In which year Khilafat Movement was started ?

Question

Accepted Answer

The Khilafat Movement was a significant political campaign in India that began in 1919. It was initiated by Indian Muslims to protest against the dismemberment of the Ottoman Empire after World War I and to protect the position of the Ottoman Sultan as the Caliph of Islam. The movement aimed to influence the British government to preserve the authority of the Caliph, who was considered the spiritual leader of Muslims worldwide.

1. **Explanation for Option 3 (1919):**
   - The Khilafat Movement officially started in 1919. This was a response to the Treaty of Versailles and the subsequent Treaty of Sèvres, which threatened the position of the Ottoman Caliphate. Indian Muslims, led by prominent leaders like Maulana Mohammad Ali and Maulana Shaukat Ali, organized this movement to express their discontent and to rally support for the Caliphate. The year 1919 marks the beginning of organized efforts and activities related to the Khilafat cause, making Option 3 the correct answer.

2. **Explanation for why other options are incorrect:**
   - **Option 1 (1921):** By 1921, the Khilafat Movement was already well underway. In fact, this year marked a period of intensified activities and protests, including the Non-Cooperation Movement, which was linked with the Khilafat cause. However, the movement did not start in 1921.
   - **Option 2 (1918):** In 1918, World War I had just ended, and the treaties that would affect the Ottoman Empire were still being negotiated. The Khilafat Movement had not yet begun, as the immediate post-war political landscape was still unfolding.
   - **Option 4 (1920):** By 1920, the Khilafat Movement was already active, with significant events and conferences taking place. The movement gained momentum in 1920, but it did not start in this year.

In conclusion, the Khilafat Movement began in 1919, making Option 3 the correct choice. This year marks the initiation of organized efforts by Indian Muslims to protect the Caliphate, aligning with the historical context and events of that period.