Ideology of Pakistan... Unit 1
Ideology of Pakistan... Unit 1
Ideology of Pakistan... Unit 1
‘Ideology refers to a set of political beliefs or a set of ideas that characterize a particular culture.
Capitalism, communism, socialism, and Marxism’
Iqbal in his famous Allahabad address presented the idea of Pakistan as:
“A separate homeland for the Muslims as a permanent solution to Hindu-Muslim communal tensions”
“Ideology is a word to describe a set of ideas and beliefs that are dominant in society and are used to
justify the power and privilege of the ruling class.”
Meaning of an Ideology:
The word “ideology” is composed of two Greek words “ideo” and “logos”. It literally means “the science
or study of ideas”.
The ideology of any nation reflects the ideals and aspirations of its people, and religion and cultural
shape, their thinking which binds them together. An ideology in the positive sense is a system of beliefs,
values, ideas, convictions, institutions, goals and a body of knowledge which a people considers true,
binding and practicable.
Characteristics of an Ideology:
The ideology of Pakistan took shape through an evolutionary process. Historical experience provided the
base; Allama Iqbal gave it a philosophical explanation; Quaid-i-Azam translated it into a political
reality; and the Constituent Assembly of Pakistan, by passing Objectives Resolution in March 1949, gave
it legal sanction. It was due to the realization of the Muslims of South Asia that they are different from the
Hindus that they demanded separate electorates. However, when they realized that their future in a
‘Democratic India” dominated by Hindu majority was not safe, they changed their demand to a separate
state.
The creation of Pakistan was unique in the sense that it was based on an ideology which sought its roots
from the religion of Islam. The famous slogan was as under:-
It became the corner of the freedom movement and the basis of Pakistan.
Meaning and definitions of Pakistan Ideology are explained as under:-
Pakistan is an Ideological state, and the ideology of Pakistan is Islamic ideology. Its basic principle being:
Islam acted as a nation-building force before the establishment of Pakistan. The ideology of Pakistan
basically means that Pakistan should be a state where the Muslims should have an opportunity to live
according to the faith and creed based on the Islamic principles. They should have all the resources at the
disposal to enhance Islamic culture and civilization. Quid-e-Azam once said:
“Pakistan was created the day the first Indian national entered the field of Islam”.
From the above statement, it is clear that Ideology of Pakistan is an Islamic one.
Significance of Ideology of Pakistan:
The inception of Pakistan in 1947 marked a pivotal moment in the history of the Indian subcontinent. It
represented the culmination of a long-fought struggle for self-determination and religious freedom. The
ideology of Pakistan provided a unifying vision for Muslims, transcending linguistic, cultural, and
regional divides, fostering a shared sense of purpose.
Contemporary Relevance:
Nation-Building and Unity: The ideology of Pakistan serves as the base for national unity, providing a
common identity for a diverse population. It promotes a sense of belonging among citizens, irrespective
of their individual backgrounds, shaping a united front in the face of internal and external challenges.
Safeguarding Religious Pluralism: Pakistan's ideology champions religious freedom and protects the
rights of all religious minorities. It visualizes a society where individuals are free to practice their faith
without fear or prejudice, embodying the principles of tolerance and coexistence.
Constitutional Framework: The Constitution of Pakistan, which draws heavily from the ideology,
establishes Islam as the state religion while also guaranteeing fundamental rights and freedoms to all
citizens, irrespective of their religious beliefs. This balance reflects a commitment to the principles of
justice and equality.
Foreign Policy and International Relations: The ideology of Pakistan plays a pivotal role in shaping the
nation's foreign policy. It underscores Pakistan's commitment to support Muslim causes worldwide and
advocate for justice, peace, and self-determination on the global stage.
Social Justice and Economic Development: The ideology of Pakistan places a strong emphasis on social
justice, seeking to eradicate poverty, inequality, and injustice. It envisions a society where all citizens
have equal access to opportunities and resources, fostering sustainable economic development.
Counterterrorism and National Security: The ideology of Pakistan stands resolutely against extremism
and terrorism, affirming the nation's commitment to maintaining peace and stability. It encourages a
vigilant approach in safeguarding the nation from internal and external threats.
