DAMODARAM SANJIVAYYA

NATIONAL LAW UNIVERSITY

SABBAVARAM, VISAKHAPATNAM, A.P., INDIA

Role of Muslims in Indian Freedom Movement

Subject: Legal and Constitutional History

Faculty: Prof. Dr. Viswachandranath Madasu

Name of the Candidate: R. Charan Raju

Roll No: 23LLB095

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 Role of Muslims in Indian Freedom Movement

 Abstract:

The struggle for India’s independence witnessed involvement of many communities from
Tribals and Adivasis to Elite sections of the society like lawyers, teachers and many more.
Often the role of Muslims in Indian freedom struggle is overlooked and not gave much
importance. Early leaders like Maulana Abul Kalam Azad and Dr. Zakir Hussain played a key
role in mobilising and inspiring communities to fight against the oppressive rule. Also, the
female Muslim leaders like Bi Amma and Begum Hazrat Mahal were so active in many of the
protests and mass movements against the British Rule. Khilafat movement is one such
instance where both Hindus & Muslims collectively and unitedly fought to free India from
the claws of the Britishers. Within the Indian National Congress, figures like Rafi Ahmed
Kidwai ensured the Muslim perspective was integral to shaping policies and strategies for
independence. The painful and tragic partition of India posed many challenges to both
Muslims & Hindus to choose between their homeland or India and Pakistan. Though Muslim
leaders like Muhammad Ali Jinnah tried to break the unity between Hindus & Muslims, the
contributions of Muslims in the Indian Freedom struggle cannot be ignored and the legacy of
Muslim leaders after Independence still continued like Zakir Hussain who was the third
Indian President. In this project we will look into the contributions and role played by
Muslims and Muslim League in India’s Freedom struggle.

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Table of Contents

1. Introduction.......................................................................................................4

2. Early Muslims and the Freedom Movement....................................................7

3. Indian National Congress and Muslims............................................................9

4. From Khilafat Movement to the Partition......................................................12

5. Muslim women and other Activists................................................................17

6. Conclusion......................................................................................................20

7. References.......................................................................................................22

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1. Introduction

1.1 Background of entry of Islam in India

Islam's influence in South Asia precedes Muslim invasions, beginning in the early seventh
century with Arab traders visiting the Malabar region. They connected South Asia with
Southeast Asian ports, carrying with them Islamic beliefs. Arab merchants became powerful
cultural ambassadors, promoting the new faith wherever they went. Malik Bin Deenar built
the first Indian mosque in Kodungallur in 612 C.E., at the request of Cheraman Perumal,
during Prophet Muhammad's lifetime. The Mappilas of Malabar were among the first to
convert to Islam, combining Arab heritage with indigenous converts. In the eighth century,
Muhammad bin Qasim led Syrian Arabs to capture Sindh, expanding the Umayyad
Caliphate's power. In the 10th century, Mahmud of Ghazni's raids added Punjab to the
Ghaznavid Empire, and in the late 12th century, after a successful campaign, Muhammad of
Ghor established the Delhi Sultanate. These early interactions laid the groundwork for Islam's
long-term presence in India, shaping its cultural, religious, and social landscape.1

1.2 Background of Indian Freedom Movement

The Indian National Movement arose from a convergence of socioeconomic, political, and
cultural elements in the nineteenth century. Socio-religious reform movements led by Raja
Ram Mohan Roy and Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar abolished repressive customs and
promoted a feeling of community. The introduction of Western education unintentionally
fostered a class of Indians familiar with concepts of freedom and democracy. Vernacular
languages rose to prominence, aiding the spread of nationalist beliefs among the masses.
Economic exploitation during British control, as typified by policies that favoured colonisers
over Indian peasants, spurred discontent and resistance. The Revolt of 1857 was a watershed
moment, showcasing Indian discontent and fuelling a stronger desire for independence.
British initiatives unintentionally fueled nationalist feelings by building political unity,

1
Islam in India - New World Encyclopedia, https://www.newworldencyclopedia.org/entry/Islam_in_India (last
visited Mar 14, 2024).

