Minority Appeals and Memoranda from Late Colonial India

Sub title : Demands of Scheduled Castes Christians, Anglo-Burmans, Indian Christians, and Miscellaneous Notes

Subject: Scheduled Castes Christians Federation | Dominion Status for India | Anglo-Burman community in Burma

Date of publication: 1946

Language: English

Page: 12p.

Source: National Archives of Pakistan

Serial no: 28469

Keyword: Scheduled Castes Christians Federation 1947 -- Dominion Status India -- Anglo-Burman community | Indian Christian representation -- Pakistan Constituent Assembly | Minority petitions -- Chain prayer letter -- Post-colonial anxiety -- British protector role -- Guntur resolution

Abstract: This file assembles several distinct appeals and documents from minority communities in South Asia during the pivotal years of 1946–47. It includes a resolution from the Scheduled Castes Christians Federation (Guntur, May 1947) expressing fear of post-British chaos, advocating Dominion Status, and proposing a tripartite power-sharing model. Also present are a personal essay on Anglo-Burman identity and sacrifice in Burma, a chain prayer letter, a request for Indian Christian representation in Pakistan's Constituent Assembly, and a memorandum highlighting the loyalty and contributions of Indian Christians. The materials collectively voice the anxieties and demands of communities feeling marginalized in the rush toward independence and partition.

Description: This collection of seven pages presents a mosaic of minority voices from South Asia at the dawn of independence. The core document is a detailed resolution from the Scheduled Castes Christians Federation in Guntur (30 May 1947), expressing deep apprehension about communal violence after British withdrawal, advocating continued British presence or Dominion Status, and proposing a unique three-way division of power between Hindus, Muslims, and Scheduled Castes/Christians. Other items include a reflective piece on the future of Anglo-Burmans in Burma, a superstitious chain letter promising good fortune, a plea for reserved seats for Indian Christians in Pakistan's Constituent Assembly, and an excerpt arguing for Indian Christian inclusion in political negotiations. Together, they illustrate the fears, hopes, and strategic appeals of communities navigating the uncertain landscape of decolonization and partition. SCANNED BY: NATIONAL ARCHIVES OF PAKISTAN.

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