
• The mission failed to meet the demands of self-government of the Leaders. This
Mission also kept itself confined to the goal of Dominion status as stated in the
August Offer of 1940. For this reason, Gandhi Stated the Cripps Mission as a ‘Post
Dated cheque on a Crashing bank ‘.
• It put a question upon the unity of India by providing provinces with the right to
secede from the Union. This was the first step toward creating a separate territory
called Pakistan.
• Though it provided for the creation of constituent assembly and thereafter the
constitution of India, the member of the constituent assembly for not elected but
nominated. This created much resentment among the people of India.
• Though the Mission proposed to Transfer the powers to India, the actual date was
not mentioned and Indians could not trust the British of its promises made.
• It was seen that Indians were already aware of British Policies and attitude, it was
not in a mood to trust the British again with such a menial proposal, and that too at
a time when India was in a position of Japanese threat.
• The ‘take it or leave it ‘attitude of the British resulted in the deadlock of the mission.

The Cripps Mission, like the earlier movement was unsuccessful in its attempt. This attempt
failed to influence the Indians to its side and its voluntary withdrawal from India resulted in
the launch of the Quit India Movement. Therefore, Cripps Mission can be said as the
precursor of the Quit India Movement of Gandhiji in India.
Why did the Cripps Mission of 1942 fail? [7]
(Past Paper, November 2004: Q3/b)
Congress wanted immediate self-rule
Cripps proposals conceded complete independence at the end of the war. During the war,
Indian political leaders could join the Executive Council with control of all government
departments except the armed forces. Congress rejected the offer because it wanted
immediate power and independence. Gandhi described the proposals as “a post-dated
cheque on a bank that was failing.”
Congress didn’t want India’s disintegration
According to Cripps proposals, provinces could opt out of the Indian Union, which was
definitely not acceptable to Congress Nationalists. They considered this option a lethal blow
to Indian land. They could not see disintegration of Mother India, and therefore rejected the
Cripps Offer.
Jinnah wanted firm assurance
Cripps Mission conceded the right of self-determination to provincial units i.e. the provinces
were free to remain within India or opt out of Indian Union. Mr. Jinnah was pleased with
this clause because the provinces with Muslim majority could form their own federation i.e.
Pakistan. But there was another clause stating that constitution of free India would be
drawn up by the Indian political leaders. Jinnah feared that the constitution-making body
would be dominated by Hindus who will deny the rights of Muslims. He wanted solid
assurance for independent Pakistan, and therefore didn’t agree with the Cripps Mission of
1942.
Britain’s Crucial Position
Congress wanted to exploit Britain’s critical position. Many Congress leaders thought that
wartime was the best opportunity to pressurize the British for immediate withdrawal from
India. Therefore, instead of accepting Cripps Offer, they started the Quit India Movement on
massive scale, which was an attempt to drive the British out of India through protests and
demonstrations. If this strategy succeeds, Congress would deal with all other parties on its
own terms.
Quit India Movement 1942
• May 1942 Gandhi spoke at a congress meeting in Allahabad.

• He argued that if the British left India, there would no longer be a threat of a
Japanese invasion, so they should be persuaded to go by a non-violent protest.

• On 8 August 1942, the all-India Congress Committee passed its Quit India Resolution,
calling for an immediate withdrawal of the British.
• To support the campaign a mass struggle on nonviolent lines on the widest possible
scale.
• 60,000 people arrested included Gandhi, Nehru.
• Congress party was banned.
• ML didn’t approve Quit India campaign.
• Jinnah criticized the Quit India campaign as Blackmail, saying that Congress was
trying to exploit British problems to win advantages for it.
It is known as the India August Movement or August Kranti. • It was officially launched by
the Indian National Congress (INC) led by Mahatma Gandhi on 9 August 1942. • The
movement gave the slogans ‘Quit India’ or ‘Bharat Chordo’. Gandhi gave the slogan to the
people – ‘Do or die’. • In line with the Congress ideology, it was supposed to be a peaceful
non-violent movement aimed at urging the British to grant India independence.
The Quit India Resolution was passed by the Congress Working Committee on 8 August
1942 in Bombay. Gandhi was named the movement’s leader.
The resolution stated the provisions of the movement as:
1. An immediate end to British rule over India.

