He argued for women’s education using religious texts.
Explanation
During the 19th century, various social reformers within the Muslim community sought to address social evils and promote modernization. While some focused on western education, others, like Mumtaz Ali, focused on internal social reforms, particularly regarding the status of women, by interpreting religious texts to support progressive values.
Option Analysis
- He founded the Aligarh Muslim University. is incorrect: The Aligarh Muslim University (originally established as the Muhammadan Anglo-Oriental College in 1875) was founded by Sir Syed Ahmed Khan to promote modern scientific education among Muslims.
- He argued for women’s education using religious texts. is correct: Mumtaz Ali was a scholar associated with the Deoband school. He strongly advocated for women's education and equality. He reinterpreted verses from the Quran to argue that the religion supports women's education and rights. He authored the book Huquq-un-Niswan (Rights of Women) in 1898, which is considered a pioneering work in advocating for gender equality within the framework of Islamic law.
- He led the revolt against the British in 1857. is incorrect: The Revolt of 1857 was led by various regional leaders such as Bahadur Shah Zafar, Nana Saheb, Rani Laxmibai, and Begum Hazrat Mahal. Mumtaz Ali is primarily known for his later social reform work rather than military leadership in 1857.
- He wrote the first Urdu novel. is incorrect: The first Urdu novel, Mirat-ul-Uroos (The Bride's Mirror), was written by Deputy Nazir Ahmad in 1869. It also dealt with the theme of female education but is distinct from Mumtaz Ali's theological arguments.
Key Takeaway
Mumtaz Ali is best known for using religious scriptures to validate the cause of women's education and for writing Huquq-un-Niswan to advocate for women's rights in 19th-century India.