Analyzing Statements on the Khilafat Movement

The question asks us to identify the statement about the Khilafat Movement that is NOT correct. Let's examine each statement based on the historical context of the movement.

Detailed Analysis of Each Statement

Let's look at each statement carefully:

1. The Khilafat Movement demanded that the Khalifa must retain control over Muslim holy places.
   • This statement is correct. One of the primary demands of the Khilafat Movement was to protect the position of the Ottoman Caliph (Khalifa), who was seen as the spiritual head of Muslims worldwide, and to ensure his control over the holy places in the Ottoman Empire. The Treaty of Sevres post-World War I threatened the Caliph's authority and the integrity of his territories, which angered Muslims globally, including in India.
2. The radical trend in the Khilafat Movement was represented by younger leaders like Muhammad Ali, Shaukat Ali, and Maulana Azad.
   • This statement is correct. While leaders like Mahatma Gandhi supported and participated in the movement, the forefront of the radical and enthusiastic wing included prominent younger Muslim leaders such as the Ali brothers (Muhammad Ali and Shaukat Ali) and Maulana Abul Kalam Azad. They were instrumental in mobilizing the masses.
3. India Muslim leaders used Khilafat as a symbol that could unite the Indian Muslim community.
   • This statement is correct. The issue of the Caliphate resonated deeply with many Indian Muslims, providing a common cause that transcended regional and sectarian differences. Leaders effectively used the Khilafat issue as a potent symbol to forge unity among various sections of the Muslim community in India against a common perceived threat to their religious identity.
4. The Delhi conference of the Central Khilafat Committee in 1920 decided to launch a massive Non-Cooperation Movement.
   • This statement is NOT correct. While the Central Khilafat Committee, including in its Delhi conference (often cited around late 1919 or early 1920), discussed strategies and non-cooperation as a tactic against the British, the decision to launch the nationwide "massive Non-Cooperation Movement" encompassing various sections of Indian society was primarily taken by the Indian National Congress. Mahatma Gandhi was a key figure who advocated for combining the Khilafat issue with the demand for Swaraj, leading to the Non-Cooperation Movement being jointly supported by the Congress and Khilafat leaders. The formal resolutions by the Congress for initiating the Non-Cooperation Movement were passed at the Calcutta session (September 1920) and ratified at the Nagpur session (December 1920). The Khilafat Committee did endorse and participate enthusiastically in the Non-Cooperation Movement, but it wasn't solely their decision at a specific conference to launch the entire "massive Non-Cooperation Movement."

Based on the analysis, the statement that is NOT correct about the Khilafat Movement is the fourth one.

Identifying the Incorrect Statement on Khilafat Movement

The incorrect statement is that the Delhi conference of the Central Khilafat Committee in 1920 decided to launch a massive Non-Cooperation Movement. The Non-Cooperation Movement was a broader national movement initiated under the leadership of Mahatma Gandhi and the Indian National Congress, although it was closely linked with and supported by the Khilafat leaders and their committee.

Revision Table: Key Facts on Khilafat Movement

Additional Information on Khilafat and Non-Cooperation

The Khilafat Movement emerged in India in response to the treatment of the Ottoman Empire by the Allied powers after World War I. Indian Muslims felt a strong religious connection to the Caliphate and were concerned about its dissolution. This movement provided a crucial opportunity for Hindu-Muslim unity, as Mahatma Gandhi saw it as a chance to unite the nation against British rule.

The Non-Cooperation Movement (1920-1922) was launched by the Indian National Congress under Gandhi's leadership. Its goals included achieving Swaraj (self-rule) and protesting against the Jallianwala Bagh massacre and the injustices faced by the Caliphate. The Khilafat leaders and followers became an integral part of the Non-Cooperation Movement, participating in boycotts, protests, and other forms of non-violent resistance. The movements were effectively intertwined for a period, demonstrating significant inter-community cooperation against British rule.