The sun behind the clouds Farid Ahmed
Introduction.
It is an irresistible pressure on both mind and heart that led me to write this book-a pressure to unveil the veiled, to explore the unexplored, to explain the unexplained and to exhibit the unexhibited. Almost two dozens of invaluable years have elapsed silently but unsmoothly since our emancipation from the clutches of colonial rule, and yet we are groping helplessly in utter darkness. Our crawling nation of 1947 remained where it was or, as I am heavily inclined to say, it moved in a regressive way. Our genuine struggle against un Islamic and undemocratic norms and practices, autocratic rules and bureaucratic manoevuring, ruthless economic exploitation and rootless political propagandists, against restlessness, chaos and confusion, against parochialism, provincialism and regionalism miserably failed to achieve its goal; we failed repeatedly to crown our movements with success. And therefore we, as a distinct Muslim nation, as a separate sovereign political entity is faced with a big-very big ‘why’.
Democracy and justice, the conceptions of Islamic equality, brotherhood and Muslim nationalism were stabbed in 1958 and within the following four or five years all these virtues succumbed gradually but completely to this injury. We were forcibly submerged into the ocean of darkness, into the state of an oppressive authoritarian rule, into the helpless condition of trembling prey to the treacherous torture of the ambitious bureacrats under the aegis of a strong autocrat. And yet they called themselves democratic, they pictured themselves as the champions of democracy and justice. Tocqueville was fully right when he remarked. It is our way of using the words ‘democracy and democratic government that brings about the greatest confusion. Unless these words are clearly defined and their definition agreed upon, people will live in an inextricable confusion of ideas, much to the advantage of demagogues and despots.’Democracy must be defined in simple understandable terms. People must know it and they must unmistakably distinguish between the champions of democracy and the murderers of democracy.
“Peace, quiet, and orderly progress-these are only memories of a past long dead. Crisis seems to have become almost a daily feature of international life-in fact, the very word ‘crisis,’ defined by Websters’ as the decisive moment, turning point, a crucial time,’ has been robbed of its meaning. So many moments that were decisive and crucial have come and gone that the observing citizen has become almost immune to the stocks of these recurring turning points. He watches helplessly, for what can he do to influence events except perhaps to retreat into a nostalgic quest for formerly quieter time, for simple and easy answers to the complex and seemingly overwhelming problems of the world in which he lives. These words of John W. Spanier about contemporary world may be applied in case of our beloved country too. The recent political turmoil and catastrophe amply supports this contention.
We must then run after that big ‘Why ? Why our political sky is so much clouded? Why the eternal tenets and principles of the holy Qur’an and Sunnah are not practiced in Pakistan which was achieved, obviously and undoubtedly, at the cost of millions of lives of Muslims, in the name of Islam? As a Muslim nation we couldn’t – we simply failed to mould our life both social and political in the heavenly light of Islam, in the teachings of Allah and his Prophet (Peace be on him). But the question remains. The big ‘why haunts us, and so we must see in retrospect. We must have our self criticism, We must analyse and interpret our past. People must know what happened beyond their vision, the curtain of falsehood and smokescreen must be lifted. My present book is a humble endeavor in this direction.
The book is exclusively based upon my diary covering a period of about one year but a very crucial year of our national existence. In 1954 I was elected a member of the Provincial Assembly and in the following year I was elected as a member of the Second Constituent Assembly. In those days I was not so much conscious about maintaining a personal diary scientifically. However, subsequently, when I was arrested at Lahore in 1964 and was imprisoned, I began to note down significant events and activities, albeit, not too systematically. Nevertheless, on my release on Oct. 27, 1964 through a decree of the West Pakistan High Court (the ‘democratic government of those days, however, expelled me and prohibited my entry into West Pakistan as soon as I was freed) I published a book in Bengali entitled ‘Karagare Sataish Deen describing the memorable days inside the prison bar. (Society itself, in a broad sense, is a prison as Peter L. Berger remarked, “Society is the walls of our imprisonment in history). In 1967, the Election Tribunal declared me elected to the National Assembly unsitting my rival Mr. Gyasuddin Chowdhury and from those days on I began to keep short notes on the proceedings of the National Assembly in black and white. During the mass movement against Dr. Fazlur Rahman for his mischevous book on Islam I had been keeping notes on important evens and occasions and to tell the truth, during the Round Table Conference which began on February 20. 1969, and in which I took part as one of the representatives from East Pakistan, I was the only person to maintain systematic diary on the proceeding to the RTC. The present book as you see, is exclusively based on these diaries and other notes on various meetings.
The present book covers the period between May 3, 1968 and March 25, 1969. This period, for several reasons, was one of the most crucial moments in the twenty-four year old history of our national existence. The RTC was the the first opportunity for us to restore democracy, to rebuild our society on the principles of Islam, to reorganize our national life on the teachings of Quaid-e-Azam Mohammad Ali Jinnah. But our dream remained unfulfilled our leadership failed to achieve the goal for which the nation as a whole sacrificed much blood, for which the entire people was awaiting with eagerness, for which the Pakistanis launched the historic movement of 1969. What was the cause of our failure? What factors were responsible for such a tragic end that culminated in the reimposition of Martial Law ? Who played what role in this national drama?All these questions have assumed greater significance in view of the present political disaster that shook the very foundation of our existence as a distinct Muslim nation. And my present endeavour is directed towards the end of solving these questions. Obviously, the reader must not hope to find the complete answer and the solution is not so easy.
