Khan Abdul Ghaffar Khan
Explanation
Khan Abdul Ghaffar Khan was a prominent Pashtun independence activist and a close associate of Mahatma Gandhi. He is renowned for introducing the principles of non-violence (Ahimsa) and Satyagraha to the martial Pashtun society in the North-West Frontier Province (NWFP).Detailed Analysis:
- Founding of Khudai Khidmatgars: In 1929, Khan Abdul Ghaffar Khan founded the Khudai Khidmatgars (literally "Servants of God"). It was a non-violent social reform and freedom movement.
- Red Shirts: The volunteers of this organization wore red uniforms, earning them the popular nickname "Red Shirts" (Surkh Posh).
- Titles: He was affectionately known as "Badshah Khan" (King of Chiefs) and "Frontier Gandhi" (Sarhadi Gandhi) due to his lifelong adherence to Gandhian values and methods.
- Role in Freedom Struggle: The Khudai Khidmatgars played a pivotal role during the Civil Disobedience Movement (1930). Their peaceful resistance in Peshawar led to the Qissa Khwani Bazaar massacre, where British troops opened fire on unarmed protesters.
- Political Stance: He was a staunch opponent of the partition of India and the two-nation theory.
Key Takeaway:
Khan Abdul Ghaffar Khan, known as "Frontier Gandhi" and "Badshah Khan," founded the Khudai Khidmatgars (Red Shirts) to lead a non-violent struggle against British rule in the North-West Frontier Province.