2. Declaration of the commitment of free India to defend itself against all kinds of
imperialism and fascism.
3. Formation of a provisional government of India after British withdrawal.
4. Sanctioning a civil disobedience movement against British rule.
THE GANDHI – JINNAH TALKS 1944:
• Gandhi was released from prison on medical grounds by the new viceroy, Lord
Wavell in May1944.
• Throughout 1944 Gandhi & Jinnah met at Jinnah’s house in Bombay.
• Gandhi wanted the League to support Congress in its struggle to remove the British
while Jinnah knew that he had to secure partition before British left.

• Gandhi wanted the central government to have control over key issues such as
defense& foreign policy, while Jinnah wanted these matters to be in the hands in the
provinces.
• Gandhi considered himself to be speaking for all India while Jinnah reminded him
that he was just the spokesman of Congress.
• Gandhi gave the impression that he didn’t support the Two Nation Theory, where as
this had now become official League policy.
Background
• Gandhi was released from jail by Lord Wavell on medical ground in 1944.
• Gandhi, through his letter, expressed his desire to meet Mr. Jinnah to discuss the
ongoing Hindu Muslim disputes.
• Jinnah agreed and 1st meeting was held at Jinnah’s Bombay House on 9th
September.
• This series of meeting continued till 23 September, 1944.
• 25 hours were spent in discussion and 21 letters were exchanged. (They met 13
times).
• The failure of the talks announced on 27th Sept, 1944.
Important Points
• Gandhi considered himself speaking for all of the Indians but Jinnah reminded him
that he was just the spokesman of Congress.
• Gandhi also said that Muslims were converted from Hinduism and they had no right
to call themselves as an independent ration. Jinnah stated that by any standard of
international law Muslims were a nation.
• Gandhi also stated that though he accepted Balochistan N.W.F.P and Sindh Muslim
provinces but Punjab, Bengal and Assam were also partially Muslim provinces. So,
they should be divided on communed lives. Jinnah firmly declared and stated all 6
provinces should come to Pakistan.
• Gandhi insisted on joint struggle to force British for independence after that the
partition of India might have settled. Jinnah knew that he had to secure the partition
before the British left why should the Congress agree to it once the British left?
• Gandhi wanted Central Government to have defence and foreign affairs but Jinnah
wanted these to be with the provinces.
• Gandhi gave the impression that he did not support two nation theory but it was the
official policy of the Muslim League.
Importance
• Importance of ML was realized and recognized as the sole representative party of

the Muslims.
• Jinnah also realized that he also got a chance to remove doubts about two nation
theory and of Pakistan.
• It is said that Jinnah had won half of the battle of Pakistan after Gandhi – Jinnah
talks.

