Department of Chemistry

Subject
Pakistan Studies
Assignment 02
Topic
Evolution Of Two Nation theory
Submitted By
Maryam Faisal
Roll Number:-
2023-b-chem-96
Instructor Name:-
Advocate Rana Muhammad Usama Aziz
Submission Date:-
7 June 2024

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 Content
Introduction

Importance

Evolution Of Two nation

Theory
Goal And Target

Difference Between
Hindus and Muslims
Sir Syed, Allama Iqbal
And Quaid e Azam point
Of view
Conclusion

References

Evolution of the Two Nation Theory

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Introduction
Nation can be described as a group of people with some characteristics
of race, language, religion or culture, living in a state and being united
by the state and their feelings and ambitions. Nationality is the feeling or
spirit of a nation.
In its simplest form the two-nation theory means that there are cultural,
political, religious, economic and social differences between the two
major nations of the Subcontinent, the Hindus and the Muslims. These
differences of outlook, in fact, were greatly responsible for the
emergence of two different political ideologies which led to the partition
of the sub-continent into two different states.
The two-nation theory means that the Hindus and the Muslims are two
different nations. According to two-nation theory the Quaid-i-Azam
demanded the division of India into two separate countries, one for
Muslims and the other for Hindus, the Muslim state to be known as
Pakistan and the other Hindu India that is Bharat.
Importance
The Two-Nation Theory was the foundation of the demand for Pakistan
by the Muslims in British India. British India has two major nations. The
Muslims are not a group of people or a society but a nation with its own

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history, tradition, culture, civilization and a vision for the future. The
Muslims wanted to maintain and defend their separate identity and to
promote their cause in India. They wanted their lives to be in harmony
with their beliefs and their conception of the world and life, and not be
dominated by an indifferent and hostile society. At first, they asked for
protection, constitutional rights and a federal structure of government
with some powers to the provinces for the preservation and promotion of
their culture, language and welfare. Later, they demanded a separate
state when even the British or the Hindu majority community was not
ready to provide those assurances and protection.
Evolution of the Two Nation Theory
The concept of Muslims as a Nation was developed long before the
creation of Pakistan. Pakistan was the outcome of this idea of nation and
not the other way around that the idea of nation was created out of
Pakistan. In this context, it is possible to state that the Muslim
nationalism started with the arrival of Islam, which introduced new ideas
that were applicable to every sphere of life. It is based on the Qur’an. It
is for this reason that Muslim nationalism in the Sub-continent can be
dated back to the first Indian who embraced Islam. The Arab traders had
introduced the new religion of Islam in the coastal areas of India.
Muhammad bin Qasim (695-715) was the first Muslim who conquered
some part of India and after that, Mahmud of Ghazni (971-1030)
launched 17 attacks and opened the gate to preach. Islam. Muslim sufis
(saints) such as Ali Hejveri, Miran Hussain Zanjani etc arrived in the
Sub-Continent. They conveyed the plain and clear message of the
religion of Islam and many people converted to Islam.

Qutub-ud-Din Aibuk who established Muslim dynasty in India in 1206

made it permanent in 1206 that was followed by Delhi Sultanate period
(1206-1526) and Mughal rule (1526-1857). Thus a strong Muslim A