I have tried my best to present facts and events without prejudice or bias. Utmost caution has been undertaken to maintain simple neutrality and to present the facts as they were. However, I wish the readers do not to forget the words of Alain, ‘Our ideas are our spectacles.’
The solution of the problems that we or the entire humanity confronts today lies in Islam and Islam only. Islam alone can offer an answer to the query of peace-loving people, to the cries of self-destrucing human race, to the pessimistic, crisis-torn, ravaged mankind. Love and creativity have perished from the minds of men, brotherhood and wellbling have gone from the hearts of the human beings. Destructiveness has become the measure of man’s power, strength and civilization. Islam alone is the answer to this state of affairs. It alone can bring peace, tranquillity and progress. Allah, the Almighty, himself asserted : “I have given you the Quran, (in which): you will find (the description of) anything and everything; and read it (because) it is capable of giving you peace.”
This book is perhaps the first attempt to cover a very crucial political phase of Pakistan. My labor and endeavour will be of meaning if the present book can attract other authors and political figures to explore this horizon more and more penetratingly.
May Allah bless us. May Allah give us the courage and strength to rebuild Pakistan on the principles of Islam, on the teachings of he holy Quran and Sunnah. Pakistan Kainbad.
The Author
FROM MY OWN DIARY
3rd May, 1968, 5 Safar, 1389 Hijri, Friday
Warm send off at the Dacca airport by the members of the Pakistan Brotherhood. Arrived Lahore and received with great warmth by Sabir Jaffry, Baguir, Rana Zafrullah Khan and A.D. Khan. Had interesting talks with Nadim and Katil both of them being famous feature writers in Urdu dailies and periodicals. Lahore-Pindi flight was bumpy with dust storm and it was a pity seeing Pir Abdul Hye, Parliamentary Sccy, in pains like in the death-bed Received at the air port by Salahuddin Khan, and Qureshi, P.D.M. Secy. Stayed in Kamran Hotel but found it inconvenient for offering salat. Joined Asr and Maghreb salat with the Pir Sahib of Golra Sharif at Chawla Garage. Went to Mrs Davies Hotel and fixed Room No 4 and decided to move next day.
4th May, 1968, 6 Safar, 1389 Hijri, Saturday.
Rose carly, salat and went out for 3 miles walk on the Murree Road. Went to the Assembly and submitted notice for 2 adjournment motions. Learnt that the Govt was serious about getting a favourable judgment in the election writ case by Friday next. Changed over to Mrs. Davies Hotel after midday meals. Went to Sadar and purchased shoc, cap, typing papers and a book on Yoga. Salate Maghreb and Awwabin in Chawla garage with the Pirsaheb of Golra Sharif, the usual meeting place of the Pir from Asr to Maghreb.
5th May, 1968 7 Safar 1389 Hijri, Sunday
Usual routine of early rise, salat and 3 mile jog-run for your life. Ishraque. Did some research on salat. Wrote letters to wife, children and relations, took naasta in the Dining Hall where I met Hasan Akhtar Gardezi of APP and had interesting talks with him. With Khurshid Sahib accompanying me, went to the Assembly hall on foot and read newspapes to keep myself upto date with events. Khurshid Sahib took dictation of letters to Abdus Salam, Chairman Cox’s Bazar Town Committee and Vice-Admiral A.R. Khan regarding the compensation, gratuity and pension of Pakistani seamen displaced from India as a result of the ’65 September war. Contacted Janab Nurul Amin on phone and made appointment with him for a meeting which was fixed for the afternoon. 4 Jordanian boys studying in Pakistan saw and talked about their problems. Read the report of the Central Public Service Commission. Went to the Kohinoor guest house where Janab Nurul Amin was staying and requested him to call a meeting of the opposition M. N.A’s. He agreed to convene a meeting tomorrow at 8-30 a.m. Went to the office of PPI and drafted a press statement in that office. Went to the office of APP and met the Manager and the staff. Met Major Abdur Rashid of Army Sports and exchanged views about the present state of sports and how the bottlenecks for improvement can be removed. Met Arif Iftikhar and the discussions took long time and thereby missed dinner at the hotel as the dining ball was closed.
6th May, 1968, 8 Safar, 1389 Hijri, Monday
The usual morning schedule. Did some Yoga asans Later. Went to meet Arif Iftikhar in Hotel Flashman as previously arranged and waited for about 45 minutes but there being no chance of his getting earlier than midday, went to the meeting of the opposition M.N.A.’s. Participated in the debates in the Assembly in all the motions and 1 was back in my old form. Law Minister Zafar paid me compliments saying that I have brought “Raunak’ to the house. Saw Gyasuddin Chowdhury (my rival who defeated me in the election but who was unseated as a result of the election Petition filed by me) in the Assembly lobby hobnobbing with Khan Abdus Sabur Khan and others. It is for the sole purpose of influencing the decision of the case in his favour through the intervention of Ayub Khan. Late launch and no siesta. Dictated a few letterrs and assembly questions to Khurshid Sahib. It is raining in the afternoon. Drew T. A. and D.A. bills and went for shopping. Owner of Kamran Hotel entertained me with tea in his restaurent and narrated his tale of grievances and expected me to do something. Met Minhaj Sahib of Pakistan
Services Lid which operates the Intercontinental Hotel. A shop keeper came running out of his shop and greeted me with warmth and told me of his appreciation of the services rendered by me.
