Simla Deputation and the Formation of the Muslim League 1906 (O Level Notes)

The Simla Deputation 1906 and the founding of the All-India Muslim League in the same year mark the start of organised Muslim politics in India.

Quick answer: On 1 October 1906 a deputation of 35 Muslim leaders led by Sir Aga Khan met Viceroy Lord Minto at Simla and asked for separate electorates. On 30 December 1906 the All-India Muslim League was founded at Dhaka to protect Muslim political rights.

Why the Simla Deputation Was Sent

• The Liberal government in Britain planned new constitutional reforms with more elected seats.
• Muslims were a minority and feared being outvoted by the Hindu majority in joint elections.
• The Hindu campaign against the Partition of Bengal had alarmed Muslims.
• The Hindi–Urdu controversy had already shown that Muslim culture needed protection.

Demands of the Deputation

• Separate electorates for Muslims.
• More seats than their share of the population (weightage), because of their political importance.
• A fair share of government jobs and seats on councils.

Importance of the Simla Deputation

• Lord Minto gave a sympathetic reply, and separate electorates were granted in the Morley–Minto Reforms of 1909.
• It showed that Muslims saw themselves as a separate community.
• Its success encouraged Muslims to form their own party.

Formation of the Muslim League

• Founded on 30 December 1906 at Dhaka, after the annual meeting of the Muhammadan Educational Conference.
• Hosted by Nawab Salimullah of Dhaka; Nawab Viqar-ul-Mulk presided.

Aims of the Muslim League

• To protect and advance the political rights of Indian Muslims.
• To represent Muslim needs to the government.
• To promote loyalty to the British government.
• To prevent hostility towards other communities.

Exam Tip

A common 7-mark question is “Why was the Muslim League founded in 1906?” Give three explained reasons: Congress was seen as a Hindu-dominated body, the reaction to the Partition of Bengal, and the success of the Simla Deputation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who led the Simla Deputation?

The Simla Deputation was led by Sir Aga Khan and met the Viceroy, Lord Minto, on 1 October 1906.

What was the main demand of the Simla Deputation?

The main demand was separate electorates, so that Muslim voters would elect their own Muslim representatives.

When and where was the Muslim League founded?

The All-India Muslim League was founded on 30 December 1906 at Dhaka.