Rethinking Pakistan’s Founding Vision – OpEd

As Pakistan celebrates its 77th Independence Day, the country finds itself reflecting on the foundational ideals that led to its creation. Central among these is the Two-Nation Theory, a concept that was pivotal in the demand for a separate Muslim state during the twilight of British India. But in 2024, amidst the complex dynamics of a changing world and evolving national identity, the relevance of the Two-Nation Theory is being reconsidered, sparking debates across the political and social spectrum.

The Two-Nation Theory, articulated most prominently by Muhammad Ali Jinnah, the founder of Pakistan, posited that Muslims and Hindus were distinct nations, with their own customs, religion, and traditions, and therefore required separate states to ensure their rights and interests. This idea became the cornerstone of the demand for Pakistan, leading to the partition of India in 1947.

For decades, the theory was held up as the ideological bedrock of Pakistan, justifying the painful and often violent separation from India. It provided a unifying narrative for the nascent state, emphasizing the need for a homeland where Muslims could practice their religion and culture freely, without the fear of domination by a Hindu majority.

In contemporary Pakistan, the relevance of the Two-Nation Theory is being reevaluated, particularly in the context of the country’s internal challenges and its relationship with India. The rise of globalization, the influx of diverse cultural influences, and the complex nature of modern identity politics have prompted many to question whether the theory still holds the same significance.

Critics argue that the Two-Nation Theory has, over time, been used to foster a narrow interpretation of national identity, marginalizing religious and ethnic minorities within Pakistan. The ongoing struggles of communities such as the Hindus and Christians in Pakistan raise uncomfortable questions about the inclusivity of the state envisioned by Jinnah. Furthermore, the theory has been cited as a contributing factor to the strained relations with India, perpetuating a narrative of perpetual enmity between the two neighbors.

On the other hand, proponents of the theory contend that it remains a vital part of Pakistan’s identity, especially in light of rising Hindu nationalism in India. They argue that the growing marginalization of Muslims in India, exemplified by controversial policies like the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) and the revocation of Article 370 in Kashmir, vindicates the original rationale for Pakistan’s creation. In this view, the Two-Nation Theory is not only relevant but necessary to understand the ongoing struggles of Muslims in the subcontinent.

In 2024, the discourse around the Two-Nation Theory is also being shaped by the broader challenges facing Pakistan, including economic instability, political fragmentation, and security threats. Some scholars and political thinkers are calling for a reinterpretation of the theory, one that transcends religious identity and embraces a more inclusive, pluralistic vision of the nation.

This evolving perspective suggests that the theory’s emphasis on religious difference should not overshadow the need for national unity and cohesion. Instead, it could be reimagined as a framework for protecting the rights of all minorities in Pakistan, not just Muslims, and for fostering a sense of belonging among all citizens, regardless of their faith.

As Pakistan navigates its future, the relevance of the Two-Nation Theory will likely continue to be a subject of intense debate. The challenge lies in finding a balance between honoring the historical legacy of the nation’s founding principles and adapting to the realities of a diverse, modern society.

For many Pakistanis, the Independence Day celebrations are a moment to reflect on this complex legacy. It is a time to honor the sacrifices made for the nation’s creation while also considering how its foundational ideas can be reinterpreted to meet the needs of the 21st century. As the country moves forward, the Two-Nation Theory may no longer be a static, unchanging concept but a dynamic idea that evolves with the times, ensuring that Pakistan remains a place where all its citizens can thrive.