7th May, 1968 2 Safar, 1389 Hijri Tuesday,
Got up at 3 a.m. and was glad to have been able to offer Tahajjut after a long time. Tilawate Quran. After the routine was over, tried Sirsha Asana (Standing on head). Started for the Assembly at 8.30 a.m. and did some reading in the library. The attitude of the most of the members of the opposition betrays a sense of responsibility to the people and self centredness and their anxiety to do things solo made me disgusted. Returned to my room past 2 p.m. Short siesta after midday meal. Dictated letters, questions and amendments. Went before maghreb and performed salatul maghreb in a masjid west of the hotel in jamaat. Purchase a shirt. Greetings all the way from every section of the people who want me to fight for them. Made a few purchases but the shopkeepers refused to accept payment from me and requested me for doa. Tried Tritak as I felt uneasiness in my vision.
8th May, 1968, 10 Safar, 1389 Hijri, Wednesday,
Got up just in time but morning jogging delayed. Went to the assembly and took Amanullah and Gardeji. A.P.P. correspond in the car of Law Minister Zafar who gave us a lift in his official car while we were waiting for a taxi. He praised me for having raised the standard of debate. Attended meeting of the assembly but had very little to do as having spoken yesterday I had no right to speak to-day under the rules. Succeeded in infusing some sense of cohesion among the opposition members during the question hour by friendly suggestions. I participated effectively in asking questions and preventing the Ministers in evading the real answer. Afazuddin Faqir (Independent member of the opposition) proposed during the recess that all the members of the opposition should meet and evolve a common line of action against the Govt Janab Nurul Amin did not like the idea. Spoke to Shah Aziz (deputy leader of the opposition, A.L). He also did not show any enthusiasm. Saw Gyasuddin Chowdhury in Sabur’s room. In all likelihood making tadbir for the case through him. Tobacco Board Ordinance was placed for approval of the Assembly and I took full advantage of the situation by driving a nail in the coffin when I raised the question as to who had assented and signed the Ordinance because Ayub was mortally ill during the relevant time. It was a Govt. in comma,” I said and the ministers sat in bewilderment. Went to Chawla Garage and offered Salats along the Pir Saheb of Golra Sharif. 4 East Pakistani journalists in my hotel come and had long talks with them on various problems. Asrar of the Daily Azad and leader of the Journalists Union of Pakistan asked me questions on current topics and gave him proper briefing on the situation as I saw it.
9th May, 1968, 11 Safar, 1389 Hijri, Thursday
Inspite of going to be quite late in the night, got up quite early for performing the religious obligations. Went to the near by masjid for salatil Fazr. Went out on jogging mission and dropped in the room of Deputy Speaker, A.T.M. Matin in East Pakistan House Saw Burhanuddin (Secy Ministry of Education, Govt of East Pakistan) in East Pakistan House and talked to him briefly. Talked to Law Minister Zafar and Sabur Khan regarding Telephone calls made to Siddiki from Pindi. Did some reading in the library on law and finance. Khurshid Sahib met an accident in his scooter when a taxi hit from behind. One Malik of Nairobi came to see me in connection with a representation pending in the Ministry of communications and I promised to do my best.
10th May, 1968, 12 Safar, 1389 Hizri, Friday, •
Usual routine of morning activities. Attended Assembly session but very little to do. Studied for sometime in the library. There is good deal of activities for filling up the vacant seats of ministers. Had a quick midday and rushed to the nearest masjid as I was late in returning. Returned to the hotel after salate Juma and had some rest. Two East Pakistani employees saw me to represent their grievances Attended a reception by the citizens of Pindi in honour of PDM leaders in Liaqat Bag and spoke in Punjabi. Called on Chowdhury Muhammad Ali at Darul Hayat and discussed the current political situation. Chief Settlement Commissioner came to pay his respects. Took up the case of the East Pakistan settlers in G.M. barrage area. Malik Shafi saw me again with his papers.
IIth May, 1968, 13 Safar, 1389 Hijri, Saturday
Got up for Tahajjut. Slept for an hour and then got up again for salate Fazar. Umar Khan, an employee of the Ministry of defence and Malik Shafi called on me. Framed questions for them. Drafted a press statement on the problems faced by the East Pakistani settlers in G.M. Barrage area. Went to Islamabad and called on Mutlaq, the Saudi Arabian Ambassador. Told him about the role of Hedaj qua the vicious propaganda carried against her in the western counties. Went to the M.N.A. Hostel where I met Afazuddin Faquir and Hasan A. Sheikh. Returned from Islamabad, had meal and a short nap. Some candidates for Army Commission saw me to take up their case for 3rd chance.
Addressed public meeting in Liaquat Bag, under the auspices of the P.D.M. Made a forthright frontal attack on Ayub’s one man rule and my similes went home to the minds of the audience who seemed to like them immensly. Daulatana, Moudoodi, Nurul Amin and others also addressed the meeting but their scholarly discourse did not seem to create much enthusiasm.
