Correspondence with Jehangir F. Koteval on Dominion Status and Indian Unity

Sub title : A Proposal for a New Political Initiative

Subject: Indian Constitutional Reform | Dominion Status | Muslim-Hindu Relations

Date of publication: 1941

Language: English

Page: 5 p.

Source: National Archives of Pakistan

Serial no: 27681

Keyword: M.A. Jinnah -- Jehangir F. Koteval -- Dominion Status | Indian Constitution -- Muslim-Hindu Unity -- All India Muslim League | Indian National Congress -- Churchill Declaration -- World War II and India -- Political Strategy

Abstract: This collection consists of a detailed letter from Jehangir F. Koteval to M.A. Jinnah, written in September 1941. Koteval analyzes the stalled political situation following British Prime Minister Churchill's reaffirmation of the August 1940 offer. He argues that the current demands for Independence and Pakistan are unattainable and proposes a new strategy: Jinnah should champion "Dominion Status here and now." The proposal includes a specific formula for a constitution-drafting body with equal Hindu and Muslim representation, aiming to break the political deadlock and unite the country. The file also includes Jinnah's brief, formal acknowledgment of receipt. The correspondence highlights an alternative political strategy presented to Jinnah during a critical period of the war and the independence movement.

Description: This file contains typed letter from Jehangir F. Koteval to Quaid-e-Azam M.A. Jinnah, followed by a one-page typed acknowledgment from Jinnah's office. Koteval's letter is a significant piece of political advocacy that urges Jinnah to pivot from the Pakistan demand to a unifying call for immediate Dominion Status, complete with a detailed constitutional formula. It provides insight into the political thought and alternative proposals circulating at the time, reflecting the frustrations and search for a breakthrough in the Indian political impasse during World War II. Jinnah's non-committal reply is also included, demonstrating the volume of such advice he received. SCANNED BY: NATIONAL ARCHIVES OF PAKISTAN.

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