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strengthening transport and communication networks, and encouraging a dynamic press.
Racial discrimination and inspiration from worldwide nationalist movements fueled Indian
ambitions for self-rule, culminating in the Indian National Movement's tenacious quest of
independence.2

1.3 Project Objectives

a. To explore the background of Muslims and the Indian Freedom Movement

b. To look into the contributions of early Muslim Leaders in the Movement

c. To analyse the role of Muslim League and important leaders in the Partition of India

d. To see the situation of Muslims and their relations with mainly Hindus during and after the
Indian Freedom Movement

1.4 Literature Review

Most of the previous authors who wrote about Muslims and the Indian Freedom Movement
had restricted their research to Important Muslim Leaders in the Movement and their role up-
to the Independence. In this project, we have discussed from the entry of Islam, invasions by
Muslim rulers, the background of the Indian Freedom Movement and the first leader to revolt
against British was actually a Muslim Nawab of Bengal, Siraj-ud-Daulah, the role of Khilafat
Movement and the Muslim League in the Freedom Movement and up-to the Partition and its
aftermath.

Rabia Shireen in her article, Contribution of Muslims to India’s Freedom Struggle wrote
extensively about the contributions of various unknown Muslim leaders and women leaders
in the Freedom Movement, there is no information about the role played by Khilafat

2
BYJU’S Exam Prep, History of India and Indian National Movement [UPSC Notes], BYJU’S EXAM PREP
(2023), https://byjusexamprep.com/upsc-exam/indian-national-movement-upsc-notes (last visited Mar 14,
2024).

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Movement and the Muslim League. In this project, role of Khilafat Movement and the
Muslim League is also discussed.

Colonel Balwan Singh Nagial in his article, Role of Muslim Leadership in the Freedom of
Our Country had discussed about the role played by Prominent Muslim leaders like Khal
Abdul Gaffar Khan, Maulana Abul Kalam Azad, Mohammad Iqbal etc. In this project we
have also covered about the role of Prominent Muslim Women leaders and their contribution
to the Freedom Struggle.

Shahid H. Raja in his article, Khilafat Movement: Context, Course and Consequences has
only discussed about the Khilafat Movement, but in this project we also have discussed about
its relation with the Non co-operation movement and their collective role in the Freedom
Movement.

Mushirul Hasan in his article, Adjustment and Accommodation: Indian Muslims after
Partition had discussed only about the Partition of India and its effect on the Muslims, but in
this project we have discussed from the entry of Islam in India to the Partition and its
aftermath on the Muslims of India.

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2. Early Muslims and the Freedom Movement

2.1 Nawab Siraj-ud-Daulah and East India Company

Nawab Siraj-ud-Daulah, the ruler of Bengal, was a key figure in the early resistance to the
East India Company's expansionist plans. Siraj-ud-Daulah fought against British forces
headed by Robert Clive at the Battle of Plassey (1757). Despite having a numerically stronger
force, Siraj-ud-Daulah was betrayed from inside his own ranks, resulting in a crushing defeat.
His opposition to the East India Company's attempts to consolidate authority over Bengal
exemplifies early Muslim resistance to colonial rule. Siraj-ud-Daulah's defiance of the British
is a symbol of Muslim resistance to colonial oppression, motivating subsequent generations
in their fight for independence.3

2.2 Muslim Rulers and Early Revolts

Several Muslim monarchs in India fought British colonial control with early revolts and
uprisings. Leaders such as Tipu Sultan of Mysore and Hyder Ali Khan were vehemently
opposed to British expansion in southern India. Tipu Sultan's opposition to the British during
the Anglo-Mysore Wars demonstrates Muslim monarchs' commitment to protect their
domains from outside control. Similarly, leaders such as Nawab Wajid Ali Shah of Awadh
and Bahadur Shah II, the last Mughal emperor, took part in resistance activities against
British conquest and meddling in their territories. These early revolts highlight the various
methods in which Muslim monarchs actively rejected colonialism and asserted their
sovereignty.4

2.3 Revolt of 1857 and Muslims

3
Rabia Shireen, Contribution Of Muslims To India’s Freedom Struggle, THE COGNATE (Aug. 15, 2022),
https://thecognate.com/contribution-of-muslims-to-indias-freedom-struggle/ (last visited Mar 14, 2024).

4
Id.

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The Revolt of 1857, commonly referred to as India's First War of Independence, saw strong
Muslim participation and leadership, exemplifying their steadfast resistance to British
colonial control. Hindus and Muslims joined forces to liberate India from British rule, led by
the last Mughal emperor, Bahadur Shah Zafar. Muslim troops, scholars, and leaders
organised and led the insurrection, exemplifying the spirit of religious unity and cultural
variety.