12th May, 1968, 15 Safar, 1389 Hijri, Sunday,
After the usual morning schedule went and called on Chowdhury Muhammad Ali in Darul Hayat where from we started by car for Haripur accompanied by Nawabzada Sahib, Mahmud Ali, and Mian Tufail Muhammad Addressed a meeting of the workers in Haripur. Start for the residence of Abdur Rauf Khan Jadun via Abbotabad Had quick dinner and then started for Manshera and addressed a public meeting upto 10 p.m.
13th May, 1968, 15 Safar, 1389 Hijri, Monday,
Staying in Abdur Rauf Jadun’s country house along with the leaders. Could not maintain Joga exercise. The house is in the valley with hills on all sides. The green in the valley reminded me strongly of my own village where I was born.
Went to Abbotabad and addressed the Bar association there for more than half an hour. Qazi Sadique, President of the Bar Association, is a class fellow of Ayub. He asked me question after my address trying to elicit answer in favour of his friend but I was in top form out to kill with my humour and repartee.
Returned to Jadun’s place for a quick lunch and went back to Abbotabad and addressed a workers rally Drove back to Pindi after the meeting. Had quick dinner and went to bed at 10-30 p.m. and had to abandon study.
14th May, 1968, 16 Safar, 1389 Hijri, Tuesday,
No change in the morning schedule of activity. Aminul Islam Chowdhury M.N.A. told me that Supreme Court was aware of what was happening in the High court. The proof of divine design. Gauhar Ayub greeted me in the Assembly lounge. Sabur Khan told me a secret which showed the degree of discontentment and utter state of helplessness within the Govt. party.
Moved an amendment to the Tobacco Board Ordinance and utilised for launching a frontal attack on the misdeeds of the Govt. Returned to the Hotel and had some rest after meals. Drove to Jhelum accompanied by Mahmud Ali M.N.A. reaching at about Maghreb time. Addressed the public meeting which is the biggest ever held and my turn to address came past midnight as the organisers feel that they can keep the audience waiting for me. Found great enthusiasm amongst the people. who greeted me often and on during the address. Dove back to Pindia reaching at 3 a.m.
15th May, 1968. 17 Safar, 1389 Hijri, Wednesday,
Got up late due to the last nights journey and the public meeting. Did Joga. Went to the Assembly. Rather a dull day. Assembly proceedings becoming farcial without any purpose and direction. No concept of the dignity of the house. Talked to Janab Nurul Amin on the subject and he is no more interested than others. Returned to Hotel.
16th May, 1968, 18 Safar, 1968 Hijri, Thursday, Got up at 4-30 a.m. Tahajjut, Fazar, Ishraq, Chast and the 3 mile jog on the Peshawar Road. Discovered method in approach and work. Went to the Assembly and talked to Lahore and Karachi. Also telephoned and apprised him of the difficulties being faced by the East Pakistani settlers. Raised some points of order during the debates in an endeavour to restore dignity. Returned to the Hotel and had early meal and some rest. Worked on the Five Year Plan and took copious notes. Went out to Saddar and purchased some books from the London Book Depot. Did some study at night. Khurshid Sahib is going to Lahore in connection with the Atco job. May Allah grant him his pray.
17th May, 1968 19 Safar, 1389 Hijri, Friday,
Got up twice for Tahajjut and then slept beyond Fazar. 2 PDM workers from Gujranwala saw me and demanded that I should start at once and address the Bar Association. Rather an awkward proposition for me without previous intimtation, upsetting work and make a car dash of 130 miles. I had to decline politely and told them that I am committed to addressing the public meeting there this night as originally arranged.
Attended the Assembly and spoke on the Chartered Accountant’s Amendment Bill Paid the bills of the Hotel and started by car at 1-30 p.m. Offered Johar prayer at Gujrat past 3-30 p.m. Reached Gujranwala at 4 p.m.Addressed worker’s rally before Mahgreb and also a huge public meeting past midnight. Convention ists headed by the Chairman of the Municipality had spoilt the meeting originally arranged by watering it.
18th May, 1968 20 Safar, 1389 Hijri, Saturday,
Got up in time despite the fact that I had gone to bed past 2 a.m. Had carly breakfast and started for Lahore by Khyber mail at 7-30 a.m. M.N. Jahan, the famous footballer of the national team, now serving as a Railway Inspector gave me a V.I.P. treatment.
Attended a meeting of the national executive of PDM at the Gulberg residence of Chowdhury Muhammad Ali from 5p.m. to 8-20 p.m.
19th May, 1968, 21 Safar, 1389 Hijri, Sunday,
Attended meetings of the National Executive in the morning as well as in the evening. Malik Golam Jilani told the meeting that Yhaya had wanted to take over on February 5, 1968 when Ayub was critically ill. Fida had wanted a political settlement. Gilani told me in confience that he had talks with Fazlul Quader Chowdhury who is very keen to become President. Bhutto is prepared to wait for another term. Malik Golam Gilani thinks that I am the most suitable candidate Daulatana group wanted time to have their separate meeting. Strange stand but in keeping with their tradition. Lengthy discussions took place on the issue of participating in the clection. Confused thinking. Had no intention of participating in the discussions but felt constrained to speak at last. The discussion led to some direction and it was decided to participate in the election to the Electoral College. The decision regarding the election to the office of the President was deferred. I objected to the participation in the election to the Electoral college without participating in the election of the Prsident Sense of heaviness in my head.
