The Lucknow Pact 1916 | O Level Notes Pakistan Studies 2059

Background:
• When the Muslim League was formed, one of its major objectives was forming a friendly relationship with the British.
• The reversal of the Partition of Bengal changed that objective and decided to work with the National Congress to put pressure on the British government.
• In 1916, Muhammad Ali Jinnah persuaded the Muslim League and Congress to meet in Lucknow.
• In the Lucknow session, Jinnah represented the Muslim League and Mahajan represented congress.

Demands of the Lucknow Pact:
• The Congress admitted that Muslims have the right for a separate electorate for Provincial Legislative Councils.
• The Congress also agreed for Muslims to have one-third seats in the council.
• The Congress made a concession that if three-fourth of the community’s members did not give their support then no Act will be passed.
• Both parties also demanded the increase of seats of the Council.
• They demanded the autonomy of all provinces.
• They demanded the protection of the rights of minorities.

Importance of the Lucknow Pact:
• It brought the Muslim League and National Congress to work together.
• It made the Hindus accept for the first time that there should be separate electorates for Muslims.
• The Muslims realised that their chances of success will increase if they stand with Congress.
• It put pressure on Britain to make concessions for the Indians.
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