Why KP Province Mattered So Much to Quaid-e-Azam

News Desk

Peshawar: A leader of rare intellect and unwavering resolve, Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, who altered the course of history through constitutionalism and democratic struggle, was remembered across the country on his 149th birth anniversary.

Revered for his principles of Unity, Faith and Discipline, Quaid-e-Azam earned admiration not only from supporters but also from adversaries and global scholars. His legacy continues to resonate far beyond Pakistan’s borders.

Renowned American historian Stanley Wolpert, in his seminal book Jinnah of Pakistan (1984), famously wrote:

“Few individuals significantly alter the course of history. Fewer still modify the map of the world. Hardly anyone can be credited with creating a nation-state. Muhammad Ali Jinnah did all three.”

This observation encapsulates the extraordinary achievement of a man who led the case for Muslim nationhood in the Indian subcontinent through legal acumen, political foresight, and unwavering commitment to democratic principles.

Architect of a Democratic Struggle

Born on December 25, 1876, in Karachi, Quaid-e-Azam spearheaded the political movement for Pakistan after assuming leadership of the All India Muslim League. Following the adoption of the historic Pakistan Resolution in 1940, he revitalised the party by mobilising Muslims across British India, particularly in Muslim-majority regions including the then North-West Frontier Province (now Khyber Pakhtunkhwa).

Through tireless travel, public engagement, and political organisation, he transformed the Muslim League into a mass movement, galvanising students, intellectuals, and grassroots supporters alike.

A Special Bond with Islamia College Peshawar

Among the institutions closest to Quaid-e-Azam’s heart was Islamia College Peshawar (ICP), which he visited in 1936, 1945, and later in 1948 as Pakistan’s first Governor General. These visits underscored the pivotal role played by students in the Pakistan Movement.

During his 1945 visit, deeply moved by the enthusiasm and patriotism of the students, the Muslim Students Federation presented him with Rs8,000 to support the movement—pledging to provide 8,000 trained and committed workers for Pakistan. The gesture symbolised the depth of student involvement in the freedom struggle.

The people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa responded to Quaid-e-Azam’s leadership with remarkable fervour. In the 1946 elections, the Muslim League secured an unprecedented victory in the province, cementing KP’s role in the final push towards independence.

Homes, markets, vehicles, and streets were adorned with Muslim League flags as citizens poured out in thousands, chanting “Pakistan Zindabad” and “Quaid-e-Azam Zindabad.”

“A sea of people from across KP and the erstwhile tribal areas gathered to catch a glimpse of their beloved leader,” recalled Muhammad Younas Khan, former Chairman of Pakistan Studies at Islamia College Peshawar.

“The city wore a festive look, with national flags fluttering atop major buildings and vehicles.”

Guiding the Youth of a New Nation

Quaid-e-Azam’s final visit to ICP on April 12, 1948, holds particular historical significance. Addressing students as the first Governor General of Pakistan, he paid glowing tribute to their contributions and described them as the future custodians of the country.

“I am indeed very happy to be present here today and to have the privilege of addressing students of this great Darul Uloom, who are the future builders of Pakistan,” he said.

He urged students to cultivate discipline, integrity, and academic excellence, likening the state to a garden that flourishes only through care, honesty, and constructive effort by its citizens.

His vision soon translated into action. In 1949, the University of Peshawar was established near ICP, reflecting his emphasis on higher education as the foundation of national progress.

A Lasting Legacy of Education

Quaid-e-Azam’s enduring affection for educational institutions was also evident in his historic will, written on May 30, 1939, in Mumbai. In it, he named Islamia College Peshawar, Aligarh Muslim University, and Sindh Madrassatul Islam as inheritors of his property.

Subsequently, the Quaid Trust provided Rs10.81 million to ICP, which was utilised for establishing the Quaid-e-Azam College of Commerce at the University of Peshawar, constructing Jinnah Residential Quarters, Jinnah College for Women, and the Takbeer Block.

Professor Dr Ejaz Khan, former Chairman of the International Relations Department at the University of Peshawar, described Quaid-e-Azam’s address to ICP students as “historic and timeless.”

“He laid great emphasis on education, character-building, and constructive criticism aimed at reform rather than political point-scoring,” he said, adding that Pakistan’s progress lies in reviving these foundational principles.

A Deep Connection with Tribal Areas

Quaid-e-Azam also shared a deep bond with the tribes of the merged tribal districts (erstwhile FATA). Former MNA Shah Ghee Gul Afridi recalled that the Quaid held immense respect for tribesmen due to their loyalty, sacrifices, and steadfast support during the Pakistan Movement.

Despite failing health and immense administrative responsibilities, he visited Peshawar again on April 17, 1948, to address a Grand Tribal Jirga at the Governor House. He praised the tribes’ patriotism and reaffirmed their integral role in Pakistan’s future.

An Unfinished Mission

Relentless work and deteriorating health eventually took their toll. Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah passed away on September 11, 1948, barely a year after Pakistan’s independence. He was laid to rest in Karachi, leaving behind a nation and a legacy rooted in constitutionalism, democracy, and moral leadership.

More than seven decades later, his message remains clear: Pakistan’s strength lies in unity, integrity, education, and unwavering commitment to democratic values.