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new community had emerged in India which had its own culture, values,
legends, history and traditions culture. Islam could not merge with
Hinduism. Deen-e-llahi, Baghti movements, etc. created a response from
the Muslim ulama to defend the pure Islamic character and to shield it
from such forces. It is also pertinent to mention the contribution of
Sheikh Ahmad Sirhindi (1564-1624) and others. Equality and social
justice were among the factors that contributed to the conversion to
Islam.
The British were able to defeat the Muslim rulers with the help of
industrial and scientific revolution and the modern warfare tactics. The
War of Independence (1857) was a disastrous blow to the Indian
Muslims who were blamed for the uprising by the British. The Hindus
were instrumental in putting the Muslims into the backwardness. This
was one of the outstanding motivations that paved the way to declare the
separate identity of nationalism, the Muslim nationalism. The Muslim
scholars aimed at changing the approach of teaching Islamic law and at
the same time, encouraging its implementation in a Muslim community.
Among them the most illustrious is Sir Syed Ahmad Khan (1817-98)
who aroused and led his community as well as one could wish. His
educational drive, the Ali-Garh movement, was found to be the most
effective way through which the Muslim gentry could socially mobilise
themselves under colonialism.
The Indian National Congress was established in 1885 to signify the
beginning of the Indian nationalist movement under British domination.
The Congress supported and helped the British government. Sir Syed
advised the Muslims not to join it because, he believed, the Muslims
were not in a position to get involved in anti-government activities.
Some scholars have argued that Sir Syed’s fear of Hindu domination
resulted in the development of the “Two Nations Theory” which was
later advanced by the All-India Muslim League which was formed in
1906 and demanded a separate state for Muslims in India. Sir Syed also

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said that it may be that modern education and non-political activities are
the solution for Muslims. The Ali-Garh movement offered the Muslims
educated leadership that could protect their interests in the western
political system.
Goal And Target
There was a clear Ideology that had been put in place before the
formation of this country. It has been acclaimed for some values, norms,
objectives, goals, institutions and structure. Ideology of Pakistan
presented coherent policy, plan of action and brought vigor and
enthusiasm for implementing these into operational.
There are following aims and objectives of the creation of
Pakistan:-
1. Establishment of a Free Society in Islam.
2. Protection from Communal Riots.
3. The social and political development of Muslims is an important
aspect of their lives that has been shaped by various factors.
4. Protection of Muslim Language.
5. Security of Two Nation Theory.
6. In order to escape the social embarrassment that she has been
experiencing time and again.
7. To become an economically developed Muslim country.
8. To be a united nation that will not bow to any force that comes against
it.
Differences Between Hindu and Muslim

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The main differences between Muslim and Hindus are that Muslims are
followers of the Islamic religion while Hindus are followers of the
Hinduism religion.
1. Religious Differences
The main distinctions between Muslims and Hindus lie in their religious
beliefs and practices. Muslims follow the teachings of Islam, which
emphasize the oneness of Allah and equality among individuals. They
revere God, The Holy Prophet (P. B. U. H), and the Quran, guiding their
way of life. On the other hand, Hindus believe in multiple deities and
adhere to a caste system with four classes, leading to a more limited
perspective on life.
2. Hindu Nationalism
Hindu nationalist movements in India have historically fueled tensions
between Hindus and Muslims. Groups like Shuddhi, Arya Samaj, and
Sangathan promoted exclusivity and overlooked the contributions of
Muslims to society, exacerbating communal divides. This disregard for
mutual respect and understanding worsened the political climate
between the two communities.
3. Cultural Differences
Cultural differences between Muslims and Hindus are evident in their
practices and traditions. Hindus follow customs like cremation and
worship of the 'Mother cow,' while Muslims bury their dead and do not
revere the same animal. Additionally, practices like 'sati' are unique to
Hindu culture, contrasting with Muslim beliefs. Interactions such as
marriage and dining are also restricted between the two groups.
4. Social Differences
Social disparities between Muslims and Hindus in the Indian
Subcontinent extend to various aspects of daily life. From clothing and
food choices to household items and architectural styles, the differences

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are apparent. Even greetings and gestures reflect the distinct social
norms of each community, highlighting the deep-rooted divisions
between them.
5.Economic Differences
The economic condition of Muslims was badly affected after 1857 and
all the trade policies were formulated in a way that would harm the
Muslims. Muslims were marginalized from positions in Government
services, and their assets and landholdings were confiscated, contrasting
with the preferential treatment afforded to Hindus in economic matters.
6. Educational Differences
The Hindus had progressed in the educational front because they were
quick and ready to accept the English education. Whereas Muslims did
not get modern education that greatly influenced their economic status.
7. Political conflicts
It is the political rivalry between Hindus and Muslims that has
contributed to the growth and emergence of Two Nation Theory.
Sir Syed Ahmed Khan And Two Nation Theory

