Sir Syed Ahmed Khan | PSIR Optional for UPSC (Notes) PDF Download

Sir Syed Ahmed Khan

Aligarh 'Movement

• Sir Syed Ahmed Khan initiated the Aligarh movement to promote modern education and foster political awareness among Indian Muslims.
• This movement represented the first national awakening among Muslims and was supported by figures like Khwaja Altaf Hussain Ali,Maulvi Wazir Ahmed, and Maulvi Shibli Numami.
• The movement is called the 'Aligarh movement' because it originated in Aligarh.
• In 1875, Sir Syed Ahmed Khan established the Mohammedan Anglo Oriental (MAO) College in Aligarh, which later evolved into Aligarh University in 1890.
• The Aligarh movement aimed to spread Western education among Muslims while maintaining their Islamic beliefs.
• It also sought to introduce social reforms, such as condemning polygamy and promoting widow remarriage, which was allowed in Islam.
• The movement was based on a liberal interpretation of the Quran and aimed to harmonize Islam with modern liberal values.

Political Thought

Sir Syed Ahmed Khan's Political Thought: Two Phases

First Phase (Up to 1887):

• Hindu-Muslim Unity: Advocated for Hindu-Muslim unity, emphasizing shared experiences and challenges.
• Religious Neutrality: Believed that religion should not interfere with nationalism and advocated a separation between religious and political matters.
• Welfare for All: Worked for the welfare of both Hindus and Muslims as a member of the Viceroy's legislative council.
• Inclusiveness: Defined qaum to include both Hindus and Muslims, highlighting their shared governance and struggles.
• Collaboration with Hindus: Worked closely with Hindus in various societies and sought support from Hindu Rajas and Zamindars for M.A.O. College.
• Educational Reforms: Supported reforms in civil services and revived the British Association at Aligarh.

Second Phase (Post-1887):

• Shift in Perspective: Changed views to align more with imperialist thought, viewing British rule as emancipatory and democratic.
• Critique of Democracy: Opposed the application of Western democratic principles in India, arguing that a representative government would favor Hindus over Muslims.
• Diversity and Governance: Believed that India's diverse castes, religions, and races made Western-style democracy impractical.
• Opposition to Congress: Criticized the Congress for its demands for representative government, fearing it would harm Muslim interests.
• Rejection of Elections: Opposed the electoral process, believing it would lead to Muslim subjugation by Hindus.
• Influence of British Officials: His shift in views was influenced by British officials, particularly Theodore Beck, who aimed to counter the Congress's influence.
• Limited Influence: Despite his efforts, Sir Syed Ahmed Khan's influence on North Indian Muslims was limited, and his anti-Congress stance prevented broader impact.