The Role of Ulema in the Political Struggle for Pakistan's Independence

Abstract

Ulama played a crucial role in the struggle for independence in British India. They had a significant role in various aspects of life, ranging from educating Muslims about society and culture to governing the nation. The involvement of Ulama in politics in British India commenced in 1803 and persisted until 1947. Darul Uloom-i-Deoband, like a religious institution, was established with the aim of assisting the Muslim community in India in regaining stability. The Ulama were the pioneers in their pursuit of liberation from the authority of the monarchy. The Ulama's perpetual and ceaseless conflict is what rendered this movement benevolent, vibrant, and all-encompassing. Undoubtedly, the historical narratives surrounding the Ulemas and religious personalities have become intricately intertwined with the history of the liberation movement and the Indo-Pak subcontinent, rendering it challenging to distinguish between the two.