Khawaja Razi Haider
Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah dedicated almost 44 of his 72 years to the advancement, prosperity, political dominance, and freedom of the Muslims in India. Throughout his journey, he faced staunch opposition from both allies and adversaries. Yet, his extraordinary leadership and unyielding political character established him as the undisputed great leader (Quaid e Azam) of Indian Muslims by 1937. Recognizing his remarkable qualities, Allama Iqbal, the poet of the East, wrote to Jinnah in June 1937, acknowledging that in the turbulent times looming over northwestern India and potentially the entire nation, Jinnah alone could provide the necessary leadership and guidance.
At this critical juncture in history, when the survival and security of Indian Muslims seemed bleak, Jinnah’s wisdom, foresight, unwavering determination, political acumen, and unparalleled leadership united the Muslims like a solid fortress. Within seven years, his advocacy for the creation of Pakistan culminated in its establishment on August 14, 1947, realizing a centuries-old dream of an independent Muslim state in the subcontinent. This monumental achievement was the direct result of Jinnah’s visionary leadership.
The year 1948 was the final year of Quaid-e-Azam’s life. Despite leading a highly active political career, his last decade, marked by increasing age and declining health, was especially tumultuous. Post-independence, the nascent state of Pakistan faced numerous challenges that Jinnah could not overlook or delegate. He devoted himself to formulating and implementing domestic and foreign policies, touring the country to address public issues, stabilizing the national economy, enhancing the educational system, defending the borders, and guiding the Constituent Assembly, government officials, and armed forces on their duties and the nation’s expectations.
Jinnah’s relentless efforts to address these issues were crucial for the survival of the newly-formed nation. Professor Sharif al Mujahid noted that an honest analysis of the circumstances reveals that Pakistan survived the immediate post-independence crises largely due to Jinnah’s leadership. The immense trust and profound admiration that the people of Pakistan had for him were instrumental in inspiring the nation to overcome the adversities they faced. He channeled the patriotic fervor ignited by independence towards constructive endeavors.
Quaid-e-Azam’s unparalleled leadership and political insight were recognized not only by Indian Muslims but also by leaders worldwide. British Prime Minister Clement Attlee, in his condolence message upon Jinnah’s death, described him as one of the world’s great leaders, whose deep commitment to his cause led to the creation of Pakistan.
Sir Stafford Cripps, a renowned British Parliament member, noted Jinnah’s integrity and honesty, which made conversations with him challenging due to his unwavering belief in his cause. Jinnah’s refined and courteous nature, combined with his readiness to stay up all night to argue his stance, were hallmarks of his character.
Sir Pethick-Lawrence, the Secretary of State for India, believed that Jinnah’s name would always be remembered in history as a leader who formed a great nation. U.S. President Harry Truman remarked that Muhammad Ali Jinnah was not only the realization of Pakistan’s dream but also the architect of a state and the father of one of the world’s largest nations. His commitment, diligence, and unparalleled leadership would continue to guide the people of Pakistan.
U.S. Secretary of State George Marshall highlighted Jinnah’s traits of integrity, honesty, sincerity, and indomitable determination, which were respected by both his political friends and foes. Jinnah’s organizational and political skills kept him prominently among the great statesmen of not only Asia but the world. The Chief Minister of Bombay, P.G. Kher, described Jinnah as a historic figure whose decision-making power, self-confidence, and unparalleled political acumen made him an enviable leader.
In 1917, Secretary of State for India Edwin Samuel Montagu expressed regret that Jinnah, a very ingenious man, had no role in the governance of his own country, India. In 1946-47, Sir Olaf Caroe, Governor of the North-West Frontier Province, observed that Muhammad Ali Jinnah was more than a politician, earning respect from everyone who knew him. His complete personality was admirable.
Ian Stephens, editor of The Statesman, in his book, described Quaid-e-Azam as a nation builder, stating that future historians would place Muhammad Ali Jinnah on par with Bismarck and Cavour. Professor Rushbrook Williams, a member of the editorial staff of The Times, London, reflected upon Jinnah’s passing, calling him a great leader who brought about a revolution in the history of the Muslims of the subcontinent.
Upon Quaid-e-Azam’s death, Sir Pethick-Lawrence remarked that while Gandhi was killed by an assassin, Jinnah sacrificed his life out of deep attachment and dedication to Pakistan. The London Times wrote that Jinnah was more than a leader; he was the head of a nation, even more so than the founder of the Islamic state he had established.
Quaid-e-Azam was undoubtedly the architect of modern India’s history, a historical figure whose parallel is hard to find in contemporary times. According to Sarojini Naidu, Jinnah was the most prominent and attractive personality of the modern era. Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah’s character remains an essential subject for social scientists, crucial for understanding modern India’s history and ensuring Pakistan’s progress and prosperity in line with his vision.
The author is the former director of Quaid-e-Azam Academy Karachi.