Question No. 1: were the Gandhi Jinnah talks the most important factor during the 1940s
that led to the partition of the sub continent in 1947? Give reasons for your answer.
Nov.2005 Q. 4 c
• During the period of 1940s, there were many events in the sub-continent led
towards the partition and independence of the sub-continent and Gandhi Jinnah
talks remained one of the important factors in this progress. Gandhi Jinnah talks
were held in Sep. 1944 at Bombay. Mr. Gandhi’s main arguments were that All
Indians are one nation because Muslims are only converts. Therefore demand of
separate homeland was baseless. He believed that Congress & ML should cooperate
& achieve independence first. Then a referendum may be held in Muslim majority
provinces to find out if they wished to be separated. Punjab & Bengal will have to be
divided because there are non.-Muslim majority districts. Defense& Foreign offices
should be in control of a central authority.
• Mr. Jinnah didn’t agree & pressed upon an independent & sovereign Muslim state.
Therefore, the talks failed.
• On the other hand, Lahore resolution remained the most important factor for the
development of independence. Lahore Resolution of March 1940 clearly demanded
contiguous Muslim majority provinces in the north west & east of India should be
grouped together to form an independent Muslim state. Both the Hindus & the
British opposed the partition of the sub continent. But this resolution brought the
Muslims of India under one banner & Pakistan became the objective, ambition &
goal of the Muslim nation. The resolution increased the importance & popularity of
ML. it also greatly added to the credibility & importance of Mr. Jinnah in Indian
politics. ML became the true representative of the Muslims of India & Jinnah was the
sole spokesman. Surprisingly great support came from the Muslims of minority
provinces.
• The cabinet Mission plan in March 1946 to find a solution for handing over power in
India. After long negotiations the Mission gave its proposals which were accepted by
ML. Congress accepted it with its own interpretations & later rejected the plan at
which the ML withdrew its acceptance. The Cabinet Mission failed & went back.
• Mountbatten, the new Viceroy arrived in March 1947. He realized that the demand
for partition cannot be ignored & chalked out a plan for the partition of the sub
continent. After getting it approved by the British government, Mountbatten
announced the partition of India on 3rd June 1947. He fixed the date of 15th August
1947 for handing over power, announced the appointment of a boundary
commission & the division of assets between India & Pakistan.
• Briefly speaking from all the events of 1940s, the Lahore resolution was the most
important factor that led to the partition of the sub continent. The resolution formed
the basis of later decisions & emerged as the only proper solution for the political
problem of India after the departure of the British.
• Why did Gandhi-Jinnah Talks fail?
• One of the reasons was that Gandhi wanted to discuss partition of India only after
independence from British. Jinnah knew that congress would not keep their word
once in power and Muslim will be at there, he refused to accept this term so G-J
talks failed due to disagreement on partition matter.

• Another reason was that Gandhi wanted central federation to has control over
reserved subjects like defence and foreign policies. This would mean more power to
Hindu and Jinnah believed that this was against provincial autonomy. Thus, due to
disagreement on power distribution, G-J talks failed.
• Gandhi claimed that he was the representatives of India and Muslims were not a
separate nation but Jinnah insisted that he considered Gandhi only as the
spokesman of congress and Hindus. Thus G-J talks failed as Jinnah refused to accept
the position of Gandhi in India and secondly because Gandhi refused to accept that
Muslims were a separate nation
Wavell Plan 1945

Background
The Second World War had caused many socio-economic problems in the British Empire,
especially when it came to maintaining their overseas colonies. Thus the British Government
saw it fit to grant India the freedom it had been demanding for so long. In addition, the Quit
India Movement and an increase in revolutionary activity only made the British position in
India tenuous at best.
Lord Wavell, who became the Viceroy in 1943, was charged with presenting a formula for
the future government of India that would be acceptable to both the Indian National
Congress and the All-India Muslim League, allowing for a smooth transition of power. Lord
Wavell was considered an apt person for this task as he had been the head of the Indian
Army and thus had a better understanding of the Indian situation.
In October 1943 the British Government decided to replace Lord Linlithgow with Lord
Wavell as the Viceroy of India. Before assuming the charge, Wavell worked as the Chief of
the Indian army and thus had quite an understanding of the Indian situation. Right after
assuming charge as Viceroy, Wavell’s most important task was to present a formula for the
solution of the Indian problem which was acceptable for both the Congress and the Muslim
League. After doing his basic homework, in May 1945 he visited London and discussed his
suggestions with the British Government. The London talks resulted in the formulation of a
definite plan of action which was officially made public simultaneously on June 14, 1945, by
L.S. Amery, the Secretary of State for India in the House of Commons, and by Wavell in a
broadcast speech delivered from Delhi. The plan, commonly known as Wavell Plan
presented the following proposals:
1. If all the Indian political parties would help the British in the war, then the British
Government would introduce Constitutional Reforms in India after the war.
2. Viceroy’s Executive Council would be immediately reconstituted and the number of
its members would be increased.
3. In that Council, there would be equal representation of high-class Hindus and
Muslims.
4. Other minorities including low-caste Hindus, Shudders, and Sikhs would be given
representation in the Council.
5. All the members of the Council, except the Viceroy and the Commander-in-Chief,
would be Indians.

