The Emergence of the Khilafat Movement in Sargodha: Beginning of Agitational Politics and Impacts on the Freedom Movement
Mustafa Kamal abolished the institution of Khilafat in 1924, but the Sargodha district Khilafat Committee continued its functioning. Peers of Sial Sharif and Bugvis of Bhera played the leading role, while pro-British feudal lords supported the government. Khilafat conferences were held in which high-level Khilafat leaders participated and addressed. Samarna-Fund was collected, and a sum of Rs 9600 was submitted to the Punjab Khilafat Committee. Sialvi and Bugvi visited different towns and villages and conveyed the Khilafat message in simple words. Bugvi was arrested and sent to prison for one and a half year. While on the arrest of Peer of Sial-Sharif, the Muslims of Soon Valley began to offer arrest every day. From the Khilafat movement, Muslims of Sargodha enhanced their awareness and gained experience. They utilized it in Pakistan Movement 1940-47 and received prominent status in any district of Punjab outside Lahore. They challenged their feudal lords of past and rulers of present and, as a powerful factor, won their share in freedom.