Q. Whose name is associated with Muslim communalism that helped the British Government to follow the policy of ‘Divide and Rule’?
(a) Syed Ahmad Khan
(b) Rahimatullah Mohammed Sayani
(c) Badruddin Tyabji
(d) None of the above
Ans: (a) Syed Ahmad Khan
Explanation: The correct answer is (a) Syed Ahmad Khan.
Syed Ahmad Khan, a prominent Muslim reformer and educationist, is associated with Muslim communalism that helped the British Government to follow the policy of ‘Divide and Rule.’
Syed Ahmad Khan is considered one of the pioneers of the modern Muslim nationalist movement in India. While he initially advocated for Hindu-Muslim unity, his views shifted over time, and he became more inclined towards promoting separate identities and interests for the Muslim community.
Syed Ahmad Khan’s ideas and actions, particularly his emphasis on separate electorates and the promotion of Muslim political representation, contributed to the growth of Muslim communalism. His vision for the Muslim community was more aligned with collaboration with the British administration rather than seeking a unified nationalist movement against British rule.
The British colonial government often utilized the policy of ‘Divide and Rule,’ exploiting existing communal divisions to maintain control and undermine unified resistance to their rule. The promotion of separate communal identities and interests served their purpose in perpetuating their authority.
Therefore, the correct answer is (a) Syed Ahmad Khan as the individual associated with Muslim communalism that helped the British Government to follow the policy of ‘Divide and Rule.’