Sir Syed Ahmed Khan, a prominent figure in nineteenth century British

India, was a Muslim pragmatist and philosopher. He served the East
India Company starting from 1838 and remained loyal to the British
Empire during the Indian Rebellion of 1857. After the rebellion, he
fearlessly criticized British policies in his booklet "The Causes of the
Indian Mutiny," highlighting their role in inciting the revolt.

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Recognizing the threat to the future of Muslims posed by their orthodox
beliefs, Sir Syed took the initiative to promote Western-style scientific
education. He established modern schools, journals, and a scientific
society for Muslims, including the Gulshan School in Muradabad in
1859, Victoria School in Ghazipur in 1863, and the Muhammadan
Anglo-Oriental College in 1875, which became the first Muslim
university in South Asia. Additionally, he organized the All India
Muhammadan Educational Conference in Aligarh, advocating for
modern education and political unity among Muslims. Sir Syed's
influence extended to Pakistan and Indian Muslims, leaving a lasting
legacy. Notably, he played a significant role in shaping the views of
other Muslim leaders such as Allama Iqbal and Jinnah.

Initially, Sir Syed believed in Indian Nationalism. However, due to the

Hindi-Urdu controversy in 1867, his faith in a united India was shaken,
leading him to support the two-nation theory. He emphasized that
Muslims were a separate nation with a powerful religion, and they
should demand a separate homeland. Sir Syed was the first Muslim
leader to refer to the Muslims of the Sub-continent as a "NATION." He
argued that India consisted of two nations, Hindus and Muslims, who
could not coexist peacefully. He believed that over time, the animosity
between these two nations would only grow, as they had distinct
religions, histories, and cultures .
Sir Syed Political view Can be Summed up as:-
1. According to Sir Syed, India was not just a country, but a vast
continent.
2. He believed that India was home to a diverse population, consisting of
various races and creeds.

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3. Sir Syed recognized Hindus and Muslims as the major nations in
India, based on their nationality, religion, customs, cultures, and
historical traditions.
4. He argued that it would be impossible and unimaginable for Hindus
and Muslims to share political power equally after the British left.
5. Sir Syed did not consider the Indian National Congress as a suitable
option for Muslims.
6. He believed that Muslims could not accept a Western-style
democratic system because, with a population ratio of one to four, they
feared being oppressed by Hindus.
7. Sir Syed warned that if the Congress continued to force the two
nations together, it would lead to a disastrous civil war.
Allama Iqbal and Two Nation Theory

Allama Iqbal, born on 9th November 1877 and passed away on 21st
April 1938, was a multifaceted individual. He was not only a poet,
philosopher, and politician but also an academic, barrister, and scholar.
He is widely known for his role in inspiring the Pakistan Movement and
is often referred to as the Spiritual Father of Pakistan. Iqbal holds an

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important place in Urdu literature, having produced literary works in
both Urdu and Persian.
Iqbal was not just a renowned poet but also a Muslim philosophical
thinker of his time. His famous Allahabad Address during the League's
December 1930 session advocated for the establishment of a Muslim
state in north-west India.
In different parts of South Asia and the Urdu-speaking community, Iqbal
is honored as the Shair-e-Mashriq, meaning "Poet of the East." He is
also known as Mufakkir-e-Pakistan, which means "The Thinker of
Pakistan," Musawar-e-Pakistan, and Hakeem-ul-Ummat.
Allama Iqbal was a man of great intellect, compassion, and vision. His
address at Allahabad remains a pivotal moment in history.
"In India, societal units are not defined by territory, unlike
European nations. India is a diverse land with various human
groups of different races, languages, and religions. Their
interactions are not solely based on a shared sense of race."
Allama Iqbal suggested the creation of a separate Muslim state under
certain circumstances. During his speech at the Allahabad session of the
Muslim League in 1930, he expressed his desire to see Punjab, North
West Frontier Province, Sindh, and Balochistan united as one state. He
believed that the Muslims in North West India should ultimately have
their own consolidated state, whether within or outside the British
Empire. Iqbal emphasized that Muslims were a distinct nation and
proposed dividing India into multiple states to ensure the enforcement of
Islamic Shariah. His nationalist ideology paved the way for the Muslims
to strive for an independent nation.
Muhammad Ali Jinnah And Two Nation Theory