6. An Indian would be appointed as a member of Foreign Affairs in the Council.

However, a British Commissioner would be appointed to look after the matters
relating to the trade.
7. Defence of India was to be in the hands of a British authority till Power was
transferred to the Indian hands
8. Viceroy would convene a meeting of the Indian politician including the leaders of
Congress and the Muslim League so that they could nominate the names of the
members of the new Council.
9. If this plan is approved for the Central Government, then the same type of popular
ministries comprising of the political leaders would be formed in all the provinces.
10. None of the changes suggested will in any way prejudice or prejudge the essential
form of the future permanent Constitution of India
To discuss the proposal with the Indian leaders, Wavell summoned a conference in Simla on
June 25, 1945.
What did the Wavell Plan Propose?
In May 1945 Wavell visited London and discussed his ideas with the British Government.
These London talks resulted in the formulation of a definite plan of action which was
officially made public simultaneously on 14 June 1945 by L.S. Amery, the Secretary of State
for India. The Wavell Plan proposed the following:
• The Viceroy’s Executive Council was to have all Indian members except the Viceroy
himself and the Commander-in-Chief.
• The council was to have a ‘balanced representation’ of all Indians including ‘caste-
Hindus’, Muslims, Depressed Classes, Sikhs, etc. Muslims were given 6 out of 14
members which accounted for more than their share of the population (25%).
• The Viceroy/Governor-General would still have the power of veto but its use would
be minimal.
• The foreign affairs portfolio would be transferred from the Governor-General to an
Indian member. The defence would be handled by a British general until the full
transfer of power was made.
• A conference would be convened by the Viceroy to get a list of all the members
recommended to the Council from all parties concerned. In case a joint list was not
agreed upon, separate lists would be taken from the parties. This was to be the Simla
Conference.
• If this plan worked, similar councils would be formed in all provinces comprising of
local leaders.
To know more about the legislation passed in British India, click on the linked article.
What happened at the Shimla Conference?
Lord Wavell invited 21 political leaders including Mahatma Gandhi and M A Jinnah to
Shimla, the summer capital of British India to discuss the Wavell Plan on June 25th, 1945.

• The conference was a failure because the League and the Congress could not settle
their differences.
• Jinnah insisted that only League members could be the Muslim representatives in
the Council, and opposed to the Congress nominating Muslim members. This was
because Jinnah wanted the League to be the sole representative of Muslims in India.
Congress would never agree to this demand.
• In the Wavell Plan, there were 6 Muslim representatives out of 14 members, which
was more than the Muslim share of the population. Despite this, the League wanted
the power of veto to any constitutional proposal which it believed was not in its
interest. Congress opposed this unreasonable demand also.
• Jinnah refused to give the names to the council unless the government
acknowledged that only the Muslim League was the exclusive representative of
Indian Muslims.
• The Wavell Plan, thus, was dissolved with the failure of the conference. And with it
the last chance to avoid partition.
• After this, the war ended and a new Labour government was elected in Britain. This
new government was intent on giving independence to India without much delay
and sent the Cabinet Mission with that purpose.
The failure of the Wavell Plan and the Shimla Conference was a watershed moment for
the Indian Independence struggle. All steps taken to prevent partition had been met with
failure, meaning that it was inevitable.
After the failure of Simla conference Lord Wavell announced general and provincial
elections after which constitutional making body was to be set up. Viceroy announced the
formation of executive council with the support of both Muslims and Hindus parties. But
both parties rejected the proposal. Quaid-i-Azam declared that Muslims were not ready to
accept any settlement less than a separate homeland for them and the All-India Congress
Committee characterized the proposal as vague, inadequate and unsatisfactory because it
had not addressed the issue of independence. Despite this, both parties launched election
campaigns. Because they knew that the elections were essential for the future of India, as
the results were to play an important role in determining their standing.
The League wanted to sweep the Muslim constituencies so as to prove that they were the
sole representatives of the Muslims of India, while on the other hand Congress wanted to
prove that they represent all Indians. Both parties raised different slogans during whole
election campaign. Congress tried to get support of all those parties who were against the
Muslim League.
Elections for central legislature were held on December 1945 with the limited franchise.
During these elections Congress won about 80 percent of the general seats and 91.3 percent
general votes and Muslim League won all 30 reserved seats for Muslims. Provincial election
held on 1946 results was not different. Muslim League won 95 percent seats for Muslims
and Congress won all seats for non-Muslims.
CAUSES OF THE FAILURE OF SIMLA CONFERENCE:

