Understanding Muhammad Ali Jinnah and the Creation of Pakistan

There is a common narrative regarding the founding of Pakistan that often casts its creator, Muhammad Ali Jinnah, in a simplistic and almost messianic light. Academics and researchers delve deeper into his vision, actions, and the complex political landscape surrounding the creation of Pakistan. This deeper examination helps us understand Jinnah's true intentions and the challenges he faced during the formative years of the new nation.

Controversies and Realities

The professor emeritus of Political Science from Stockholm University cites a book that claims Jinnah's reaction to the creation of Pakistan. One of the more familiar claims attributed to Jinnah is, "Who told you that the Muslim League brought in Pakistan? I brought in Pakistan with my stenographer." This statement, while informative, often overlooks the intricate political maneuvering that went into founding Pakistan. Jinnah's quote implies that the creation of Pakistan was a much simpler affair than it actually was.

Correspondence and Estrangement

In a letter to Khan Abdul Ghaffar Khan, Jinnah speaks of his need for honest men to help build Pakistan, but this correspondence reveals a different picture. He wrote, "Khan Sahib, I know that you are a man of character and integrity. It is honest men like you whose help I need to build up Pakistan. As it is I am surrounded by thieves and scoundrels and through them I can do little for the poor Muslims who have suffered so much... I am a very much misunderstood man. I never wanted all this bloodshed. I want peace believe me so that I can do something for the masses... I am myself anxious to convert the League into a National League open to every loyal citizen of Pakistan. But I am being attacked by mad Mullahs and extremists who are out to create trouble for me." This letter paints a picture of Jinnah as a man grappling with internal opposition and the complexities of governance.

However, critical analysis reveals that Jinnah's words might not align with the reality. On August 22, 1947, the NWFP (North-West Frontier Province) ministry, headed by Dr. Khan Sahib (brother of Ghaffar Khan), was dismissed by Jinnah. This arbitrary action by Jinnah highlights the power dynamics and the difficulties he faced in unifying Pakistan. Despite his call for unity and national recognition of his goals, Jinnah's actions on the ground often contradicted his ideals.

Strains in Leadership and Unity

Interestingly, Ghaffar Khan, who was considered a trusted and respected figure, did not have a meeting with Jinnah after his letter. Khan remained estranged from Jinnah, and the relationship never materialized. The several statements made by Ghaffar Khan and the aforementioned letter are not found in Jinnah's collected works, suggesting that they may have been expunged by the Pakistani government. This raises questions about the official narrative and the historical truth.

Ajeet Jawed, the author in question, claims that these documents were disallowed, further complicating the understanding of Jinnah's true intentions and the challenges he faced. This absentee relationship between Jinnah and Ghaffar Khan, undeniably, complicates the narrative of Jinnah as a unifying figure in Pakistan's formation.

Excerpts from Jawed's work, along with the examination of official documents, provide a more nuanced view of Jinnah's leadership. It is crucial to recognize that Jinnah's creation of Pakistan involved not only lofty ideals but also political games, internal conflicts, and leadership challenges.

Excerpted with permission from 'Jinnah: His Successes, Failures and Role in History,' published by Penguin Random House.