The Two-Nation Theory and the Lahore Resolution of 1940 marked a turning point in Indian politics, laying the foundation for the eventual partition of India and the creation of Pakistan.
Two-Nation Theory
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Originally articulated by Sir Syed Ahmed Khan in the late 19th century, strengthened by Allama Iqbal’s 1930 Allahabad Address, and fully championed by Muhammad Ali Jinnah.
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It held that Hindus and Muslims were two separate nations, distinct in religion, culture, language, traditions, and way of life.
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Argued that a united India under majority rule would place Muslims at a disadvantage.
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Claimed that Muslims needed a separate homeland to preserve their political, cultural, and religious identity.
Lahore Resolution (23rd March 1940)
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Passed at the annual session of the Muslim League in Lahore, presided over by Muhammad Ali Jinnah.
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Declared that Muslims were not a minority but a separate nation.
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Proposed that Muslim-majority areas in the North-West (Punjab, Sind, NWFP, Baluchistan) and East (Bengal, Assam) should be grouped into “independent states.”
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Though the word “Pakistan” was not explicitly mentioned, it became known as the Pakistan Resolution.
Impact
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Provided the Muslim League with a clear political goal of establishing a separate state.
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Strengthened Jinnah’s position as the sole spokesman of Muslims in India.
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Widened the communal divide between Congress and the League, making reconciliation difficult.
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Marked the formal adoption of Pakistan as the League’s demand, which became a reality in 1947.
Key Takeaway
The Two-Nation Theory and the Lahore Resolution of 1940 redefined Indian politics. By asserting that Hindus and Muslims could not coexist under one nation, the Muslim League committed itself to the demand for Pakistan, setting India on the path toward partition.