• Jinnah pointed that as Sikhs & scheduled castes on the council are bound to vote
with Hindu, which would mean a permanent Muslim minority in council.
• Jinnah also objected to the congress suggestion that it could also nominate Muslims
& pointed that League had won every by – election for the last two years & was the
undisputed voice of the Muslims.
• Lord Wavell could see no solution so closed the conference on 14 July.
Question no.1: was the Simla conference of 1945 the most important factor during the
1940s leading to the partition of the Sub continent in 1947? Give reasons for your answer.
[14] -June 2003 Q. 3 c
Question no.2: how successful were negotiations aimed at independence during 2ndw.w?
Explain your answer. [14] Oct 2010 Q.4 c
Simla conference of 1945 remained one of the important factors during 1940s to the
partition of the sub-continent. The Viceroy Lord Wavell called the Simla Conference in June
1945 just at the end of WW II. The viceroy wanted to establish an Executive Council in which
all subjects excepted defenseshould be given to Indians. He proposed that equal number of
Hindu & Muslim members would be included in the Executive Council. For the first time the
important portfolios of foreign affairs, finance & the interior would be held by Indians.The
congress objected to the idea of equal number of Hindus & Muslims & desired that one
Muslim seat should be given to congress because there were many Muslims in the congress
party.
Quaid-e-Azam took a firm stand & explained that Muslim League being the sole
representative party of Muslims of India had the right to nominate all Muslim members. The
conference failed on crucial point of method of selection. But it was clear that the point of
partition of India was not on the agenda of the Simla Conference. The Simla conference
ended without achieving anything.
On the other hand Lahore resolution remained the most important factor for the
development of independence. Lahore Resolution of March 1940 clearly demanded
contiguous Muslim majority provinces in the north west & east of India should be grouped
together to form an independent Muslim state . Both the Hindus & the British opposed the
partition of the sub-continent. But this resolution brought the Muslims of India under one
banner & Pakistan became the objective, ambition & goal of the Muslim nation. The
resolution increased the importance & popularity of ML. it also greatly added to the
credibility & importance of Mr. Jinnah in Indian politics. ML became the true representative
of the Muslims of India & Jinnah was the sole spokesman. Surprisingly great support came
from the Muslims of minority provinces.
The cabinet Mission plan in March 1946 to find a solution for handing over power in India.
After long negotiations the Mission gave its proposals which were accepted by ML. Congress
accepted it with its own interpretations & later rejected the plan at which the ML withdrew
its acceptance. The Cabinet Mission failed & went back. Mountbatten, the new Viceroy
arrived in March 1947. He realized that the demand for partition cannot be ignored &

chalked out a plan for the partition of the sub-continent. After getting it approved by the
British government, Mountbatten announced the partition of India on 3rd June 1947. He
fixed the date of 15th August 1947 for handing over power, announced the appointment of a
boundary commission & the division of assets between India & Pakistan.
Briefly speaking from all the events of 1940s, the Lahore resolution was the most important
factor that led to the partition of the sub-continent. The resolution formed the basis of later
decisions & emerged as the only proper solution for the political problem of India after the
departure of the British.
• General Elections (1945-46)