The ideology of Pakistan, as envisioned by the founders, continues to be a driving force behind the
nation's progress and development. It offers a guiding framework for governance, ensuring that Pakistan
remains true to its core principles of justice, equality, and religious freedom. By upholding this ideology,
Pakistan can navigate the challenges of the present while striving towards a future that embodies the
vision of its founding fathers.
Historical context of the creation of Pakistan, (with an emphasis on the socio-political,
religious and cultural dynamics of British india between 1857 – 1947).
The creation of Pakistan in 1947 was a momentous event in the history of British India, deeply rooted in
the socio-political, religious, and cultural dynamics that unfolded between 1857 and 1947. This
transformative period saw significant shifts in power, identity, and objectives, ultimately leading to the
partition of India and the birth of Pakistan.
Socio-Political Dynamics:
British Colonial Rule: British colonialism had a profound impact on the Indian subcontinent during this
period. The colonial administration brought about significant changes in governance, infrastructure, and
education. The centralized rule of the British East India Company evolved into direct Crown rule by
1858, and this shift marked the beginning of the British Raj.
Indian Nationalism: The late 19th and early 20th centuries witnessed the emergence of Indian
nationalism. Key figures like Dadabhai Naoroji, Bal Gangadhar Tilak, and Annie Besant began
advocating for self-governance and civil rights for Indians. The Indian National Congress, founded in
1885, became a significant platform for expressing nationalist demands.
Muslim Identity and the Two-Nation Theory: Alongside the Indian National Congress, the All-India
Muslim League, established in 1906, played a pivotal role. Leaders like Muhammad Ali Jinnah began to
emphasize the distinct religious, cultural, and political identity of Muslims in India. The Two-Nation
Theory, articulated by Allama Iqbal and Jinnah, argued that Hindus and Muslims were two separate
nations with distinct socio-political aspirations.
Religious Dynamics:
Communal Tensions: The period between 1857 and 1947 saw escalating communal tensions between
Hindus and Muslims, often exacerbated by British divide-and-rule policies. Religious riots and clashes
became more frequent, highlighting the growing polarization.
Partition of Bengal: The partition of Bengal in 1905, although later revoked in 1911 due to widespread
protests, illustrated how communal considerations were increasingly factored into administrative
decisions. The fear of cultural and religious domination further fueled demands for separate Muslim
representation and political safeguards.
Cultural Dynamics:
Language and Identity: Language and culture were integral to the formation of distinct identities. The
promotion of Hindi by some Indian leaders and Urdu by the Muslim League reflected the linguistic and
cultural diversity of India, which played a role in the demand for separate states.
Cultural Revival: The period also witnessed a cultural revival, with the promotion of literature, arts, and
traditions that aimed to preserve and propagate distinct identities. This cultural resurgence contributed to
the reassertion of Muslim identity.
In conclusion, the creation of Pakistan in 1947 was the conclusion of complex socio-political, religious,
and cultural dynamics that unfolded during the period between 1857 and 1947. These dynamics included
the momentum for self-governance, the rise of Indian nationalism, the assertion of Muslim identity, and
the developing of communal tensions. The partition of India, into India and Pakistan, was a response to
these dynamics, ultimately leading to the birth of two independent nations and reshaping the political
landscape of South Asia.
Men like Allama Iqbal are born but in centuries. He was conscious of the significance of Islam in lives of
the Muslims. His first public appearance was in 1899 at the annual session of Anjuman Himayat-i-Islam
in Lahore when he presented the poem, Nala-i-Yatim. At initial stages, Dr Iqbal was a nationalist by
ideas, and his poetry contained verses like Tarana-i- Hind. His poetry was a critique of the existing
societal conditions. Being educated from Europe, he knew all weak aspects of the Western culture. He
criticized capitalism, materialism, and lack of spiritualism. Iqbal focus on the conditions of the Indian
Muslims. Iqbal gave the idea of Pakistan. He inspired the Muslims of India to make the demand for a
separate homeland. He infects, prepared the ground for Mr Jinnah, who finally led the Muslims to the
goal of Pakistan. Mr. Jinnah acknowledged his debt to Dr Iqbal in the following words:
“His views were substantially in consonance with my own and had finally led me to the same
conclusions as a result of careful examination and study of the constitutional problems facing
India”.
