Understanding the Khudai Khidmatgar Movement and Its Legacy

What was the Khudai Khidmatgar Movement?

The Khudai Khidmatgar ("Servants of God") was a nonviolent resistance movement spearheaded by Khan Abdul Ghaffar Khan. It aimed to oppose British rule in India's Northwest Frontier Province, mobilizing thousands of Pashtuns to embrace nonviolent methods in their quest for independence.

Who founded the Khudai Khidmatgar Movement?

The movement was established by Khan Abdul Ghaffar Khan, who is also recognized as Badshah Khan or the "Frontier Gandhi." His close association with Mahatma Gandhi and adherence to nonviolent principles were pivotal in shaping the movement.

Why were members of the Khudai Khidmatgar Movement called "Red Shirts"?

Members of the Khudai Khidmatgar were commonly referred to as "Red Shirts" due to the distinctive red uniforms they donned, symbolizing their unity and commitment to the principles of nonviolent struggle.

What were the main activities of the Khudai Khidmatgar Movement?

Initially, the movement focused on organizing village improvement projects and establishing schools. However, it quickly integrated into the larger Indian Independence movement, enduring severe repression from British authorities while steadfastly committing to nonviolence.

How did the Khudai Khidmatgar Movement align with the Indian National Congress?

Khan Abdul Ghaffar Khan forged a formal alliance with the Indian National Congress (INC) and became a significant figure during the civil disobedience campaign led by the INC between 1930 and 1931. The movement played a crucial role in supporting the INC’s success in provincial elections in 1937.

What were the consequences of the British response to the Khudai Khidmatgar Movement?

The British government's reaction was marked by severe repression, including mass firings on unarmed crowds, torture, and the destruction of homes and villages. Despite these brutalities, the movement maintained its nonviolent resistance and significantly contributed to the Indian struggle for independence.

What happened to the Khudai Khidmatgar Movement after India's independence?

Following the partition of India and the creation of Pakistan in 1947, the influence of the movement diminished. Ghaffar Khan’s discontent with Pakistan led him to advocate for an autonomous Pakhtunistan. He faced multiple imprisonments by the Pakistani government, and the movement's legacy was largely suppressed until recent efforts aimed at reviving its memory.

These insights provide a concise overview of the Khudai Khidmatgar Movement, highlighting its foundation, activities, and vital role in the struggle for independence in British India, particularly within the Pashtun community.