The emerging of the Khilafat Movement

Question 1

Why did the British need Indian Muslims’ support during WWI, and what promise did they make?

Answer 1

• During WWI, the Turkish Empire sided with Germany against Britain, creating a dilemma for the British.
• They wanted Indian Muslims to fight in the war but knew Muslims would not support actions that could harm the Khalifa or dismantle his empire.
• To resolve this, the British promised to respect the Khalifa and maintain his empire.
• As a result, thousands of Muslims joined the British army.

Question 2

What were the main aims of the Khilafat Movement after WWI?

Answer 2

• After WWI, the Khilafat Movement aimed to Safeguard sacred Islamic sites, Protect the seat of the Khalifa, and Preserve Turkey’s boundaries.
• The movement sought to pressure the British to fulfill their WWI promise to protect Khalifa and his empire.

Question 3

What treaties after WWI alarmed Indian Muslims, and why?

Answer 3

• The Treaty of Versailles (1919) punished Germany and Austria with severe restrictions, including limited armies, heavy war indemnities, and territorial losses.
• Indian Muslims feared similar harsh treatment from the Ottoman Empire.
• The Treaty of Sèvres (1920), negotiated with Turkey, raised further concerns about dismantling the Ottoman Empire.
• These developments led to the emergence of the Khilafat Movement under leaders like the Ali brothers.

Question 4

How did British actions before and after WWI betray Indian Muslims?

Answer 4

• The Partition of Bengal (1905) was reversed in 1911, despite earlier promises, disappointing Muslims.
• Rivalry between Britain and Russia over Persia and Afghanistan ignored Muslim views in these regions.
• Post-WWI, British actions against the Ottoman Empire hurt Muslim religious sentiments, as they feared losing their community leader (the Khalifa).