Allegations Against the Bombay Government: Memorandum on the 1946 Riots

Sub title : Regarding the Protection of Muslims, Holy Sites, and Police Conduct During Communal Violence

Subject: Bombay Riots of 1946 | Hindu-Muslim Violence | Communal Relations | Bombay Provincial Muslim League

Date of publication: 1946

Language: English

Page: 157 p.

Source: National Archives of Pakistan

Serial no: 28434

Keyword: Bombay Riots 1946 -- Muslim Grievances -- Police Injustice -- Communal Violence -- Holy Sites -- Mosque Destruction | Bombay Government -- Congress Government -- Hindu-Muslim Relations | Bombay Provincial Muslim League Relief Committee -- Allegations -- Memorandum

Abstract: This file is a detailed, point-by-point memorandum listing grave allegations against the Congress-led Bombay Government and the police force during the 1946 communal riots. It accuses the Home Minister and other officials of negligence and bias, citing specific failures to protect Muslim lives, holy sites (mosques and dargahs), and property. The document alleges systematic police partiality towards Hindus, unjust arrests of Muslims, inaction against inflammatory propaganda in the Hindu press, and a lack of impartial justice. It calls for the appointment of an impartial public commission to investigate the government's handling of the riots.

Description: This file presents a stark, first-hand account of the communal tensions and administrative failures during the intense Bombay riots of 1946, a critical period leading up to Partition. Written from the perspective of Muslim community representatives (likely affiliated with the Bombay Provincial Muslim League Relief Committee), it serves as a formal indictment of the state authorities. The document meticulously records incidents of violence, police inaction or complicity, and perceived anti-Muslim bias at the highest levels of the provincial government. It is a primary source reflecting the deep distrust between communities and the Muslim political leadership's view of the Congress administration, highlighting the charged atmosphere and the arguments over governance and justice that fueled the demand for Pakistan. SCANNED BY: NATIONAL ARCHIVES OF PAKISTAN.

Total Views: 19        Favorites : 0