20th May, 1968, 22 Safar, 1389 Hijri. Monday,
Had to hurry as I was hard pressed for time. When out for a stroll met Baquir. Attended a meeting of the working commitree of the Nezame-Islami party at the residence of Chowdhury Muhammad Ali. Dr. Siddique Mirza and Rana Zafrullah Khan amongst others came. Flew to Dacca after a hurried lunch. Difficuliy in landing due to clouds and poor visibility. Reception by members of the Pakistan Brotherhood.
3rd June, 1968, 7th Rabi, ul-Awwal 1389 Hijri Monday, Pindi
Attended meeting of the National Assembly, came to the Hotel and rested for some time after meals. Went to Chawla garrage for Asr and Maghreb salats where I happened to meet Malik Khizir Hayat Khan Tiwana, the controversial Premier of the Punjab shortly before Pakistan came into being. He is a disciple of the Pir Sahib and attends the Pir Sahib whenever he is in Pindi. Pir Sahib mentioned to me that Dr. Fazlur Rahman has written a book called Islam wherein he has cast doubts on the fundamentals of faith. Dr. Fazlur Rahman being the Director of the Islamic Research Institute and member of the Islamic Advisory Board, the book carries grave significance for Pakistan as well as for the rest of the world as being the official view of the Govt. of Pakistan. He wanted to know if I could raise the matter in the Assembly so that people might know. He told that he had approached many members of the Assembly with the request but none had agreed to do anything and now he pinned his hope on me. I promised to do my best but then I wanted to read the book myself and be satisfied before raising the question in the Assembly.
4th June, 1968, 8 Rabi-ul-Awwal 1389 Hijri, Tuesday, Pindi
Went to the Library of the Assembly and looked for the book. On enquiry I was told that the book has been issued and was lying with Mr. Mahmud Ali, M.N.A. Contacted him but as he was still reading it, he he could not hand it over to me.
In the afternoon, reported the matter to the Pir Sahib of Golra Sharif who directed one of his disciples to purchase the book and hand it over to me.
5th June, 1968, 9 Rabi-ul-Awwal, 1389 Hizri, Wednesday, Pindi
Started reading the book and found that there was a planned attack on the basic tenets of Islam, such as the existence of Hazrat Jibrail (Peace be on him) (i) Miraj is a story invented in imitation of the Christian doctrine of the ascension of Christ (Peace on him) (iii) The Quran does not contain the words of Allah but is the language of Hazrat Muhammad (Peace be on him) (iv) The Quran does not mention 5 salats daily but only 3 and the Prophet himself used to offer salats 3 times a day and 5 times a day were subsequent innovation () Zakat is not a religious obligation but only a form of taxation (vi) On the day of keyamat (final judgement) Hazrat Muhammad (Peace be on him) shall have no power of Shafa (intercession) on behalf of his ummat. I was fully convinced that Dr. Fazlur Rahman was in active conspiracy with an international gang of the enemies of Islam to adulterate the faith in a manner that nothing of Islam remain in the minds of the English educated Muslims who are already the victims of so much doubts, confusion and derision. It was also clear to me that Dr. Fazlur Rahman has been inducted into the high office of interpretating Islam at their instance and it suited Ayub Khan fine as he saw his role as that of Akbar the Great.
6th June, 1968, 10 Rabi-ul-Awwal, 1389 Hijri, Thursday, Pindi
Framed question on the book in such a manner so that suspicion is not raised and it is not outright rejected by a too obliging Ayub speaker.
7th June, 1968 11 Rabi, ul-Awwal 1389 Hijri Friday, Pindi
Attended meeting of the Assembly and duscussed the matter with Janab Nurul Amin. Mahmud Ali also happened to be present there. Both of them told me that they did not find anything wrong in the book and asked me not to do much ado about it. I politely told that I could not agree with their views. Submited the question.
22nd June, 1968, 26 Rai-ul Awwal 1389 Hijri, Saturday,
Law Minister Zafar answered the question and told the house that the book was not published by the Govt. A.P.P. fully controlled by the Govt. look good care to see that the proceedings with relation to this question is not published and the reporters were under positive orders not give any publicity to it though trivial matters of the Assembly used to occupy a lot of space having been covered by APP. I spoke to Akhtar Gardezi and Amanulla. Both of them were evasive. However Ahmed Hasan of PPA (Rawal Pindi bureau chief) prepared a seperate story and circulated it.
23rd June, 1968, 27 Rabi-ul-Awwal 1389 Hijri Sunday
All the newspapers of Pakistan except the Nawa i Waqt and the Mashriq of Lahore blacked out the story even though a national news agency had circulated it. That shows how powerful the anti-Islamic forces are in the Govt.
5th July, Friday, 1968, 9 Rabius soni 1989 Hijri, Karachi
Arrived here yesterday after the Assembly session on way to Dacca. On invitation went to the Bihar colony masjid and addressed the cogregation after Juma on the tcaching of the Holy Prophet (Peace be on him) and the attempt made by the Ayub Govt. to denigute his image.
Drove to Korangi colony and adressed PDM workers. Adressed 2 more meetings at Saudabad and Drigh Road colony. Rangup Darbar Ali Shah, CSP, Commissioner Karachi regarding the complaints received by me from the places visited by me to-day. Malik Golam Jilani suggested that I should seek election as President from the PDM.