Moulavi Ahmadullah Shah, known as the 'Lighthouse of Rebellion' in Awadh, became a key
role in the rebellion, spearheading the onslaught against British forces in Faizabad. His
unwavering dedication to the cause of freedom encouraged millions to join the insurrection,
which challenged British dominance for nearly a year. Ahmadullah Shah, alongside stalwarts
such as Nana Sahib and Kunwar Singh, represented Muslims' resilience and determination in
the campaign for freedom.

However, the British responded to the revolution with ruthless reprisals, focusing on the
Muslim community because of their significant role in the uprising. Thousands of ulema were
killed, and Muslims were forced evicted from their homes, subjected to terrible prejudice and
dispossession. Despite the catastrophic effects, Muslims continued to resist colonial
oppression, exhibiting steadfast fortitude and sacrifice in the quest for India's independence.

The Revolt of 1857 demonstrates the lasting legacy of Muslim contributions to India's
freedom movement. Muslims from all walks of life, from royalty to ordinary citizens, made
enormous sacrifices in the pursuit of independence. Their tenacity and togetherness in the
face of hardship highlight Muslims' vital role in moulding Indian history, as well as their
unwavering dedication to the ideals of freedom and justice.

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3. Indian National Congress and Muslims

3.1 Early Muslim Leaders in INC5

Badruddin Tyabji (1844-1906) was an early Muslim Leader in the INC and the first Muslim
President of the INC’s third session in Madras, 1887. He made numerous contributions to the
Indian National Movement and played an active role in early INC. Here are some
contributions of Tyabji:

1. Secularism Promotion: Tyabji played a key role in raising Muslim secular political
consciousness. He believed in the concept of a united India and strove to promote
cooperation among various religious communities. Despite being a Muslim leader, he
promoted national unity rather than the divisive Two-Nation idea, which sought to establish a
distinct Muslim state.

2. Advocacy for Education and Social change: Tyabji understood the value of education and
social change in furthering the interests of Muslims and Indians in general. He battled against
habits such as 'Purdah' and backed projects for modern education, including sending his
daughters overseas to study. He believed that political growth would be pointless without
intellectual advancement among the public.

3. Influence in the INC: Tyabji's intellectual and personal distinctiveness allowed him to
wield significant power within the Indian National Congress. He was not only a key figure in
the Congress's deliberations, but he also helped shape the country's character. His president of
the INC session at Madras in 1887 demonstrated his leadership and influence in the
organisation.

5
Indian National Congress, INDIAN NATIONAL CONGRESS, https://inc.in (last visited Mar 15, 2024).

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4. Advocacy for Justice and Impartiality: As a judge, Tyabji displayed his dedication to
justice and impartiality. He was recognised for his bravery in providing bail to nationalist
leaders such as Tilak and for chastising those who disparaged the Indian National Congress
and Indian culture. His actions indicated his commitment to maintaining the principles of
fairness and equality before the law.
5. Community Bridge: Tyabji's upbringing and attitude allowed him to act as a liaison
between various Indian communities. He was widely respected and supported by Hindus,
Parsis, and Muslims alike. His ability to rally non-Muslim support for nationalist goals was
impressive, and it helped to the overall cohesiveness of the Indian nationalist movement.

3.2 Contributions of prominent Muslim leaders in the Freedom

Movement6
Maulana Abul Kalam Azad was a notable Islamic scholar and leader in the Indian National
Congress. Azad's efforts were multifaceted, including calling for Hindu-Muslim harmony and
promoting solidarity among all communities for India's freedom. As President of the Indian
National Congress, Azad led and rallied support for the nationalist struggle. He strongly
opposed partition and advocated for a united India where people of all religions might coexist
together. Azad's efforts to promote education, particularly the development of institutions
such as Jamia Millia Islamia, helped to empower Indian intellectuals.

