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Chapter 5: Pakistan Since Creation: Initial Problems and Solutions

Knowledge Objectives

• Understand the initial problems faced by Pakistan after its creation.

• Learn about the Kashmir issue and the war in 1948.

• Recognize the significance of Quaid-e-Azam’s role as the first Governor-General of Pakistan.

Skills Objectives

• Identify the key challenges Pakistan faced immediately post-independence.

• Analyze the causes and events surrounding the Kashmir conflict.

Historical Background

• Pakistan was formed on 14 August 1947 (27th Ramadan, 1366 AH) through the efforts of Muslim leaders, notably Sir Syed Ahmed Khan, Allama Muhammad Iqbal, and Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah.

• It emerged as the world's first ideological state based on the Two Nation Theory, which argued that Hindus and Muslims were distinct nations needing separate homelands.

• The formation was initiated following the British government's announcement of the Third June Plan for the partition of India.

Initial Problems of the New State

1. Administrative Issues

   • Massive migration caused by partition led to widespread riots and dislocations.

   • Shortages of office furniture, equipment, and trained personnel hampered government functions.

   • Many government posts were vacated, as they were predominantly held by Hindus, who destroyed records during their exodus.

2. Division of Assets

   • Pakistan did not receive all the allocated assets from the British government; received only Rs. 20 crore initially, leading to severe financial strain.

   • An additional 50 crores were later provided reluctantly by India.

3. Division of Military Forces

   • Agreement entailed a 64:36 ratio for military division; Pakistan ended up with only 1/3 share (36%).

   • Pakistan inherited no ordnance factories, leading to production delays for arms and ammunition.

4. Water Division Issues

   • Rivers essential for irrigation primarily flowed from regions now in India; India halted water flow to West Punjab in 1948, causing a major water crisis.

   • The Indus Water Treaty was later established in 1960 with the help of the World Bank, ensuring water rights for Pakistan.

5. Radcliffe Award

   • Sir Cyril Radcliffe was appointed to define borders; decisions included crucial Muslim-majority areas like Kashmir and Gurdaspur joining India, shocking Mr. Jinnah and causing contention.

6. Merging of Princely States

   • Rulers of princely states had the option to join either India or Pakistan. Some, like Bahawalpur, initially decided on accession to Pakistan. The Khan of Kalat declared independence before joining Pakistan in 1948.

   • The fate of Jammu and Kashmir was particularly contentious, leading to ongoing conflict, especially after the Maharaja's decision to join India against the local Muslim population's wishes.

   • United Nations intervention in 1948 called for a ceasefire and plebiscite, which remains unresolved.

7. Refugee Rehabilitation

   • Partition displaced millions; the government established refugee camps but faced financial constraints.

   • Initiatives like the Refugee Relief Fund were set up to support the influx of migrants, with significant monetary aid from local leaders.

8. Geographical Complications

   • Pakistan comprised East and West Pakistan, separated by Indian territory, impacting governance and resource distribution.

9. Economic Challenges

   • Newly-formed Pakistan was economically deprived, primarily agrarian, and lacked industrial infrastructure which complicated its development.

   • Quaid-e-Azam's leadership involved significant initiatives for economic recovery, including forming the State Bank of Pakistan and drafting industrial policies.

   • His appeal for unity and denouncement of provincialism guided early governance and development.

Key Figures and Actions

• Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah: As the first Governor-General, he was a pivotal figure in establishing the new state, organizing relief efforts, and ensuring Pakistan's international recognition.