• Winston Churchill's conservative Government was replaced by the labour party.
• The new Prime Minister of Britain Clement Atlee the former deputy Prime Minister
of Churchill was determined to give self-rule to India.
• The elections were to set up an executive council of major parties.
• INC campaigned for an Independent and United India.
• Muslim League demanded separate state and independence
• INC got non-Muslim voters including N.W.F.P.
• Muslim League got 87% of total Muslim votes 30/30 in central assembly voters
• 100% seats in the (Centre and Largest Party in Punjab 446/495)
The Cabinet Mission Plan 1946
Cabinet Mission was a high-powered mission sent in February 1946 to India by the Atlee
Government (British Prime Minister.)
The mission had three British cabinet members
i. Sir Stafford Cripps (President Board of Trade)

ii. Mr. Albert Victor Alexander (Lord of Admiralty)
iii. Lord Pathic Lawrence (Secretary of State for India)

The Cabinet Mission’s aim was to discuss the transfer of power from British to Indian
leadership.
What was Cabinet Mission & Who were its members?
Clement Atlee (British Prime Minister) decided to send a mission to India for the transfer of
powers from the British Indian government to Indian leaders. The mission had three
members mentioned with their posts in the table below:
Proposals of Cabinet Mission
On 16th May 1946, the members of Cabinet Mission announced a plan.
1. The Sub Continent should be a union consisting of many provinces and several
states. The Union should deal with the affairs of defence, foreign affairs and
communication. Other affairs will be given to provinces.
2. The provinces of India will form three groups:
3. Group A: Hindu Majority Provinces of Madras, Bombay, U.P, C.P, Bihar and Orissa .
4. Group B: Muslim Majority Provinces like Punjab, NWFP, Baluchistan and Sindh .
5. Group C: Bangal and Asaam .
6. All the provinces and states will be given seats in the Central Legislature on the basis
of population.
7. The members of the Provincial Assemblies will elect the Central Legislature. The
Central Legislature will frame the constitution for the whole country.
8. The representative of major parties will form interim Government and no British will
be included in cabinet. Every Province can join group of his own choice.
9. If one or two provinces from the groups decide to separate from union, they could
do so after ten years. This point granted the right to the Muslim majority areas of
group B and C to make Pakistan after ten years.
10. If a political party dislikes the proposal given by Cabinet Mission, it can veto it.
However, the right to join the Interim Government will be given to the political party
which accept the proposals.
On 22nd January 1946, the decision to send Cabinet Mission was taken and on 19th February
1946, the British PM C.R Attlee Government announced in the House of Lords about the
mission and the plan to quit India. A high-powered mission of three British Cabinet
members- Lord Pethick-Lawrence, the Secretary of State for India, Sir Stafford Cripps,
President of the Board of Trade, and A. V. Alexander, the First Lord of the Admiralty reached
Delhi on 24th March 1946.
Proposals of Mission
• The Mission proposed to secure an agreement on the method of framing the

Constitution to the discussions with elected representatives of British India and the
Indian states on Preceding and preparing.
• Proposes to set up a constitution body
• Proposes to set up an Executive Council with the support of the main Indian parties.

Purpose of the Mission
• To resolve political deadlock between the Indian National Congress and the All-India
Muslim League at their stance to prevent a communal dispute whether British India
would be better-off unified or divided.
• The Congress party wanted to obtain a strong central government with more powers
as compared to state governments.
• All India Muslim League under Jinnah wanted to keep India united but with political
safeguards provided to Muslims such as ‘guarantee’ of ‘parity’ in the legislatures.
• On 16 May 1946, this plan was announced and preceded by Shimla Conference of
1945.
Recommendations of Mission
• The unity of India had to be retained.

