A Warning to M.A. Jinnah on Joint Electorates

Sub title : A Plea Against the Dangers of Joint Electorates

Subject: Muslim League Politics | Electoral Systems | Joint vs. Separate Electorates | Two-Nation Theory

Date of publication: 1938

Language: English

Page: 1 p.

Source: National Archives of Pakistan

Serial no: 27606

Keyword: M.A. Jinnah — Joint Electorates — Separate Electorates | Muslim Representation — Muslim League — Simla — 1938 | AKM Zakari — Political Warning — Two-Nation Theory.

Abstract: This is a brief but forceful private letter written to M.A. Jinnah from Simla on 17th May 1938. The author, Shrahwood Hwa, issues a stark warning, pleading with Jinnah "for God's sake" to never agree to joint electorates under any circumstances. The writer argues that accepting joint electorates would allow individuals like "Mr. AKM Zakari" to be elected as nominal representatives of Muslims, while in reality, they would act as "puppets in the pockets of the Hindus," thereby undermining genuine Muslim political interests and representation.

Description: This document is a passionate and urgent private communication that highlights a core political issue central to the All-India Muslim League's ideology in the late 1930s: the vehement opposition to joint electorates. The letter reflects the deep-seated fear among Muslim political groups that joint electorates would allow the Hindu majority to dominate and elect "puppet" Muslim candidates, effectively silencing authentic Muslim voices. The intensity of the language ("For God's sake") underscores the critical importance of this issue. This letter provides a stark, grassroots perspective on the political reasoning that would eventually solidify into the demand for a separate homeland for Muslims, based on the Two-Nation Theory. SCANNED BY: NATIONAL ARCHIVES OF PAKISTAN.

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