Editorial - On the 36th death anniversary of Khan Abdul Ghaffar Khan, affectionately called Bacha Khan, we honor a South Asian freedom fighter whose legacy of peace and nonviolence inspires generations.. His contributions to the independence movement of the Indian subcontinent and his lifelong struggle for the upliftment of the Pashtun community remain unparalleled. The ceremonies at the Bacha Khan Center in Peshawar serve as a moment of reflection, reverence, and renewal of his ideals.
Bacha Khan was born in 1890 in the village of Utmanzai, in the present-day Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province of Pakistan. From an early age, he exhibited a keen awareness of the social injustices inflicted upon his people under British colonial rule. He was not just a political leader but a visionary reformer, educator, and advocate for equality. As a young man, he recognized that education was the most powerful tool to awaken the consciousness of the Pashtun people, who were trapped in the chains of poverty, illiteracy, and feudal exploitation.
At The Age of 20, Bacha Khan opened his first madrasa in his hometown, a bold step toward empowering his community through education. He believed that knowledge was the key to freedom and progress. By 1921, he had established the Anjuman-e-Islah-e-Afaghina (Afghan Reform Society), which promoted social reform, education, and unity among Pashtuns. This society laid the groundwork for his later movements and became a platform to address the grievances of his people.
Bacha Khan’s Greatest Contribution was his unwavering commitment to nonviolence. Inspired by Islamic teachings and influenced by Mahatma Gandhi, he founded the Khudai Khidmatgar (Servants of God) Movement in 1929. This movement was a unique and courageous response to British colonial oppression. It mobilized thousands of Pashtuns to embrace nonviolence as a means of resistance, proving that the pen and the heart could be mightier than the sword.
Despite Being Unarmed, the Khudai Khidmatgars endured brutal violence from the British authorities. One of the most tragic incidents was the Qissa Khwani Bazaar massacre, where British forces killed hundreds of peaceful protesters. Instead of retaliating with violence, Bacha Khan and his followers chose to persevere with even greater resolve. This steadfast commitment to nonviolence made him a global symbol of peace and resilience.
Bacha Khan’s life was marked by immense personal sacrifice. Following the partition of India in 1947, he found himself in opposition to the creation of Pakistan, fearing it would lead to further marginalization of his people. His warnings were prophetic. The new state viewed him with suspicion, leading to his repeated imprisonment and persecution. The Babrra massacre of 1948, where over 700 unarmed Khudai Khidmatgars were killed by government forces, was a harrowing example of the hostility he faced.
Even Under These Dire Circumstances, Bacha Khan remained true to his principles. He refused to accept any position of power or compromise his values, even when the government offered him ministries and privileges. His opposition to the One Unit Scheme in 1956, which sought to centralize power and suppress regional identities, further cemented his legacy as a champion of justice and democracy.
Bacha Khan’s Philosophy and sacrifices earned him recognition beyond the borders of South Asia. In 1962, Amnesty International named him "Prisoner of the Year," highlighting his role as a beacon for prisoners of conscience worldwide. He received numerous accolades, including the Jawaharlal Nehru Award for International Understanding in 1967 and India’s highest civilian award, the Bharat Ratna, in 1987. These honors reflect his stature as a global statesman whose influence transcended national and cultural boundaries.
Despite His Global Recognition, Bacha Khan remained deeply rooted in the struggles of his people. He spent his final years opposing projects like the Kalabagh Dam, which he feared would harm the livelihoods of Pashtuns in the Peshawar valley. His resistance to such initiatives showcased his unwavering commitment to the welfare of his community.
Bacha Khan’s message of peace and nonviolence is as relevant today as it was during his lifetime. In an era marked by conflict, polarization, and inequality, his philosophy serves as a guiding light. He believed that education was the cornerstone of progress and established over 100 schools to empower Pashtun children with knowledge and a sense of identity. He advocated for women’s rights, social justice, and communal harmony, laying the foundation for an inclusive and equitable society.
His Life Reminds us that true leadership is about service, humility, and resilience. He once said, “You have to stand for truth, no matter the cost. Truth and justice are worth any sacrifice.” These words resonate today, urging us to uphold the values of peace, unity, and justice in our own lives.
As We Honor Bacha Khan’s Memory, let us draw inspiration from his unwavering dedication to humanity. His life was a testament to the power of nonviolence, education, and selfless service. The challenges he faced, the sacrifices he made, and the legacy he left behind remind us that one person can ignite a movement that transforms the world.
Bacha Khan’s Journey was not just about the independence of a nation but the liberation of minds and souls. On this day, we pledge to carry forward his vision, striving for a world where peace prevails over violence, unity triumphs over division, and education becomes a universal right. May his spirit continue to guide us as we build a better, more compassionate future for all.