Jinnah's Amendments & Fourteen Points: Demands for Autonomy & Representation

Jinnah’s Amendments and Fourteen Points: Seeking Muslim Rights

In December 1928, Jinnah proposed amendments to the Nehru Report, including Muslim representation and provincial powers. These were not adopted. In March 1929, Jinnah's Fourteen Points outlined demands for a federal constitution, autonomy, and Muslim representation, shaping the Muslim League's stance.

• Context: Jinnah proposed amendments to the Nehru Report at the All Parties Conference in Calcutta, December 1928.
• Proposed Amendments:
  • One-third Muslim representation in the central legislature.
  • Muslim seat reservations in Bengal and Punjab proportionate to population.
  • Residual powers to provinces.
• Outcome: The amendments were not included in the final report.

Jinnah’s Fourteen Points: Defining Muslim Demands

• Overview: In March 1929, Jinnah presented fourteen points that became the basis of the Muslim League's future platform.
• The Fourteen Points:
  • Federal Constitution with residual powers to provinces.
  • Provincial autonomy.
  • No central constitutional amendment without state concurrence.
  • Adequate Muslim representation in all legislatures and elected bodies.
  • Adequate Muslim representation in services and self-governing bodies.
  • One-third Muslim representation in the central legislature.
  • One-third Muslim representation in central and provincial cabinets.
  • Separate electorates.
  • No bill passed if three-fourths of a minority deem it against their interests.
  • No territorial redistribution affecting Muslim majorities in Punjab, Bengal, and NWFP.
  • Separation of Sindh from Bombay.
  • Constitutional reforms in NWFP and Baluchistan.
  • Full religious freedom.
  • Protection of Muslim rights in religion, culture, education, and language.