The Justification of the Two-Nation Theory in India: An Analytical Study in the Context of Islamic Traditions

ہندوستان میں دو قومی نظریہ کا جواز اسلامی روایات کے تناظر میں تجزیاتی مطالعہ

Abstract

India has long been a cradle of diverse civilizations, each contributing to the rich and intricate cultural tapestry of the subcontinent. Among these, the Hindu civilization emerged as a dominant fusion of various traditions. However, Islamic civilization, with its distinct religious, cultural, and social framework, has maintained a unique and independent identity throughout history. Unlike other civilizations that often assimilated into the broader socio-cultural landscape, Islamic civilization remained distinct due to its fundamental principles and values, making cultural integration with other traditions challenging.

Despite centuries of Muslim presence in the Indian subcontinent, their customs, traditions, and religious ethos remained separate from those of other communities. The concept of the Two-Nation Theory, which later played a crucial role in the partition of India, had its ideological roots in the historical consciousness of Indian Muslims. This study explores the unique identity of Islamic civilization and examines how its distinct characteristics have shaped the socio-political landscape of the region. Employing narrative and historical research methodologies, this research aims to critically analyze the factors that contributed to the persistence of Islamic identity and its implications for the Indian subcontinent. Furthermore, this study challenges the misconception that Muslims merely adhered to a colonial framework, highlighting instead the organic evolution of their identity within the broader historical context.