Author: W W Hunter
Publisher: Rupa
Year: 2002
Language: English
Pages: 208
ISBN/UPC (if available): 8171676901
Description
Written over a century ago, this book is a fascinating account of the possible causes behind the rising fanaticism among a section of Indian Muslims.
In the post-Mutiny period, the British administrators remained highly suspicious of the Indian populace. However, attempts were also made to bridge the gap between the British Raj and the persistently belligerent class, described as a source of permanent danger to the Indian empire. W Hunter's book, written over a century ago, is a fascinating account of the possible causes behind the rising fanaticism among a section of Indian Muslims. Hunter argues in his book that the education and persuasion of Muslims was a better option for the British as a death in the cause of religion has in all ages sufficed to illuminate a life of infamy.
Although written as an apologia by Sir William Hunter to the question mooted by Lord Mayo: "Are the Indian Musalmans bound by their Religion to rebel against the Queen?", the book pictures partially the great Puritanical revival - the Wahabi Movement in Islam, and how it served to give expression to the agonies of a great nation which just lost an empire and political power.
The book carries an introduction by Prof. Bimal Prasad, who was Professor of South Asian Studies at Jawaharlal Nehru University for many years, and later served as India's Ambassador to Nepal.
Contents
Introduction
The Standing Revel Camp on our Frontier
The Chronic Conspiracy within our Territory
The Decisions of Muhammadan Law Doctors
The Wrongs of the Muhammadans Under British Rule
Appendix
Decision of the Mecca Law Doctor
Decision of the Law Doctors of Northern India
Decision of the Calcutta Muhammadan Society
Notes