• It proposed a very loose union of all the Indian territories under a centre that would
control merely defence, the Foreign Affairs and the Commutation. The Union would
have the powers necessary to raise the finances to manage these subjects.
• All subjects other than Union subjects and residuary power would vest in the
provinces of British India.
• The Princely Legislatures would then elect a Constituent Assembly or a Constitution
making body with each province being allotted a specified number of seats
proportionate to its population.
• The proposed Constituent Assembly was to consist was to consist of 292 members
from British India and 93 from Indian States.
• The Mission proposed an immediate formation of Interim Government at the centre,
enjoying the support of major political parties and with the Indians holding all the
portfolios.
Conclusion
The main objective of Cabinet Mission was to find out ways and means for the peaceful
transfer of power in India, to suggest measures for the formation of a constitution making
machinery and also to set up the Interim Government.
DIRECT ACTION DAY 1946:
Direct Action Day, also known as the Great Calcutta Riot, was on 16 August 1946—a day of
widespread riot and manslaughter in the city of Calcutta (now known as Kolkata) in the
Bengal province of British India. The day also marked the start of what is known as "The
Week of the Long Knives".
The protest triggered massive riots in Calcutta, instigated by the Muslim League and its
Volunteer Corps against Hindus and Sikhs, followed by retaliatory attacks on Muslims by
Congress followers and supporters. In Calcutta, within 72 hours, more than 4,000 people
lost their lives and 100,000 residents in the city of Calcutta were left homeless. Violence in
Calcutta sparked off further religious riots in the surrounding regions of Noakhali, Bihar,

United Province (modern Uttar Pradesh), Punjab, and the North Western Frontier Province.
These events sowed the seeds for the eventual Partition of India.
THE 3RD JUNE PLAN 1947
When all of Mountbatten's efforts to keep India united failed, he asked Ismay to chalk out a
plan for the transfer of power and the division of the country. It was decided that none of
the Indian parties would view it before the plan was finalized.
The plan was finalized in the Governor's Conference in April 1947, and was then sent to
Britain in May where the British Government approved it.
However, before the announcement of the plan, Nehru who was staying with Mountbatten
as a guest in his residence at Simla, had a look at the plan and rejected it. Mountbatten then
asked V. P. Menon, the only Indian in his personal staff, to present a new plan for the
transfer of power. Nehru edited Menon's formula and then Mountbatten himself took the
new plan to London, where he got it approved without any alteration. Attlee and his cabinet
gave the approval in a meeting that lasted not more than five minutes. In this way, the plan
that was to decide the future of the Indo-Pak Sub-continent was actually authored by a
Congress-minded Hindu and was approved by Nehru himself.
Mountbatten came back from London on May 31, and on June 2 met seven Indian leaders.
These were Nehru, Patel, Kriplalani, Quaid-i-Azam, Liaquat, Nishtar and Baldev Singh. After
these leaders approved the plan, Mountbatten discussed it with Gandhi and convinced him
that it was the best plan under the circumstances. The plan was made public on June 3, and
is thus known as the June 3rd Plan.
Question: How successful were negotiation aimed at independence during World War II?
Explain your answer?
Answer
Failure Success
Breakdown of relation between ML and Day of Deliverance
Congress Lahore Resolution
Rejection of Cripps Mission Proposals Unity in rejection Cripps Mission
Imprisonment following the Quit-India Demand for separate homeland
Movement
Failure to reach agreement from Gandhi Muslim political gains Gandhi – Jinnah talks
Jinnah talks and Wavell Plan and Simla
Conference
Wavell plan and Simla Conference Muslim were not happy the conference
Jinnah was not satisfied with the rights of New elections necessary for India
the Muslims in united India

