PESHAWAR
March 23, 1940, stands as a monumental day in South Asian history made a turning point in the political awakening of Muslims in British India that ultimately lead to the creation of Pakistan.
On this historic day, the All India Muslim League passed the historic Lahore Resolution, later known as the Pakistan Resolution, which laid down a clear roadmap for a separate homeland for the Muslims of subcontinent.
Passed during the the All India Muslim League’s (AIML) annual session at Iqbal Park in Lahore, the resolution symbolized the collective resolve and unwavering determination of the Muslim community to assert their identity, rights, and freedom.
Professor Dr. Muhammad Naushad Khan, former Chairman of the Pakistan Studies Department at Islamia College Peshawar, described the resolution as the culmination of decades of political struggle and socio-religious marginalization.
“The adoption of the resolution was not just a political statement; it was the voice of a nation pushed to the wall,” he remarked.
“It represented the aspirations, sacrifices, and unwavering efforts of Muslims determined to secure a homeland where they could freely practice their religion, culture, and traditions.”
The resolution, championed by Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, demanded the formation of separate states for Muslims in the north-western and eastern zones of India served a revolutionary concept that gave birth to the idea of Pakistan.
While the resolution was adopted in Lahore, its spirit resonated deeply across the Subcontinent, particularly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (then NWFP).
Dr. Naushad underscored the region’s pivotal role in backing the Pakistan Movement, especially following Quaid e Azam’s visit to Peshawar after the resolution’s passage.
“The people of KP responded with unshakable support to the great Quaid in his mission for Pakistan. They decorated their homes, shops, Bazaars and vehicles with Muslim League flags and greeted the iconic leader with rose petals,” he said.
“Their great warmth and unity sent a powerful message of solidarity with the Pakistan movement.”
The great Quaid in 1945 visit to Peshawar became a historic moment when people from all 37 districts of the province came to see their legendary leader — a testament to the popularity of the League and the resonance of the idea of Pakistan.
He recalled a significant incident from the 1940s that captured the spirit of youth participation in the freedom struggle.
“The students of the Muslim Students Federation presented Quaid-e-Azam with Rs 8,000 for the movement and pledged to contribute 8,000 educated workers for the cause,” he said.
This historic gesture not only symbolized the commitment of students of KP but also highlighted the critical role educational institutions in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa played in shaping political consciousness.
The Muslim League went on to secure over 50 seats in the province, firmly establishing the region’s role in the national narrative of independence.
Islamia College Peshawar holds a unique place in the Quaid’s heart. He visited the college three times — in 1936, 1945, and finally in 1948 as the Governor General of Pakistan. Each visit was more than ceremonial; it was recognition of the institution’s contributions to the independence movement.
In his 1948 address to the students, the founder of Pakistan urged the youth to develop discipline, character, initiative, and academic excellence for the prosperity of Pakistan.
During this visit, he also expressed his vision for establishing a university in Peshawar. That dream materialized a year later with the founding of the University of Peshawar, which grew into a major center of knowledge for Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Central Asia.
The Quaid’s deep personal connection with Islamia College was immortalized in his will, where he named the college alongside Aligarh Muslim University and Sindh Madrassatul Islam as one of three institutions to inherit his property.
The Quaid Trust later contributed Rs 10.81 million to the college, funding the establishment of the Quaid-i-Azam College of Commerce, Jinnah College for Women, and other facilities.
As the nation reflects on the significance of Pakistan Resolution in creation of Pakistan each year, it is a reminder of the long journey that led to independence and the sacrifices made along the way.
“This day should not just be about remembering the past,” Dr. Naushad said. “It must be about renewing our commitment to work harder for Pakistan’s progress and prosperity.”
From the ports of Karachi to plains of Lahore and shores of Gwadar to the mountains of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, the echoes of the Pakistan Resolution continue to inspire generations. It remains not only a chapter of history but a living document of a people’s resolve to shape their own destiny.