6th July, 1968, 10 Rabi-us-sani Hijri 1389, Saturday, Karachi-Dacca,
Got up at 4-15 a.m. and got prepared for departure. Abdul Karim Rajkotwala drove me in his car. Called on Chowdhury Muhammad Ali on the way and held discussions with him on the flag of the party and distribution of party literatures. Met Prince Abbasi, 2nd prince of Bahawalpur who is now accredited
Reached Dacca with Abdul Karim Rajkotwala who is staying with me Had a report on the latest development of the Agartala conspiracy case.
9th July, 1968, 10 Rabi-u-sani 1389, Hijri, Tuesday, Decca
Held a meeting of the Neazame Islam leaders and workers present in Dacca. Syed Mahmud Mustafa Al-Madani, Syed Moslehuddin and others attended. It was reported to me that there was no news about Fazlur Rahman’s book in East Pakistan as no news paper carried it. However, a copy of the Nawai Waqt was received in our party office and a Bengali translation of the story was given to the Daily Azad and somehow a belated report was published and religious minded Muslims have taken serious notice of this dangerous attack on Islam by Govt. sponsored officials and organs. It was strongly felt that a movement should be launced as if such a grave matter was allowed to go unnoticed, Ayub Govt would succed in establishing their own version of Din-e-Elahi. All of us agreed that we should waste no time in launching movement and the co-operation of all Islamic elements should be sought.
23rd July, 1968, 27 Rabi-us-sani 1389 Hijri, Tuesday, Dacca.
Listened to B.B.C. broadcast which highlighted student’s demonstration before Ayub’s hotel room in London. Attended a meeting of PDM in Nurul Amin’s house.
28th July, 1968. 2 Jamudi-ul-Awwal, 1389 Hijri, Swiday, Dacca.
One Raunak Jahan, studying in Harvard University for his Ph.D. interviewed me regarding the history of the Nezame Islam party.
4th August, 1968, 9 Jamadi-ul-Awwal 1389 Hijri, Sunday, Dacca
Went to the meeting of Agarpara Madrassah and addressed the audience on the vile attacks contained in Fazlur Rahman’s book for nearly one and half hours.
5th August, 1968, 10 Jamadi-ul-Awwal 1389 Hijri, Monday, Dacca.
Argued the case of Qamrul Anam Khan of the daily Azad in the Supreme court with success. A deputation led by the Aeroplane masjid Imam called on me and requested to address a meeting on the book “Islam.” Attended a meeting of East Pakistan Relief Committee at the residence of Ataur Rahman.
7th August, 1968, 12 Jamadi-ul-Awwal 1389, Hijri, Wednesday, Dacca
Haji Ziauddin of Laboratory Road, sow me with a request to address a protest meeting on “Islam” in his locality.
9 August, 1968, 14 Jamadi-ul-Awwal 1389, Hijri, Friday, Dacca.
Offered salate Juma in Aeroplane masjid, Elephant Road, and addressed on “Islam.”
10th August, 1968, 16, Jamadi-ul-Awwal, 1389 Hizri, Saturday, Dacca.
Addressed another protest meeting at Badshahi masjid Lalmatia. Wave of indignation running through the veints of all true Muslims. Spoke to Profesor Golam Azam of Jamale-Islami and requested him to lend support to our movement. He replied in his characteristic fashion and took pity on me for wasting my energies on such a trifling thing. I did not persue the matter further knowing him as I did.
18th August 1968, 15 Jamadi-ul-Awwal 1389 Hijri, Suiday, Dacca-Feni
Started for Feni by Ulka and reached there at about Johar time. Usual reception by the enthusiastic crowd. Heavy rains rendered the Mizan Maidan slashy and no where a place to sit on. Large number of people have come from distant places and their degree of infectious enthusiasm can be gauged from the fact that they kept on standing for hours to listen to the speeches. People still feel inspired whenever there is a challenge to Islam despite all their shortcomings. Meeting a great success. Heard that Maulana Muhammad Akram Khan expired to-day at 6-15 p.m. Left for Chittagong by Chittagong mail
19th August, 1968, 23 Jamadi-ul-Awwal 1389, Hijri, Monday, Dacca
Reached Dacca in the morning. Went to see the dead body of Late Maulana Muhammad Akram Khan lying in eternal sleep. He looked rested and at peace. Group of persons reciting the Holy Quran in solemn and sad tones.
23rd August, 1968, 10 Jamadi-ul-Awwal 1389, Hijri Friday, Syaver,
Reached Sylhet this morning by train from Dacca. Syed Moslehuddin was already there and had come to the Railway Station along with thousands of others with garlands. Warm reception characteristic of the people of Sylhet. All the Sheikhs of Sylhet including Fultali., Baghai and Maulana Muhammad Mushahid were there.
Addressed a big gathering of people at the Registration ground. Maulana Mushahid was very sentimental in his approach and while referring to my role, described me as the Amir Sunnate Jamat. People are pining for action. There was hartal in the city yesterday as a preparation for to-day’s meeting. Dewan Abdul Basit, the provincial minister came on a special errand from his masters to his native town to prevent the meeting and had the mortification of seeing himself chased by the crowd and running for at his life. Earlier I offered Jamat the Jame masjid where I was sorrounded by the Musallis. Started for Dacca by Sylhet Mail.
30th August, 1968, Zamad-us-sani 1389, Hijri, Friday,
Dacca Jessore-Khulna
Flew to Jessore on way to Khulna by 6-10 p.m. flight Earlier offiered Juma at the Laboratory masjid and addressed the congregation, the movement is gathering momentum. Also addressed the congregation at the Hazaltala masjid at Khulna after salate Esha.