3rd June plan 1947;
In February 1947, the British PM announced, in The British Parliament that British would
have to leave India before June 1948.
• Mountbatten came to India in March, 1947 and his meetings with different political
leaders convinced him that the partition was inevitable.
• In May 1947, Killings and Riots started in India and there was a chance of civil war
• Nehru also stated that all those provinces which wish to join Pakistan will be allowed
to do so.
• By May 1947, Mountbatten had formulated a scheme which was eventually made
public on 3rd June 1947.
• The Muslim majority areas to be given independence and the British would transfer
power to two states: India and Pakistan.
• Both states would have Dominion status and the interim constitution of both would
by Government of India Act 1935 with certain amendments.
• Both states would have an executive which would be answerable to their constitute
assemblies.
• It provides an option for all princely states to decide which country to join.
• As far as the boundaries of India and Pakistan were concerned, a boundary
commission to be set up to determine the exact demarcation.
• The legislative assemblies of Sindh, N.W.F.P and Balochistan were given an option to
vote for Pakistan.
• The day after his plan, Mountbattan had decided that the date of withdrawal would
by 15th Aug 1947 not June 1948.
• All the decisions had to be implemented in 72 days.
• Some problems were un-resolved such as division of assets and problems of
princely-states.
• India had accepted Mountbattan to be the First G.G of India while Mr.Jinnah of
Pakistan.

• It was to have serious consequence later on as Mountbattan would have revenge on

the state of Pakistan.
• There was still a need to draw boundaries between Muslim and Non-Muslim,
particularly in Bengal and Punjab.
• Two states should be set up India & Pakistan. The interim government of both states
was the 1935 government of India act.
• Each state was to have dominion status & have an executive responsible to a
constituent assembly.
• Muslim majority provinces would vote either to stay in India or join Pakistan. In
Sindh &Baluchistan, provincial Legislatures voted to join Pakistan. Bengal & Punjab
decided that they should join Pakistan but their Muslim – minority areas will remain
in India. NWFP also joined Pakistan after holding a referendum. The Muslim-majority
district of Sylhet in Assam joined the eastern wing of Pakistan.
• Day after a 3rd June plan, Mountbatten said that final transfer of power might be
brought forward from June 1948 to 15 August 1947.
• On 15 July 1947 the independence Act was passed.
• From 15 august British India would be partitioned into two dominion states.
THE RADCLIFFE BOUNDARY AWARD 1947:
• SIR Cyril Radcliff was appointed to head a Boundary Commission to establish new
borders.
• Radcliff had four assistants, two nominated by the league & two by the congress.
• The decision of the Boundary Commission known as “the Boundary Award or Radcliff
Award” was announced on 16 August 1947.
• Calcutta, Gurdaspur, Firozpur were awarded to India though they were Muslim
majority areas.
• Jinnah told people of Pakistan that the awards were wrong, unjust & perverse.

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Section 2 Revision Guide 2059 History and Culture

Section 2: The emergence of Pakistan 1906–47

⮚ GOVERNMENT OF INDIA ACT – 1935

⮚ CONGRESS RULE 1937 – 1939

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The Indian National Congress

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Bengal was largest

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Reversal of Partition 1911

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Simla Deputation 1906

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Morley Minto Reforms, 1909

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Between and , Deobandi leaders MaulanaObeidullah Sindhi and Maulana

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The Lucknow Pact, 1916

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The Montague Chelmsford Reforms, 1919

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Rowlatt Act, 1919

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1. Arrest without warrant

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A photograph of an entrance to JallianwalaBagh, which is largely unchanged since 1919

Non –Cooperation Movement

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What was Arya Samaj?

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Khilafat Movement 1919-1924

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End of Khilafat Movement

SIMON COMMISSION 1927

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● Its membership had been selected to oppose self-government

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The following were the recommendations advanced by the Nehru Report:

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Rejection of Nehru Report

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Why did Mr.Jinnah produce his 14 points?

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9. Sindh should be separated from the Bombay presidency.

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Iqbal’s Allahabad Address 1930:

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Why was Allama Iqbal important to the Pakistan Movement? [7]

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