Context
After a change in leadership in Pakistan, the new government is aiming to initiate a cautious and non-threatening relationship with India following a period of strained diplomacy. Pakistan has chosen to resume its National Day celebrations in New Delhi this year, marking the end of a four-year hiatus due to the Covid-19 crisis and strained relations between the two nations.
About Lahore Resolution, 1940
- The Lahore Resolution, adopted by the All-India Muslim League in 1940, called for an independent state for India’s Muslims without specifically mentioning ‘Pakistan.’
- On March 23rd, this resolution became Pakistan’s national day and it officially became the Islamic Republic of Pakistan on the same day in 1956.
- The Minar-e-Pakistan was built at the resolution’s site with these words inscribed at its base.
- When some Indian Muslims are attacking this write up because it is promoting a separate nationhood, others such as Abul Kalam Azad and Deoband ulema led by Husain Ahmad Madani were advocating for a united India.
Key Highlighted of Lahore Resolution
- For instance, the Lahore Resolution emphasised upon creation of independent states in those areas where Muslims formed the majority particularly North-Western and Eastern Zones of India.
- Furthermore, It also laid stress on safeguarding religious as well as cultural rights along with other matters pertaining to economy and politics for all Muslims including other minorities in India.
- The last minute demand was driven by increasing demands among Muslims within India seeking greater autonomy which were instigated by concerns about their political representation and protection of their rights.
- It came at a time of significant events, including the Khaksar tragedy and a significant speech by Muhammad Ali Jinnah, highlighting his leadership in the movement for a separate Muslim nation.
- The resolution was influenced by the Government of India Act, 1935, which gave Muslims separate electorates and sparked the push for Muslim self-governance.
Pakistan National Day in New Delhi
- The Pakistan National Day is celebrated at the Pakistan embassy in New Delhi with the attendance of foreign diplomats and Indian dignitaries.
- Including playing national anthems, speeches by Pakistan high commissioner and inviting guests for strengthening diplomatic relations.
- Pakistan National Day is usually observed around late March at the Pakistan embassy in New Delhi with foreign diplomats and Indian nationals as attendees.
- As a rule, a minister or minister of state is invited to be the chief guest while both countries’ national anthems are played followed by speeches from the High Commissioner of Pakistan and chief guest.
- This year’s national day celebration of Pakistan has been tentatively fixed on 28th March. It usually takes place around late March each year at the Pakistani embassy in New Delhi.
- Indian nationals are joined at this event by other country’s diplomats.
- Typically, it is a government official who serves as the main guest.
- The celebration includes playing national anthems and speeches from the High Commissioner of Pakistan and Chief Guest.
- This year, however, it has tentatively been set for 28th March.
Conclusion
The Lahore Resolution of 1940 was an important milestone in the formation of Pakistan, as it advocated for a separate state for the Muslim population in India. The celebration of Pakistan National Day in New Delhi serves as a diplomatic gesture in the midst of complicated relations between India and Pakistan.
Source: The Indian Express
UPSC Prelims Practice Questions
Q.Significance of Lahore Resolution (1940) of the Muslim League was
a. To cooperate with National Congress
b. To create a constitution for the Muslim League
c. To cooperate with the British
d. Pakistan resolution was taken
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