Correspondence between Raghib Ahsan and M.A. Jinnah

Sub title : Calcutta Muslim League Politics, Community Representation, and Strategic Proposals

Subject: Calcutta Muslim League Organization | Muslim Caste and Sect Representation | Muslim Press and Propaganda

Date of publication: 1938

Language: English

Page: 364 p.

Source: National Archives of Pakistan

Serial no: 27521

Keyword: M.A. Jinnah — Raghib Ahsan — Calcutta Muslim League | Muslim Caste System — Momins — Muslim Press — Star of India — Jaipal Singh — Tribal Representation — Partition of Bengal | Interim Government — Portfolio Allocation

Abstract: This extensive correspondence from Raghib Ahsan, Secretary of the Calcutta Muslim League, to M.A. Jinnah between 1938-1947 covers diverse aspects of Muslim politics in Bengal and at the national level. The documents address internal Muslim community dynamics including the representation of Momins (backward classes) and Shias, emphasizing the need for inclusive politics while opposing formal caste representation. Significant topics include proposals for an independent Muslim English daily newspaper, analysis of Bengal's political landscape, strategic suggestions for portfolio allocation in the interim government, and detailed partition plans including territorial calculations and the status of excluded areas.

Description: This remarkable collection provides a granular view of Muslim League politics at the provincial and local levels, revealing the complex social and political challenges faced by the organization. Raghib Ahsan emerges as a sophisticated political thinker who understood the nuances of Muslim society in India, particularly the delicate balance between Islamic ideals of brotherhood and the reality of social stratification. The documents show his persistent efforts to build a broad-based Muslim political movement while countering Congress influence. Particularly significant are his detailed memoranda on partition planning, which reveal the strategic thinking behind territorial demands and the consideration of tribal areas in the final settlement. The correspondence demonstrates how local Muslim League functionaries like Ahsan contributed to national policy formulation while managing day-to-day political challenges in Bengal. SCANNED BY: NATIONAL ARCHIVES OF PAKISTAN.

Total Views: 92        Favorites : 0