Addressed the members of the Khulna Bar Association on the duties of the members of legal profession. Also spoke at length on the dangers posed by the book “Islam.”
31st August, 1968, 7 Zamadi-us-Sani, 1389, HIJr, Saturday, Khulna
Went to the Bar Association and addressed the members on the problems facing and the challenge to the conscience posed by Fazlur Rahman’s book. Mixed reaction.
2nd September, 1968, 9 Zamadi-u-sani 1389, Hijri, Monday,
Dacca-Comilla Went to the vacation Bench of the High Court and moved a bail application. Returned home for a quick meal and left for Comilla by personal car reaching Comilla at 4.15 p.m. Impatient crowds waitng for my arrival. Addressed a huge gathering in Comilla Town Hall presided over by Janab Ashrafuddin Ahmad Chowdhury. Tremendous response from the people who are eager for action. Stayed at Madrassa Qasam-ul-Ulum with mosquitoes intermitently disturbing sleep.
3rd September 1968, 10 Zamadi-s-sani, 1389, Hijri, Tuesday,
Comilla-Chittagong
Started for Chittagong by Dacca Mail. Put to great inconvenince
as depsite my repeated requests, the local organisers did not arrange reservation with the result that I had to move like a shuttle from compartment to compartment in a vain attempt to get accomodation. While the train was alreay on the move, succeeded in getting on board in the guard’s compartment. Changed over in Laksham. Maulana Ashraf Ali accompanied me.
Went to Nezame Islam party office in Chittagong and took light refereshment. Drove to Hathazari Madrassah. Warmly received by the students and Mudarrisin of the Madrassah. Stayed in the Madrassah sharing their food and accomodation.
Addressed a big public meeting in the Dakbunglow maidan. for more than an hour. People worked up to high pitch of religious fervour Halted the night in the Madrassah and joined the big jamaat for early salate Fazr.
4th September, 1968, II, Jamadi-us-Sani, 1389, Hijri, Wednesday
Started for Mekhal to pay respect to Hazrat Maulana Mufti Abdul Wahab, revered by millions as a living saint living in seclusion in his rural home. Made the journey firstly by baby taxi and then by a sampan. He entertained me, gave the movement his unreserved blessing and gave his chiocest blessings. He recited a Hadith that with the advance of time, people will be left very Iman, those who wage Jehad in the cause of Allah and His Prophet (Peace be on him) will be entitled to the same degree of felicity as the companions of the Holy Prophet (Peace be on him) himself.
Came back to Hathazari Madrassah and travelled by train to Nazir Hat. At the railway station there was a big crowd to give an affectionate reception. Taken in a procession to the Nasirul Ulum Madrassah. Suffering from acute stomach trouble due to irregularity and excessive rich foods in various places.
With stomach ache and a few painful motions that made me run several times to a distantly situated rural latrine, got for the meeting which was a great success both from the point of view of attendance and audience participation. Started by train a painful slow journey without any water and other facilities in the train. Reached Chittagong at 10-15 p.m. The news of the press conference addressed by Law Minister and Fazlur Rahman in defence of the book “Islam” on 2.9.68.
5th September, 1968, 12 Zamadi-us-Sani, 1389, Hijri, Thursday
Stomach trouble is becoming acute with motions becoming more and more frequent .Started for Satkania Tewarihat at 11 a.m. by car. 2 hours time wasted in crossing the ferry at Dohazari. Reached Tewarihat at 2 p.m. Had quick meal and took plenty of green coconut water to ease the stomach trouble.
There was a huge crowd of about 50,000 to 100,000 people assembled to listen to me from distant places of the Police station. There had never been such a gathering before in living momory. The enthusiasm of the people infected me and when I led prayers at the conclusion of my speech, thousands of people were in tears like children stunned at the shock of great personal loss, was forced to take a quick meal after the salate Maghreb despite my protest and car dashed to Chittagong reaching there at 10 p.m. Came to know of hope protest processions having been taken in the cities of Jhang and Sargoda demanding stern action against Fazlur Rahaman and Zafar.
6th September, 1908, 13 Zamadi us- Sani, 1399, Hiiri, Friday
Salate Juma in Dewan Bazar masjid and then started for Fatehabad meeting near the birth place of the famous Muslim Bengali poet Alaul. It was raining heavily but there being no arrangement of cover for protection against rain water I had to address soaked in water for more than an hour. Principal Rezaul Karim presided over the meeting. Inspite of heavy downpours people did not leave the meeting.
Went to Charia Madrassa and stayed there as the guest of the Madrassa. Read newspapers and learnt that Fazlur Rahman had been forced to resign due to the pressure of public opinion culminating in the violent mass demonstration against him and the autocratic Ayub regime. A silent revolution has taken place albeit the press having deliberately ignored it at least in East Pakistan. Ayub’s Governor air dashed to Pindi to request, Ayub Khan to dismiss Fazlur Rahman and ban the book as he found the weather too hot with the indignation or the people mounting up every day. Every masjid and every Mahfil was converted into centres of discontent against Ayub and Monem.
