Let Us Not Repeat Mr. Jinnah’s Mistake

Undoubtedly, we Indians are the best in creating controversies. The recent incident at Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) is the best example of that. From nowhere, hundreds of students gathered in the campus to protest against the portrait of Pakistan founder MA Jinnah. For over 70 years, since India was divided into two, no one raised the issue why the portrait of a person who raised the demand of a homeland for Muslims should be at AMU? It seems suddenly few people have woken up from their slumber and are determined to rewrite history by removing the said portrait from the wall of AMU. For them, it may be a yardstick to prove their patriotism. But at the same time, they should be aware about the consequences of such demands. They should keep it in mind that it is neither a proof of their patriotism, nor it will make the nation stronger. Forget about the reactions of outside world, even the Indians, who still nourish the age-old tradition of tolerance, do not support this demand. Besides, the agitators should keep it in mind that history cannot be rewritten. It can’t be changed by force. Any attempt to rewrite history is bound to be counter-productive. But does it really bother those who raked up this controversy? Clearly, they are not aware. If they happened to be aware about the consequences of the demand that they raised, situation in Aligarh shouldn’t have come to such a point. Now internet services have been suspended in the city. The university authorities have declared stoppage of classes for a week. Moreover, the administration is apprehensive that communal clashes may occur any time as tensions are running high among two groups.

What will we achieve by removing the portrait of MA Jinnah? Counter-question can also be raised what have we achieved by keeping the portrait in its place for so many years? Answering both the questions are not easy because there will be points and counter-points. But one thing can be said without any fear of being trolled that it has shown the world that India shows no disrespect to anyone, even though the person may be responsible for the partition of the country. Can Pakistan boost such a claim? If the sub-continent is free today, it is because of the leadership of Mahatma Gandhi and also for many known and unknown freedom fighters. No one will find a single freedom fighter, who fought against the British regime for India or for Pakistan. It is true that we have failed to fulfil their dreams of an undivided India. We have portioned the country. But let us not separate our freedom fighters who gave their lives, stood against the oppressive occupiers with courage, conviction and determination. It is for their sacrifices we are free today. Don’t use or abuse their names keeping an eye on electoral politics. Treat them with utter respect and preserve their legacy to build a strong, powerful nation. It will be an insult to all those who fought for India’s Independence, if the present controversy snowballs in to a bigger one. Every effort should be nipped in the bud so that no one gains politically or otherwise from this controversy. Mr. Jinnah made a mistake by raising the demand of Pakistan. Let us not repeat the mistake by demanding the removal of his portrait from AMU.