Allama Muhammad Iqbal, valued as the national poet of Pakistan, made profound contributions towards
the ideological and philosophical foundations that paved the way for the creation of Pakistan in 1947. His
intellectual legacy and visionary thought played a crucial role in shaping the concept of a separate Muslim
state on the Indian subcontinent. Here are some of the key ways in which Allama Iqbal contributed to the
formation of Pakistan:
Concept of a Separate Muslim State: Allama Iqbal's seminal address at the All-India Muslim League's
annual session in 1930, famously known as the Allahabad Address, articulated the idea of a separate
Muslim state. He emphasized the distinct religious, cultural, and socio-political identity of Muslims in
India, calling for the creation of an independent state where they could practice their faith freely and live
in accordance with their values.
The Two-Nation Theory: Iqbal's philosophical and intellectual contributions were foundational to the
development of the Two-Nation Theory, which posited that Hindus and Muslims in the Indian
subcontinent were two distinct nations with irreconcilable differences. This theory provided the
ideological basis for the demand for a separate Muslim state.
Poetic Works and Literary Contributions: Allama Iqbal's poetry, particularly his Persian and Urdu
poetry, served as a powerful medium for conveying his vision of a united and empowered Muslim
community. His poems, such as "Bang-e-Dra" and "Bal-e-Jibril," not only celebrated the glory of Islamic
civilization but also addressed contemporary socio-political issues, inspiring a sense of collective identity
among Muslims.
Advocacy for Educational Reforms: Allama Iqbal was an advocate for educational reforms that aimed
to cultivate critical thinking, spiritual awareness, and a sense of purpose among Muslims. He believed that
a reinvigorated educational system was essential for the regeneration of the Muslim community and for
fostering the intellectual foundations of a separate state.
Influence on Leadership: Iqbal's ideas and vision had a profound impact on key leaders of the Pakistan
Movement, most notably Muhammad Ali Jinnah. Jinnah, who would later become the founding father of
Pakistan, drew heavily from Iqbal's intellectual legacy in advocating for the creation of Pakistan.
Allama Iqbal's intellectual, philosophical, and literary contributions provided the ideological
underpinnings for the demand for a separate Muslim state in the Indian subcontinent. His vision of a
united and empowered Muslim community, coupled with his advocacy for individual self-realization and
educational reforms, continues to be celebrated as a cornerstone of Pakistan's identity and purpose.
Allama Iqbal's enduring legacy as the national poet of Pakistan remains an inspiration for generations to
come.
Contribution of Quaid.e.Azam:
Muhammad Ali Jinnah was a history-making leader who changed the sequence of history. He possessed a
visionary leadership, commitment to the cause and political mobilization capacity. He was a Charismatic
Leader in the real sense of the meaning.
Jinnah played a decisive role in articulating the Muslim demands and pursuing this faced strong
opposition from the Hindus and the British. He started his political career in 1906 by joining the Indian
National Congress. He was elected to the Legislative Council in 1909, and in 1913 he also joined the All
India Muslim League (AIML). Now he was a member of both the political parties. Having a disagreement
with Gandhi on the issue of Swaraj (self-rule), complete freedom from the British, Jinnah resigned from
the Congress in 1920. His early efforts to promote Hindu-Muslim unity were materialized when THE
LUCKNOW PACT (1916) was signed.
Muhammad Ali Jinnah, often referred to as Quaid-e-Azam (meaning "Great Leader"), stands as the
pivotal figure in the creation of Pakistan. His steadfast leadership, unwavering commitment to the rights
of Muslims, and astute political acumen played an instrumental role in the formation of Pakistan in 1947.
Here are some of the key contributions of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah:
Leadership and Vision: Jinnah's leadership was characterized by his rigid commitment to the cause of an
independent Muslim state. He articulated the demands of the Muslim community with eloquence,
foresight, and an unshakable belief in their right to self-determination.
