Partition of Bengal 1905
In British India, the province of Bengal was larger than all other provinces in terms of population and area. In 1905, in view of administrative convenience, Bengal was divided into two parts. According to the British, it was not possible for a governor to properly manage such a large and vast province. This division of Bengal resulted in two provinces i.e. East Bengal and West Bengal. Division of Bengal had different effects on Hindus and Muslims. The Muslims were very happy with this partition because there was a majority of Muslims in East Bengal. But Hindus were unhappy with this division as they could not afford to lose their economic and political monopoly over Bengal. It was for this reason that the Hindus refused to accept the partition of Bengal and called for a repeal of this partition. They started a Swadeshi Movement, announced boycott of English goods, stopped payments of taxes and eventually resorted to violence. Under these circumstances, the British government surrendered at last and annulled the partition of Bengal in 1911. The annulment of Bengal caused severe shock to the Muslims.
Simla Deputation 1906
Keeping in view the attitude of the Hindus on the partition of Bengal, the Muslims chose a new way to protect their rights. On 1st October 1906, a Muslim political delegation led by Sir Agha Khan, met Lord Minto, the Viceroy of India at Simla to demand a separate electorate for Muslims. The Viceroy gave a positive response. There was no political party of Muslims at that time. After this event, Muslims intensely felt the need for a political party which was formed as Muslim League and then this party went ahead and created Pakistan.
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