The True Islamic Concept of Jihad — Page 6
[ 6 ] accept such a contradiction, but no sensible person could believe it. Historical Background of the British Occupation of India What conditions would cause the British to be fearful? Let us take a look at some of these potential scenarios in relation to their political background. When the British entered India and consolidated their rule, what was the condition of the Muslims at the time? What power could make the British fearful? Maulav i Mas u d ‘ A lam Nadv i writes in reference to this period: At that time, Punjab was ruled by the Sikhs. The respect and honour of Muslim women was not safe anymore. Killing them was permissible although slaughtering of a cow was forbidden. Mosques were being used as stables. In short, there was a flood of brutal excesses that was sweeping away the Muslim population of the Five Rivers 6. While the eyes saw everything, the strength to stop this trag- edy had totally dissipated. ( The First Movement in India , p. 45) India was alive in name, but its ability to act was in a state of paralysis. Muslims, from north to south, could not even proclaim the sanctity of their fellow Muslim brethren’s blood, let alone fight against those who had violated its 6. i. e. , the Punjab