 The Akali Dal came into prominence in Indian politics during the time of Non Cooperation Movement of 1919-1920. Like the Muslim League and Hindu Mahasabha, the Akalis represented a particular Indian community: the Sikhs. Besides its own struggle over the Gurudwaras this party also played an active role in Indian freedom struggle as well. The party had been under the leadership of Kartar Singh and Master Tara Singh. The Akalis formed Unionist Party which looked after the interests of cultivators i.e. Muslims and Hindus. Many Sikhs began an Akali movement to regain control over their Gurudwaras. These sacred places were being managed or mismanaged by corrupt Mahants who enjoyed the backing of the British government. After a prolonged and heroic campaign, the Sikhs recovered possession of their holy shrines.
While the major concern of Akali was religious it simultaneously played a significant political role as it stood as a voice of the Sikh community. Along with the Muslim League the Akalis were equally significant whose support was required for a successful freedom struggle. The party remained much significant during the Cripps Mission when the Muslim League demanded a separate nation on the basis of religion and community. The Akalis got alert of their position and vehemently opposed the division of the state of Punjab as that would mean division of the Sikh community with half of the population living in East Punjab and rest in Muslim majority West Punjab located in Pakistan. This gave them a political standby which continued during the time of Quit India Movement. The reaction of Akalis on Quit India movement was much fragmented. While one section of the party wanted to follow a token civil disobedience movement, the other faction under Master Tara Singh wanted to give full support to the British Government. The Akalis called for a conference in the Vahilla Kalhan in Lyallpur District on 26th and 27th September in which it passed a resolution in favour of independence in India and breaking the political deadlock. While this resolution brought a compromise among the4 difference within the Akali party; the party was mainly interested in retain its position in the army which would require their support to the British government. At the same time they were also aware of their political relevance and remaining associated with the Punjab government and the center as well. So the reaction of the Sikhs was much tilting as they were not certain enough as to which side would have been more beneficial for them. Thus, it gave a two way support to both the Indian National Congress as well as the British Government. Nevertheless the value of every community and their support mattered to the congress in order to make the movement as successful as possible. (Last Updated on : 15-11-2010) |
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