Explain Congress-Muslim League Unity in 1919-20.

The period of Congress-Muslim League unity in 1919-1920 was a short-lived but significant phase in Indian political history, characterized by joint efforts between the Indian National Congress and the All India Muslim League to voice common concerns and demands against British colonial policies. This collaboration was largely driven by shared objectives in response to the repressive measures of the British government.

Key Aspects of Congress-Muslim League Unity (1919-1920):

1. Opposition to the Rowlatt Act:

   • The Rowlatt Act, passed by the British government in 1919, empowered authorities to detain individuals without trial. This legislation was met with strong opposition from both the Congress and the Muslim League, as it curtailed civil liberties and fueled discontent.

2. Jallianwala Bagh Massacre:

   • The tragic Jallianwala Bagh massacre in Amritsar on April 13, 1919, where British troops indiscriminately opened fire on a peaceful gathering, further fueled the unity between the Congress and the Muslim League. Both parties condemned the brutal incident, demanding accountability and retribution for the loss of innocent lives.

3. Khilafat Movement:

   • Another crucial factor that contributed to the unity between the Congress and the Muslim League was the Khilafat Movement. The movement aimed to protest against the dismantling of the Ottoman Caliphate and garnered support from both Hindu and Muslim leaders. Congress leaders, including Mahatma Gandhi, actively participated in the Khilafat Movement, fostering a sense of common cause.

4. Joint Protests and Demonstrations:

   • The Congress and the Muslim League organized joint protests, strikes, and demonstrations against the oppressive British policies. Leaders from both parties, including prominent figures like Mahatma Gandhi, Muhammad Ali Jinnah, and Maulana Mohammad Ali, participated in joint agitations to express their collective opposition to colonial injustices.

5. Amritsar Session of Congress (1919):

   • The Amritsar session of the Indian National Congress in 1919 played a crucial role in solidifying the unity between the Congress and the Muslim League. Resolutions were passed, condemning British policies and expressing joint demands for constitutional reforms, civil liberties, and self-governance.

6. Joint Memorandum to the Viceroy:

   • In December 1919, a joint memorandum was submitted to the Viceroy by leaders of both parties, articulating their shared concerns and demands. This demonstrated a rare unity between Hindus and Muslims in their collective struggle against colonial rule.

Despite the temporary unity during 1919-1920, differences between the Congress and the Muslim League eventually resurfaced, leading to the gradual polarization of Indian politics along communal lines in the subsequent decades. However, the unity during this period laid the groundwork for future collaboration and highlighted the potential for joint efforts in the broader struggle for Indian independence.