In the news

• Pakistan’s decision to resume its National Day (March 23) celebrations in New Delhi after a four-year gap due to the pandemic and strained bilateral relations reflects a significant diplomatic gesture.
• Let’s delve into the historical significance of Pakistan National Day, centered around the Lahore Resolution, and understand how it is observed in New Delhi.

Observance of Pakistan National Day in New Delhi

• Diplomatic Event: The Pakistan National Day is observed at the Pakistan embassy complex in New Delhi, typically attended by foreign diplomats and Indian dignitaries.
• Symbolic Gestures: The event features the playing of national anthems of both countries and addresses by the Pakistan high commissioner and invited guests, fostering diplomatic ties.

About the Lahore Resolution (1940)

• Historical Context: The Lahore Resolution was adopted by the All-India Muslim League during its session in Lahore from March 22 to March 24, 1940.
• Core Objective: It formally called for an independent state for India’s Muslims, laying the groundwork for the creation of Pakistan.
• Constitutional Transformation (1956): Pakistan officially adopted its first Constitution on March 23, coinciding with the Lahore Resolution, signifying the transition from the Dominion of Pakistan to the Islamic Republic of Pakistan.
• Symbolic Structure: The Minar-e-Pakistan, erected at the site of the Lahore Resolution, commemorates this historic event, with the resolution’s text inscribed at its base.

Key Elements of the Lahore Resolution

• Geographical Division: The resolution emphasized the formation of “Independent States” in regions where Muslims were in a majority, particularly in the North-Western and Eastern Zones of India.
• Safeguarding Minority Rights: It called for the protection of religious, cultural, economic, and political rights of Muslims and other minorities throughout India.

Historical Context and Lead-up to the Lahore Resolution

• Growing Dissent: The resolution reflected the culmination of growing demands for Muslim autonomy within India, amid concerns over representation and safeguarding of rights.
• Impactful Events: The session coincided with the Khaksar tragedy and featured a pivotal address by Muhammad Ali Jinnah, solidifying his leadership role in the movement for a separate Muslim state.
• Government of India Act, 1935: The Lahore Resolution emerged against the backdrop of the GoI Act, 1935, which granted separate electorates to Muslims and served as a catalyst for the demand for Muslim autonomy.

Try this PYQ from CSP 2012:

Q.The Lahore Session of the Indian National Congress (1929) is very important in history, because-

1. The Congress passed a resolution demanding complete independence
2. The rift between the extremists and moderates was resolved in that Session
3. A resolution was passed rejecting the two-nation theory in that Session

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 only

(b) 2 and 3

(c) 1 and 3

(d) None of the above

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