Lucknow Pact (1916)

In the First World War, Britain attacked the Muslim country of Turkey. With this, the Muslim League, which had been loyal to Britain, turned against Britain. They decided to join hands with the Congress. The Congress session held in Lucknow in 1916 was very important. At this conference, the extremists and the moderates decided to work together. The agreement that came into effect at that time was the Lucknow Pact. By this pact, the congress accepted the separate electorates given to the Muslims by the 1909 Act. Lucknow pact was brought about by Tilak and Jinnah. It is also known as the “Congress-League Plan”. It was first time that the congress recognised the Muslim League as the political party representing the Muslims of the region. The pact brought about a change, temporary although, in the attitude of the Muslims towards the "Hindu Congress". Both organisations jointly demanded dominions status for the country. The Lucknow Congress also demanded a further dose of constitutional reforms as a step towards self government.

The main proposals put forward as part of the plan of the Lucknow Pact were,

1. Give self-government to India.

2. Give Indians a majority in the council members. Also give them powers.

3. Ensure Muslim representation in the council.

4. Form separate constituencies, give them priority, and give the members the power to accept or reject laws or decisions.

The Lucknow Pact was submitted to the government in November 1916.