Khan Abdul Ghaffar Khan, known as the "Frontier Gandhi," was a Pashtun leader who
promoted nonviolence and social reform. Ghaffar Khan formed the Khudai Khidmatgar
("Servants of God") movement to promote nonviolent resistance to British authority. He
mobilised the public in the North-West Frontier Province (now Khyber Pakhtunkhwa) and
was instrumental in organising protests and civil disobedience movements. Ghaffar Khan
emphasised Hindu-Muslim harmony and opposed partition, seeing it as harmful to India's
diverse culture. Despite being repressed by colonial authority, Ghaffar Khan remained
devoted to his beliefs of nonviolence and social justice.

6
Colonel Balwan Singh Nagial, Role of Muslim Leadership in the Freedom of Our Country, THE TIMES OF INDIA,
https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/blogs/col-nagial/role-of-muslim-leadership-in-the-freedom-of-our-
country/ (last visited Mar 17, 2024).

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Muhammad Barkatullah, or "The Prince of Khairpur," was a revolutionary and nationalist
leader. Barkatullah's contributions include advocating for Indian independence in Europe and
the US, organising and supporting revolutionary activities against British rule, and raising
awareness about the nationalist cause.

Mohammad Iqbal, a poet, philosopher, and statesman, inspired Muslims to seek

independence. Iqbal's contributions include stirring nationalist sentiments among Muslims
and emphasising the importance of self-determination and unity. He is often associated with
the idea of a separate Muslim state (later Pakistan), but also envisions Muslims and Hindus
living in harmony within a united India. His philosophical thoughts and poetic expressions
served as intellectual inspiration for the nationalist cause, influencing the thinking of many
Indians. Saare Jahan Se Achcha was written by him.

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4. From Khilafat Movement to the Partition

4.1 Khilafat Movement and its role in the Freedom Struggle7

The Khilafat Movement emerged as a watershed moment in India's war for independence,
catalysing Muslim participation and changing the subcontinent's political environment. The
movement, which began in response to the Turkish War of Independence and fears over the
destiny of the Ottoman Caliphate, was led by Muslim leaders such as Mohammad Ali and
Maulana Shaukat Ali. The All-India Khilafat Committee, established in 1920, sought to
protect the caliphate and rally Indian Muslims behind a common goal.

The Khilafat Movement's central goal was to achieve a number of objectives. The most
important was the preservation of the Caliphate, which had great religious and emotional
significance for Muslims all across the world. Also, the movement aimed to secure control
over the holy sites that are deemed to be sacred by the Muslims and maintain the integrity of
the Ottoman Empire.

The alliance formed by Khilafat leaders and the Indian National Congress, led by Mahatma
Gandhi, was a watershed moment. Gandhi saw the Khilafat Movement as an opportunity to
bring Hindus and Muslims together against British colonial rule, envisioning a unified
struggle for Khilafat and Swaraj (self-government). This alliance represented unparalleled
Hindu-Muslim cooperation and highlighted the power of collective action in combating
colonial oppression.

The Khilafat Movement developed an unbreakable relationship with the larger non-
cooperation movement, which Gandhi promoted as a form of peaceful civil disobedience
against British authority. Khilafat activists were instrumental in mobilising widespread
support for the non-cooperation campaign, demanding boycotts of British institutions and

7
Shahid H. Raja, Khilafat Movement: Context, Course and Consequences, MEDIUM (Aug. 28, 2023),
https://shahidhraja.medium.com/khilafat-movement-context-course-consequences-a5d03c6a2f4c (last visited
Mar 16, 2024).

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goods. The movement drew significant support from people of all faiths, with Hindus and
Muslims banding together to fight colonialism.
However, despite its initial enthusiasm and lofty goals, the Khilafat Movement eventually
encountered significant problems and constraints. Unrealistic aims, organisational flaws, and
a limited community base hampered its efficacy. The movement's split, with leaders siding
with numerous political groupings, diminished its coherence and impact.

The movement's eventual demise came with the dissolution of the Ottoman Caliphate in 1924
by the new regime of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk. With the central cause of the movement
rendered moot, its momentum waned, and its influence diminished.

Despite its shortcomings, the Khilafat Movement left a profound legacy that reverberated
throughout India's struggle for independence. It marked a significant milestone in the
country's political evolution, showcasing the power of mass mobilization and collective
action. The movement's alliance with Congress underscored the potential for Hindu-Muslim
unity in the fight against colonial rule, challenging divisive communal narratives.

