Correspondence between M.A. Jinnah and Nawabzada Rashid Ali Khan

Sub title : Managing the Lahore City Muslim League and Provincial Factionalism in Punjab

Subject: All India Muslim League | Punjab Politics | Lahore City Muslim League | Internal Factionalism

Date of publication: 1931

Language: English

Page: 123 p.

Source: National Archives of Pakistan

Serial no: 27658

Keyword: M.A. Jinnah -- Nawabzada Rashid Ali Khan -- Lahore City Muslim League -- Punjab Muslim League | Nawab of Mamdot -- Internal Factionalism -- Party Discipline -- Constituent Assembly -- Press Leaks

Abstract: An extensive collection of letters from Nawabzada Rashid Ali Khan, President of the Lahore City Muslim League, to M.A. Jinnah. The correspondence spans over a decade and reveals a complex relationship. Rashid Ali Khan is a fervent, active organizer, reporting on his efforts to strengthen the League in Punjab, often criticizing the provincial leadership (like the Nawab of Mamdot) for inaction. However, he frequently tests Jinnah's patience by prematurely announcing Jinnah's attendance at events in the press, leading to firm reprimands. The letters cover his initiatives, complaints of marginalization within the Provincial League, requests for meetings, and ultimately, a direct appeal to Jinnah for a seat in the Constituent Assembly in 1946, showcasing his persistent campaign for recognition and influence.

Description: This collection provides a detailed, long-term view of the challenges M.A. Jinnah faced in managing ambitious and sometimes overzealous provincial leaders. Nawabzada Rashid Ali Khan embodies the grassroots energy driving the League, but also the disciplinary problems that came with it. Jinnah's responses are a masterclass in leadership: he acknowledges and encourages productive work, but firmly and repeatedly checks unprofessional conduct, such as announcing his schedule without consent. The correspondence is crucial for understanding the micro-politics of the Muslim League in its most vital province, illustrating the constant balancing act Jinnah performed between nurturing local initiative and maintaining central authority and discipline in the pursuit of Pakistan. SCANNED BY: NATIONAL ARCHIVES OF PAKISTAN.

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