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Muhammad Ali Jinnah, who was born on 25th December 1876 and died
on 11th September 1948, is one of the most important personalities in
the history of Pakistan. He was not only a lawyer and a politician but he
was also one of the most important personalities who contributed to the
creation of Pakistan. Jinnah was the leader of the All-India Muslim
League from 1913 until the creation of Pakistan on the 14th of August in
1947. He served as the first Governor-General of Pakistan after the
creation of Pakistan and held this position until his demise. Jinnah is
well regarded in Pakistan and is referred to as Quaid-i-Azam, which is
the Great Leader, and Baba-i-Qaum, which is the Father of the Nation.
Quaid-e-Azam strongly believed in the two nation theory, which later
became the foundation of Pakistan. He famously stated:
The Muslims have every right to create their own homeland. They
can use any methods to advance and safeguard their economic,
social, political, and cultural interests.
During the momentous gathering of the Muslim League in Lahore on
March 23, 1940, Quaid-e-Azam made a significant statement.
“The Muslims are not a minority. They are a nation in every sense.
According to all standards of International law, we are a nation.”
At Lahore In 1940 in his presidential address at the annual session of
Muslim League. Quaid Said:
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“India is not just a nation or a country; it is a Sub Continent made
up of various nationalities. The two major nations within India are
Hindus and Muslims. These two groups have distinct religions,
philosophies, social customs, and literature. Hindus and Muslims
typically do not intermarry or dine together, as they belong to
separate civilizations with conflicting ideas and conceptions. Their
perspectives on life and the world are quite different, as they draw
inspiration from different historical sources.”
Quaid-e-Azam and Millat-e-Islamia
Quaid believed that only Islam was the unifying force of the Muslim
Millat. He said:
“The bond that unites Muslims as one strong community, serving as
the foundation and guiding force for the Muslim Ummah, is the
Holy Quran.”
At Islamia College Quaid-e-Azam declared:
“We don't just want Pakistan to have a piece of land, but rather, we
envision it as a laboratory where we can explore and experiment
with Islamic principles”
In his message to the Frontier Muslim Students Federation, he said:
“Pakistan represents more than just freedom and independence; it
also embodies the Muslim ideology that we must protect as a
precious gift and treasure, hoping that others will embrace it with
us.
The statements above clearly demonstrate that Quaid-e-Azam aimed to
establish an Islamic system as a way of life. He firmly believed that this
was the primary goal of the Pakistan Movement.
Conclusion

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The Two-Nation Theory has played a significant role in the history of
India and Pakistan, shaping the course of events that led to the partition
of the two countries in 1947. Originally conceived as a means to bring
together Muslims and Hindus, it ultimately resulted in the creation of
separate nations. While it successfully established a homeland for
Muslims, it also left behind a legacy of communal tensions and
divisions.
In the present day, India and Pakistan grapple with issues related to
identity, citizenship, and inclusivity. The relevance of the Two-Nation
Theory in contemporary times is a subject of ongoing debate, with some
viewing it as a source of discord and others as a crucial milestone in the
region's past. Nevertheless, its evolution serves as a poignant reminder
of the complexities involved in nation-building and the necessity of
promoting inclusive societies where diverse communities can coexist
peacefully.
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