Furthermore, the Khilafat Movement was a catalyst for the rise of Indian Muslim leadership
and political consciousness. It gave Muslims the opportunity to actively participate in
national politics and proclaim their rights and ambitions. The movement's legacy created the
framework for the Pakistan Movement, which contributed to the eventual partition of the
subcontinent and the establishment of Pakistan.

In essence, the Khilafat Movement represented the junction of religious fervour and a
nationalist interest in India's freedom war. While its immediate goals were not met, its impact
lasted well beyond its time, changing the shape of Indian politics and society for decades
afterward.

4.2 Muslim League and the INC8

8
Muslim League, NEVER SUCH INNOCENCE, https://www.neversuchinnocence.com/muslim-league-partition-of-
british-india (last visited Mar 16, 2024).

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The Muslim League was established in 1906 as a political body separate from the Indian
National Congress (INC) to promote the concerns of Indian Muslims in a primarily Hindu-
majority country. In 1916, Muhammad Ali Jinnah, a member of both Congress and the
League, was elected president, demonstrating the two parties' early cooperation. Their
cooperation, however, ran into difficulties when the League asserted its distinct character and
goals.

After World War I, the League first joined Congress in campaigning for Home Rule inside
the British Empire, influenced by comparable movements in other dominions such as Canada
and Australia. Their alliance, however, began to fracture with the advent of Gandhi's non-
cooperation movement, which the League saw as very radical. This divergence led to the
resignation of Jinnah from the Congress in 1920.

The League's primary objective was to protect the rights of Muslims in an independent India,
fearing Hindu dominance. In the late 1920s and early 1930s, Jinnah used his 14 principles to
voice Muslim complaints, arguing for federalism and greater Muslim participation in
government.

The Government of India Act of 1935 established elections and limited self-government in
Indian provinces, but Congress' success in the 1937 elections marginalised the League.
Despite Jinnah's efforts to reach a power-sharing agreement, Congress' rejection further
isolated the League from the mainstream nationalist movement.

4.3 Muslim League and Partition9

Jinnah rose to prominence as the leader of the Muslim League, serving as the major architect
of the demand for a distinct Muslim state known as Pakistan. He proposed the "two-nation
theory," claiming that Hindus and Muslims were distinct countries with irreconcilable
divisions that required separate political bodies to protect their interests.

9
Pakistan - Partition, Independence, 1947 | Britannica, https://www.britannica.com/place/Pakistan/The-Muslim-
League-and-Mohammed-Ali-Jinnah (last visited Mar 16, 2024).

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The League's call for Pakistan became stronger over time, spurred by rising religious tensions
and the failure of efforts to find common ground between Hindus and Muslims within an
undivided India. The Lahore Resolution of 1940, which advocated for the establishment of
independent Muslim-majority governments, was a watershed moment in the League's
partition campaign.

During World War II, although the Indian National Congress pressed for quick independence
from British rule, the Muslim League took a more cautious approach, emphasising the
importance of Muslim protections in any future political structure. Jinnah's emphasis on the
"two-nation theory" and the demand for Pakistan gained support as the British government
faced rising pressure for decolonization.

As sectarian violence worsened, India's split became imminent, and negotiations between
Congress and the Muslim League failed to create a credible alternative to partition. Faced
with the risk of civil disturbance and unable to satisfy Hindu and Muslim demands, the
British administration eventually agreed to the partition proposal suggested by the
Mountbatten proposal.

Pakistan came into existence as a separate Muslim-majority state on August 14-15, 1947,
marking the end of the Muslim League's quest for self-determination and the realisation of
Jinnah's goal of a Muslim homeland in South Asia.

4.4 Impact of Partition on Indian Muslims10

After India was partitioned in 1947, Indian Muslims struggled to adjust to their new
environment. Important Muslim figures, including Abul Kalam Azad, have expressed worry
about the impact of partition on Muslims in India. The divide made many Muslims feel
abandoned, particularly in League strongholds such as Uttar Pradesh and Bihar. The loss of
professional classes, combined with the outflow to Pakistan, intensified the issues that Indian

10
Mushirul Hasan, Adjustment and Accommodation: Indian Muslims after Partition, 18 SOCIAL SCIENTIST 48
(1990).

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Muslims faced. The diversity and divides among the Indian Muslim community made it
difficult for them to come together and pursue shared goals after independence. Leaders such
as Nehru shaped Indian nationalism and served as a symbol of unification among the divided
Muslim political organisations. The fate of Indian Muslims had to be redefined within certain
limitations, with the state playing a crucial role in shaping their identity and future. Overall,
the time following partition saw Indian Muslims struggling with the repercussions of the
divide and finding their place in the new India, led by luminaries such as Nehru and Azad.

