First World War and British efforts to curb Jihad in NWFP

Abstract

The North-West Frontier Province was the most vulnerable frontier of British India. During the First World War the Frontier was susceptible to international intrigues. The British Government of India feared that the alienated Amir of Afghanistan under the pressure of the Turco-German mission would instigate the tribes on the Ind-o-Afghan border to rise up against the British that would ultimately cause them wind up their Indian empire. Due to the arrival of the mission members and the extensive jihad propaganda by the Mullas for the cause of the Caliphate there was a considerable stir in the region greatly affecting the peace of the Frontier and the Pukhtun recruitment process meant for overseas imperial service. This paper will analyze how the British tactfully countered this challenge with a particular emphasis upon curbing the spirit of jihad among the tribesmen and restoring peace back to the region.