7th September, 1953, 14 Zamadi-us-Sani, 1389, Hijri, Saturday
Started from Charia Madrassa for Raozan in a baby taxi and reached there by midday. Stayed with Qazi Sahib in Sultanpur, Raozan and had midday meals with him. Addressed a successful meeting and reached Chittagong.
8th September, 1968, 15 Zamadi-ur-Sani 1389 Hijri, Sunday
Reached Chandraghona from Chittagong by baby taxi. Addressed a meeting in the local Jamme masjid in Dubashi Bazar. An officer of D.I.B. showed me a copy of a telephonic message received from DSB, Dacca by his Chittagong counterpart saying that Fazlur Rahman’s book has been proscribed by the Govt. Had great difficulty in returning from Chandraghona as baby taxi drivers refused to go beyond Chandraghona at night.
9th September, 1968,16 Zamadi-us-Sani, 1389 Hijri, Monday.
The car did not come for me as promised. Started by minibus for Chakaria with Maulana Ashraf Ali and Syed Ahmad. Inordinate delay in crossing the ferry. Reached Chakaria at 2 p.m. Learnt that car sent by Rafique Sahib of Cheringa had crossed us .Had lunch at Rafique’s place. Reached meeting place at aerodram near about 4 p.m. Addressed the meeting successfully. Nazir came in a jeep to pick us up. Went with Maulana Siddique and Ashraf Ali reaching C&B 9 30 pm.
10th September, 1968.17 Zamadi us-Sani, 1389 Hijri, Tuesday
Spent a busy morning at home attending to the grievances of the people and trying to help them. Amma was not at home. She had gone to Chittagong to see my ailing sister Roushan Ara. Addressed a big public meeting in front of Cox’s Bazar Public Institute. People all over the sub-division had come to attend the meeting. Relapse of stomach trouble having a teeling effect on strength and efficiency.
11th September, 1968, 18 Zamadi-us-Sani, 1389 Hijri, Wednesday
Started by minibus for Banskhali. Reached Banskhali by baby taxi from Satkania through the hilly ass. Quite a risky journey. Went to Jaldi Madrassa at about 2 p.m. Addressed one of the biggest ever meeting held in Jaldi. Saw people sobbing during my address. Visible demonstration of the love of the Muslims for their Holy Prophet (Peace be on him). Whenever his name is uttered with love, it causes tears to flow. Stayed the night in the Madrassa with the teachers and the students.
12th September, 1968 19 Zamadi-us-Sani, 1389 Hijri, Thursday
Started for Chittagong by baby taxi. The road is hopelessly bad and shakes one to his fibres.
12th September, 1968, 19 Zamadi-us-Sani, 1389 Hijri, Thursday,Chittagong
Reached Chittagong. from Bankshali. Suffering from stomach trouble in an acute form. Addressed a press conference at Hotel Miskha and flew to Dacca reaching home at 7-30 P.M. Did a lot of reading to put myself abreast with the events.
15th September, 1968, 21 Zamadi-us-Sani, 1389 Hijri, Saturday, Pabna
Arrived here yesterday in connection with a civil case between father and his son and took the opportunity in addressing a crowded public meeting. The audience participation was so sincere that they paid money in the meeting for conducting the jehad against the Ayub Govt. for its anti-Islamic deeds. The resignation of Fazlur Rahman created misgivings in public mind about the utility of contiuning the movement further.
16th September, 1968, 27 Zamadi-us-Sani, 1389 Hijri, Friday
Availed the first flight to Chittagong to address a series of meetings on special request from the local people. To-day was fixed for the Ziri meeting but Maulvi Amjad played foul and called it off. He is now in the pay of Mufti Mahmud who came here and tried to do harm to the movement firstly by engaging some moulvies in alleged relief work for which he is reported to have paid a sum of Rs. 30,000/- to the pliant Imam of Chittagong Jame Masjid. Mufti Mahmud also made a feeble attempt to divert the movement by raising anti Qadiani issue though there is no existence of such a problem. Money seems to be no problem with the poorly paid achers of Madrassas while we had been raising funds in public meetings in order to meet the expenses of the movement.
17th September, 1968, 28, Zamadi-us-Sani, 1389 Hijri, Saturday
Went to Bibirhat by train and car via Nazirhat. Local leadership organised the movement and they arranged a warm reception and a slogan chanting long procession lent colour and strength. Addressed a crowded meeting. People vied with each other in paying their donations to me in rupees, annas and paisa. Reached Chittagong by train at 11-30 p.m. and had to forgo meals as it was too late. The delay in the arrival of the train was due to Ayub’s visit to Chittagong. This is the way a dictator interfers with the lives of the people.
18th September, 1968, 29 Zamadi-us-Sani, 1389 Hijri, Sunday,Chittagong
Flew to Dacca by the 1st flight and youngest son Shahid received met at the airport. Attended both the sessions of PDM at the Dacca District Bar Association Hall and delievred a fighting speech. Addressed a crowded meeting on Fazlur Rahman’s book and the anti-Islamic activities of the discredited Ayub-Monem Govt. People gave me warm support.
24th September, 1968, 2 Rajab, 1389 Hijri, Tuesday
Arrived Chowmohani by train from Chittagong. Reception at the Railway station by Maulana Mohibullah and others. Stayed in the house of an Awami league minded businessman who also decided to lend his support to the movement on religious grounds. Addressed a vast gathering at the Heliport. People attained hights of emotions in the name of Islam and paid more than Rs. 500/- on the spot.