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5. Muslim women and other Activists

5.1 Prominent Women Muslim Leaders11

Muslim women made substantial contributions to the Indian Freedom Movement, but they
were frequently overlooked by male leaders' prominence. These unsung heroes were
instrumental in many facets of the battle, ranging from armed insurrection to political
advocacy and the fostering of communal harmony. The following are some significant
examples:

Begum Hazrat Mahal, she rose to prominence as a leader of the 1857 revolt. She displayed
extraordinary courage by fighting in battle against the British East India Company while
leading the insurrection. Begum Hazrat Mahal's leadership was essential in persuading people
to oppose British control.

Abadi Bano Begum (Bi Amma), despite being completely illiterate, Bi Amma was
instrumental in pushing women to participate in the liberation fight. She spoke at political
rallies and promoted the idea of Hindu-Muslim harmony. Bi Amma's influence extended to
her sons, Muhammad Ali Jauhar and Shaukat Ali, both of whom rose to prominence as
leaders.

Amjadi Begum, Muhammad Ali Jauhar's wife and Bi Amma's daughter-in-law, Amjadi
Begum, demonstrated amazing fortitude and resilience. Mahatma Gandhi admired her as a
brave woman who backed her husband's efforts for independence.

Asghari Begum, despite her age, Asghari Begum actively engaged in the 1857 rebellion
against British rule in modern-day Uttar Pradesh. Her bravery in fighting colonial forces
typifies the spirit of resistance among Muslim women at the time.

Habiba, another brave Muslim woman who fought the British in Muzaffarnagar during the

11
Shireen, supra note 3.

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1857 rebellion. Despite being apprehended and eventually executed, Habiba's defiance
represents the sacrifices made by innumerable women in the fight for independence.

5.2 Unsung Muslim Heroes in the Movement12

The Indian Freedom Movement saw the participation of countless unsung Muslim heroes,
whose efforts are frequently forgotten in conventional accounts. These people played critical
roles in many facets of the battle, exhibiting courage, resilience, and steadfast dedication to
the cause of independence. Here are some of the unheralded heroes:

Moulavi Ahmadullah Shah, known as the 'Lighthouse of Rebellion' in Awadh, organised

and led the First Indian Freedom Struggle in 1857. He played an important role in liberating
Faizabad from British occupation for about a year, demonstrating excellent leadership and
strategic thinking.

Shaheed Ashfaqulla Khan, at the age of 27, Ashfaqulla Khan became the first Muslim to be
executed for conspiring against the British Raj in 1927. His unrelenting dedication to the
cause of freedom, combined with his indomitable spirit, earned him the title of martyr and
legend among the people.

Zain-ul Abideen Hasan, a Muslim man named Zain-ul Abideen Hasan created the patriotic
phrase "Jai Hind," which was eventually adopted by Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose. Despite
his significant contribution to Indian nationalism, his role in popularising this slogan is
largely unknown.

Surayya Tyabji, although Pingali Venkayya is credited with inventing the national flag,
Surayya Tyabji, a Muslim lady, finalised its current design. Her creative input helped shape
the famous symbol of India's freedom and national identity.

Thousands of nameless Muslim fighters: In addition to these individuals, thousands of

Muslim men and women fought valiantly on the streets against British colonial control. Their

12
Id.

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sacrifices, courage, and determination were critical in the larger war for independence.

These unsung Muslim warriors represent the variety and unity of India's liberation
movement. Their efforts, while frequently overlooked, remain essential to the complex fabric
of India's struggle for independence.

