Role of religion in politics: Impact on the civil and military society of Pakistan

Abstract

The beginnings of Islamic revivalism in South Asia were in reality attempts of the Muslim elite to regain their lost socio‐economic and political power which had been eroded as a consequence of British imperialism. Islam as a religion became an effective tool for social control and mobilisation. In the 20th century Syed Abul Ala Maududi, founder of the Jamaat‐i‐Islami, urged Muslims to struggle towards a worldwide revolution, transcending artificial boundaries and national territories to establish a worldwide ‘true Islamic state’. In keeping with these views, Maududi opposed the creation of Pakistan, but, after 1947, focussed on Islamisation of the country as an initial step towards a greater Islamic State. Fifty years of sustained efforts by the Jamaat have resulted in radicalisation of a large section of the Pakistani power structures by its cadre and sympathisers. Today, Pakistan is a hostage to the will of radical Muslim elements who pose a potent threat to the peace and stability of the region as well as to the existence of Pakistan as a sovereign state.