The correct option is 2 and 3 only.
Explanation
During the Revolt of 1857, several proclamations were issued by the rebels to mobilize support against British rule. The most significant among these were issued in the name of the Mughal Emperor, Bahadur Shah Zafar. These documents served as manifestos outlining the political, social, and economic grievances of the Indian people and articulated the ideological basis of the uprising.
Statement-wise Analysis:
- Statement 1 is Incorrect. The proclamations did not appeal to the people to fight under the standard of Muhammad alone. Instead, they consistently appealed to both Hindus and Muslims to unite against the British. The rebels took great care to ensure that the religious sentiments of both communities were respected; for instance, cow slaughter was banned in Delhi to maintain unity. The appeal was made in the name of both religions to drive out the "infidel" Christians.
- Statement 2 is Correct. The proclamations, such as the famous Azamgarh Proclamation (often associated with the royal house of Delhi), comprehensively addressed the grievances of various sections of society, including zamindars, merchants, public servants, artisans, and soldiers. These grievances were framed as common issues affecting both Hindus and Muslims, particularly the fear of forced conversion to Christianity and the loss of traditional status.
- Statement 3 is Correct. A defining characteristic of the 1857 proclamations was the emphasis on communal harmony and coexistence. The rebels rejected the British "divide and rule" policy and presented a vision of a polity where Hindus and Muslims could coexist and prosper under the legitimate authority of the Indian rulers. The unity displayed during the revolt is considered one of its most significant features.
Key Takeaway:
The proclamations of 1857 were secular in their political appeal, despite using religious rhetoric to mobilize masses. They focused on Hindu-Muslim unity and addressed the material and cultural grievances of all sections of Indian society against colonial rule.