Simla Deputation

The deputation aimed to convince Lord Minto, the viceroy of India, to grant Muslims greater representation in politics.

Minto, finding himself sympathetic to the demands of the Muslims, put many of them into law through the Indian Councils Act 1909, granting the wishes of the deputation.

Its leader, Sayyid Ahmad Khan, strengthened the Muslim community in northern India by drawing them to his pro-British writings and gatherings.

The Muslims of East Bengal, led by Syed Nawab Ali Chowdhury, found an increased power and voice to be used to push for better employment opportunities, education, and political representation.

[11] Hearing Morley's speech, Muhammad Ismail Khan, a member of the legislative council of the United Provinces, as well as other notable people within politics,[12] wrote to Mohsin-ul-Mulk, successor of Syed Ahmad Khan, suggesting an effort to increase Muslim representation in local councils.

[2][b] Historian Peter Hardy argues that the deputation knew that Lord Minto would be somewhat receptive to their requests, or at least that he would not be openly hostile towards them.

[2] The address which had been sent beforehand contained the desires of the deputation – that Muslims, based on their population within India ("numerical strength"), should have a proportionate share of the vote and separate electorates, supported by the idea that having been the rulers of India during the period of the Mughal Empire, Muslims had a higher amount of "political importance".

[15][16] Any kind of representation, direct or indirect, and in all other ways affecting their status and influence, should be commensurate not merely with the numerical strength but also with their political importance.