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6. Conclusion

6.1 Key Findings

a. Early Muslim Resistance: Muslims in India shown resistance to British colonisation from
the very first encounter. Figures such as Nawab Siraj-ud-Daulah and Tipu Sultan opposed
British expansion, establishing a pattern for Muslim resistance to colonial control.

b. Active Participation in Revolts: Muslims played important roles in key moments of

resistance, such as the Revolt of 1857. Leaders such as Moulavi Ahmadullah Shah exhibited
courage and leadership by fighting British control.

c. Muslim Leadership in the Indian National Congress: Despite hurdles, Muslim leaders
such as Badruddin Tyabji and Maulana Abul Kalam Azad were key figures in the Indian
National Congress, fighting for Hindu-Muslim unity and national independence.

d. The Khilafat Movement and Hindu-Muslim Unity: The Khilafat Movement emphasised
the possibility of Hindu-Muslim unity in the battle against British rule. Leaders such as
Gandhi and Muhammad Ali formed partnerships, emphasising the value of communal unity
in the freedom struggle.

e. The Muslim League and Partition: Fears of Hindu dominance in an independent India
drove the Muslim League, led by Muhammad Ali Jinnah, to argue for the establishment of
Pakistan. The split constituted a watershed moment in Indian history, having long-term
consequences for Muslims.

f. Women's Contribution: Muslim women played critical roles in all sectors of the
independence movement, from military resistance to political advocacy. Figures such as
Begum Hazrat Mahal and Bi Amma demonstrated courage and leadership in the face of

Page | 20
tyranny.
g. Unsung Heroes: Many unidentified Muslim individuals contributed significantly to the
independence fight but are frequently disregarded in conventional narratives. Their sacrifices
and dedication are still vital to India's quest for freedom.

6.2 Overall Summary

The research project investigates Muslims' diverse role in India's freedom struggle, focusing
on their contributions, challenges, and legacy. Muslims played critical roles in defining
India's route to independence, from early resistance to British colonialism to active
engagement in political activities and upheavals.

Leaders such as Maulana Abul Kalam Azad and Muhammad Ali Jinnah traversed difficult
political environments while pushing for Muslims' rights and interests within the larger
context of national independence. The Khilafat Movement highlighted the possibility for
Hindu-Muslim solidarity in the battle against colonial control, but India's division was a
divisive event in Indian history.

Muslim women, who are sometimes forgotten in historical chronicles, played important roles
in numerous elements of the liberation struggle, exhibiting fortitude and resilience in the face
of adversity. Furthermore, numerous unidentified Muslim individuals made great sacrifices,
contributing to the larger war for independence.

Despite problems and conflicts, the legacy of Muslim contributions to India's freedom
movement lives on, reminding us of the country's diverse and interrelated struggle for
independence. Recognising and honouring Muslims' contributions to the liberation movement
helps us comprehend India's complex history and the everlasting spirit of unity and resilience
among its people.

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7. References

1. Islam in India - New World Encyclopedia,

https://www.newworldencyclopedia.org/entry/Islam_in_India (last visited Mar 14, 2024).

2. BYJU’S Exam Prep, History of India and Indian National Movement [UPSC Notes],
BYJU’S EXAM PREP (2023), https://byjusexamprep.com/upsc-exam/indian-national-
movement-upsc-notes (last visited Mar 14, 2024).

3. Rabia Shireen, Contribution Of Muslims To India’s Freedom Struggle, THE COGNATE

(Aug. 15, 2022), https://thecognate.com/contribution-of-muslims-to-indias-freedom-struggle/
(last visited Mar 14, 2024).

4. Indian National Congress, INDIAN NATIONAL CONGRESS, https://inc.in (last visited

Mar 15, 2024).

5. Colonel Balwan Singh Nagial, Role of Muslim Leadership in the Freedom of Our Country,
THE TIMES OF INDIA, https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/blogs/col-nagial/role-of-
muslim-leadership-in-the-freedom-of-our-country/ (last visited Mar 17, 2024).

6. Shahid H. Raja, Khilafat Movement: Context, Course and Consequences, MEDIUM (Aug.
28, 2023), https://shahidhraja.medium.com/khilafat-movement-context-course-consequences-
a5d03c6a2f4c (last visited Mar 16, 2024).

Page | 22
7. Muslim League, NEVER SUCH INNOCENCE,
https://www.neversuchinnocence.com/muslim-league-partition-of-british-india (last visited
Mar 16, 2024).

8. Pakistan - Partition, Independence, 1947 | Britannica,

https://www.britannica.com/place/Pakistan/The-Muslim-League-and-Mohammed-Ali-Jinnah
(last visited Mar 16, 2024).

9. Mushirul Hasan, Adjustment and Accommodation: Indian Muslims after Partition, 18

SOCIAL SCIENTIST 48 (1990).

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