Advocacy for Constitutional Rights: Jinnah was a tireless advocate for the political and constitutional
rights of Muslims in British India. As the leader of the All-India Muslim League, he worked diligently to
secure safeguards for Muslim interests, including representation, in any future constitutional framework.
Negotiation and Diplomacy: Jinnah's skillful negotiation with various political stakeholders, including
the British colonial administration, the Indian National Congress, and other political parties, played a
crucial role in advancing the cause of a separate Muslim state. His ability to navigate complex political
landscapes was central to achieving consensus.
The Lahore Resolution (1940): Under Jinnah's guidance, the All-India Muslim League passed the
Lahore Resolution in 1940. This landmark resolution unequivocally called for the creation of an
independent state for Muslims in the northern and northwestern regions of British India, setting the stage
for the eventual establishment of Pakistan.
Steadfastness in the Face of Opposition: Jinnah faced significant opposition and resistance to the idea
of Pakistan, both from within the Muslim community and from political adversaries. However, his
unyielding determination and unwavering belief in the viability of a separate Muslim state helped
overcome these challenges.
Legal Expertise and Constitutional Framework: Jinnah, a brilliant lawyer, utilized his legal acumen to
articulate the legal basis for the demand for Pakistan. He played a crucial role in crafting the legal and
constitutional framework that would underpin the newly independent state.
Mobilization of Masses: Jinnah's ability to mobilize and inspire the Muslim masses was a testament to
his leadership. Through his speeches and interactions with people across the subcontinent, he galvanized
support for the idea of Pakistan, fostering a sense of unity and purpose among Muslims.
Founding Father of Pakistan: On August 14, 1947, Pakistan emerged as an independent state, and
Muhammad Ali Jinnah assumed the role of its first Governor-General. His leadership in the early years of
Pakistan was instrumental in shaping the nascent nation and laying the groundwork for its future
development.
In conclusion, Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah's visionary leadership, determined spirit, and
tireless advocacy for the rights of Muslims in British India were pivotal in the creation of Pakistan. His
legacy as the founding father of Pakistan endures, and his contributions continue to be celebrated as
foundational to the nation's identity and purpose.
The role of women and students in the inception of Pakistan was significant and multifaceted. They
played crucial roles in various aspects of the movement for an independent Muslim state, which
culminated in the creation of Pakistan in 1947. Here are some key contributions:
Political Activism: Women actively participated in political movements and organizations that advocated
for the rights of Muslims and the creation of a separate Muslim state. They joined political parties like the
All India Muslim League (AIML) and supported leaders like Muhammad Ali Jinnah, who championed
the cause of Pakistan.
Advocacy and Awareness: Women played a vital role in creating awareness about the idea of Pakistan
among their communities. They organized lectures, seminars, and social gatherings to educate people
about the benefits of a separate state for Muslims.
Public Demonstrations: Women, alongside students, took part in public demonstrations, processions,
and protests to demand their rights and advocate for the establishment of Pakistan. They were vocal in
expressing their support for the cause.
Literary Contributions: Many women writers and intellectuals used their pens to articulate the
ideological foundations of Pakistan. They wrote articles, essays, and books that helped shape public
opinion and fostered a sense of identity among Muslims.
Education and Empowerment: Women's education was seen as a key element in the development of a
progressive and enlightened society in Pakistan. Organizations like Anjuman-e-Khawateen-e-Islam
worked towards the education and empowerment of women.
Religious and Social Mobilization: Women actively participated in religious gatherings, advocating for
the rights of Muslims and promoting the idea of Pakistan as a separate Muslim state where they could
practice their faith freely.
Student Activism: Students, both male and female, played a vital role in the inception of Pakistan. They
organized protests, strikes, and political activities on campuses across the subcontinent, advocating for the
creation of a separate state.
Role in the Pakistan Movement: Women and students were integral components of the broader Pakistan
Movement. Their contributions ranged from grassroots activism to intellectual engagement, helping to
mobilize support for the cause.
It's important to note that the contributions of women and students varied in scope and intensity across
different regions and communities within the subcontinent. Nonetheless, their collective efforts played a
crucial role in shaping the ideological and political landscape that ultimately led to the establishment of
Pakistan in 1947.