Confidential Correspondence Between Raja Ghazanfar Ali and M.A. Jinnah Regarding Punjab Muslim League Affairs

Sub title : The Sikandar-Jinnah Relationship and Working Committee Tensions

Subject: Punjab Muslim League | Jinnah-Sikandar Pact | Internal Party Conflict | Raja Ghazanfar Ali

Date of publication: 1940

Language: English

Page: 7 p.

Source: National Archives of Pakistan

Serial no: 27660

Keyword: M.A. Jinnah -- Raja Ghazanfar Ali -- Sir Sikandar Hayat Khan -- Jinnah-Sikandar Pact -- Muslim League Working Committee | Internal Conflict -- Punjab Politics -- Malik Barkat Ali -- War Committees

Abstract: A collection of confidential letters between Raja Ghazanfar Ali and M.A. Jinnah that reveals deep internal tensions within the All India Muslim League, particularly concerning the relationship with Sir Sikandar Hayat Khan, the Premier of Punjab. The correspondence begins with routine political updates but evolves into a serious confidential briefing from Ghazanfar Ali. He details the "personal attacks" and "ungenerous treatment" Sikandar faces from other Working Committee members, the resentment in Punjab over Malik Barkat Ali's appointment, and the growing sentiment that Sikandar should resign from the Committee. Jinnah's terse reply acknowledges the issues but expresses displeasure at Sikandar making public statements on all-India issues without consultation, highlighting the delicate balance Jinnah had to maintain between provincial leaders and the national party apparatus.

Description: This collection provides a rare, behind-the-scenes look at the significant internal strains within the All India Muslim League during a critical period. The letters expose the sharp divide between the pragmatic, governing wing of the League in Punjab (led by Sikandar) and the more oppositional, ideological members from other provinces on the Working Committee. Ghazanfar Ali acts as an intermediary, warning Jinnah that the constant criticism risks alienating Sikandar and his influential supporters in Punjab--the very "pivot of Pakistan." Jinnah's response shows his frustration with both sides: the Working Committee members for their attacks, and Sikandar for acting unilaterally. This correspondence is crucial for understanding the complex political management required to hold the diverse Muslim League coalition together under Jinnah's leadership. SCANNED BY: NATIONAL ARCHIVES OF PAKISTAN.

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