Punjab played a crucial role in the Pakistan Movement due to its diverse religious and cultural composition. While the province was home to a significant Sikh and Hindu population, Muslims formed a majority. Leaders like Sir Sikandar Hayat Khan and later Khizr Hayat Khan played pivotal roles in supporting the Muslim League’s demand for a separate state. The Lahore Resolution of 1940, which laid the foundation for Pakistan, was passed in Punjab’s capital. Despite communal tensions, the Muslims of Punjab overwhelmingly supported the creation of Pakistan, and the province became an integral part of the new nation in 1947.
Sindh, with a predominantly Muslim population, played a supportive role in the Pakistan Movement. Leaders like Sir Abdullah Haroon and Ghulam Hussain Hidayatullah were instrumental in advocating for the rights of Muslims and supporting the demand for a separate state. Sindh’s commitment to the cause was evident in the 1945-46 elections, where the Muslim League secured a significant mandate. Sindh became an integral part of Pakistan, contributing to the diversity and unity of the newly formed nation.
Balochistan, with its distinct tribal structure, witnessed active participation in the Pakistan Movement. Tribal leaders and intellectuals, such as the Khan of Kalat and Mir Ghaus Bakhsh Bizenjo, played key roles in supporting the idea of an independent Muslim state. The people of Balochistan, despite facing geographical and communication challenges, expressed their solidarity with the Pakistan Movement. Balochistan’s integration into Pakistan post-partition contributed to the geographical diversity of the newly formed country.
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, historically known as the Northwest Frontier Province (NWFP), had a diverse population with Pashtuns being the majority. Leaders like Khan Abdul Ghaffar Khan, known as the “Frontier Gandhi,” initially had reservations about the demand for Pakistan. However, as the Pakistan Movement gained momentum, a significant section of the population in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa started supporting the cause. The 1945-46 elections reflected this shift, with the Muslim League gaining substantial support. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa became an essential part of Pakistan, contributing to the unity and diversity of the new nation.