Muslim Separatism, Partition, and the Dynamics of Hindu-Muslim Unity and Disunity in 1920s-1940s India: A Historical Analysis
Keywords:
Muslim separatism, Partition, British policy, Hindu-Muslim unity, Khilafat Movement, Nehru Report, Hindu-Muslim relations, Congress Ministries, Cabinet Mission Plan.Abstract
This study examines Hindu-Muslim relations in 1920s-1940s India, focusing on factors that influenced unity and disunity between the communities. It explores the impact of the Khilafat Movement, the rejection of the Nehru Report, and the British "divide and rule" policy on Hindu-Muslim relations and India's eventual partition. The Khilafat Movement, driven by concern for the Islamic caliphate during World War I, brought Hindus and Muslims together. Unity was seen in joint gatherings and Muslim abstention from cow slaughter. The Khilafat Committee raised concerns to the British, emphasizing shared interests and religious sensitivities. However, the Muslim community rejected the Nehru Report for not addressing their demands for separate electorates and adequate Muslim representation. This strained relations and hindered finding a solution. The Congress's inflexibility on these demands further worsened the situation. The British policy of "divide and rule" exacerbated communal tensions. While aiming for a united India, their policy deepened Hindu-Muslim mistrust. The impact of the Simon Commission report and political negotiations on bridging or widening the communal divide is explored. This study provides a comprehensive understanding of the complex factors influencing Hindu-Muslim unity and disunity. It sheds light on the significance of the Khilafat Movement, the rejection of the Nehru Report, and the British divide and rule policy in shaping India's path towards partition.
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