The National Revolutionary Council has called on both Bangladesh and Pakistan to nationally commemorate Nawab Sir Khwaja Salimullah, citing his foundational role in the political awakening of South Asian Muslims and the eventual creation of both states.
The demand was made on Sunday (June 7) during an event marking the 155th birth anniversary of the Muslim League founder and Dhaka University visionary. Council leaders gathered at Nawab Salimullah’s grave at KM Azam Lane in Begumbazar, Dhaka, to offer prayers and pay their respects.
Speaking at the gathering, Council Member Secretary Dr. Nabil Ahmed highlighted Salimullah’s pivotal role in the 1905 Partition of Bengal and his lifelong dedication to advancing modern education for Muslims.
"Nawab Salimullah realized that Muslims could not achieve true freedom without political organization," Dr. Ahmed said. "In 1906, he convened an educational conference in Dhaka, gathering leaders from across the subcontinent to establish the Muslim League, becoming its first president."
Dr. Ahmed noted that the undivided state of Pakistan was established in 1947 under the political framework of the Muslim League. Because independent Bangladesh later emerged from the eastern wing of that state, the Council argued that Nawab Salimullah deserves formal recognition as a foundational figure for both nations.
"Although Bangladesh and Pakistan are separate sovereign states today, we must jointly step forward to preserve our common historical heritage and honor our past leaders," Dr. Ahmed added.
The commemorative program was also attended by Nawab Salimullah Academy Chairman Abdul Jabbar, National Revolutionary Council Convener Khomeini Ihsan, and Executive Committee Member Saidul Islam.
