IT is disheartening to see Jinnah’s vision having been reduced to mere textbook slogans and ceremonial tributes, stripped of its true depth and significance. The essence of his struggle — marked by resilience, strategy and unwavering resolve — has been overshadowed by political rhetoric and ideological oversi-mplifications.

His legal, political, and strategic battles were not only against the British Empire and the Indian National Congress (INC), but also against ethnic and cultural fragmentation within the Muslim community in undivided India. These internal challenges, often neglected in our historical narratives, were as formidable as his external adversaries.

While some argue that glossing over pre-partition differences was necessary for nation-building, the fact is that acknowledging these divisions actually amplifies the brilliance of Jinnah’s vision. His Pakistan was not simply a homeland for Muslims; it was a unifying force for diverse ethnicities, languages as well as traditions to coexist under a collective identity.

The ability to inspire this unity amidst diversity demonstrates his exceptional leadership, which was an astute blend of pragmatism, foresight and an unyielding commitment to securing the rights, identity and dignity of Muslims in the subcontinent.

To truly grasp the resilience Jinnah exhibited in the face of adversity, we must delve deeper into the socio-political fabric of pre-1947 India. Only by studying the complexities of that era can we begin to appreciate the immense challenges Jinnah overcame, and the monumental vision he championed for millions across the subcontinent.

Unfortunately, instead of nurturing an informed citizenry, our institutions have perpetuated oversimplified and superficial narratives. These have failed to capture the full depth of Jinnah’s leadership, his strategic brilliance, the formidable obs-tacles he faced, and the personal sacrifices he made.

By focussing on convenient and narrow interpretations of history, we have failed to convey the true essence of his struggle and the transformative power of his leadership. This failure to educate future generations about the complexi-ties of Jinnah’s journey undermines the very foundation of his amazing legacy and the lessons we must learn from it.

Muhammad Usama
Gujranwala

Published in Dawn, December 25th, 2024