Explain Demand for partition by Muslim League.

The demand for the partition of British India, leading to the creation of Pakistan, was primarily championed by the All-India Muslim League, a political party representing the interests of Muslims in the Indian subcontinent. The demand for partition emerged against the backdrop of communal tensions, political differences, and the complex socio-religious landscape of British India.

Key Factors Leading to the Demand for Partition:

1. Two-Nation Theory: The Muslim League, under the leadership of Muhammad Ali Jinnah, articulated the Two-Nation Theory, asserting that Hindus and Muslims were distinct nations with separate religious, social, and cultural identities. This theory formed the ideological basis for the demand for a separate Muslim state.

2. Fear of Hindu Domination: Muslims, particularly in areas where they were a minority, expressed concerns about political and economic marginalization within a unified India. They feared that a majority Hindu government would not adequately represent their interests and protect their rights.

3. Communal Riots and Tensions: The pre-independence period witnessed several instances of communal violence and tensions between Hindus and Muslims. The inability to resolve these conflicts and the perception of religious discrimination fueled the demand for a separate homeland for Muslims.

4. Opposition to Congress Dominance: The Muslim League perceived the Indian National Congress, which had a predominantly Hindu leadership, as a party that might marginalize Muslim interests in a unified India. The League's demand for partition was, in part, a response to their apprehensions about potential Hindu majoritarianism.

5. Economic and Social Concerns: Muslims, particularly in the northwestern and northeastern regions, felt that a separate state would provide them with greater opportunities for socio-economic development and political representation.

6. Lahore Resolution (1940): The Lahore Resolution, also known as the Pakistan Resolution, was passed by the Muslim League in 1940. It called for the creation of independent states for Muslims in regions where they were in a numerical majority. This resolution laid the groundwork for the demand for the partition of British India.

7. Failure of Inter-Community Dialogues: Efforts to find a common ground between the Congress and the Muslim League failed, exacerbating tensions and reinforcing the demand for a separate Muslim state.

The culmination of these factors led the Muslim League to push for the creation of Pakistan, which eventually came into existence on August 14, 1947, when British India gained independence and was simultaneously divided into two independent nations, India and Pakistan. The partition marked a significant moment in history, shaping the political landscape of South Asia and leaving a lasting impact on inter-community relations in the region.