The Rawalpindi Conspiracy: A Pivotal Chapter in Pakistan’s Political History

The Rawalpindi Conspiracy was the first attempted and failed coup d’etat by military officers against the Pakistani Government-headed by Liaquat Ali Khan in 1951. This event marked a significant turning point in the young nation's history, highlighting the complex interplay between military and civilian governance.

Background and Context

The year 1951 was turbulent for Pakistan, just four years after the country's Partition. The Rawalpindi Conspiracy emerged out of growing discontent among military officers and civilians with the then civilian regime, particularly the Prime Minister Liaquat Ali Khan. The dissatisfaction stemmed from perceived inadequate support for Pakistani fighters in the ongoing conflict with India over Kashmir.

The Conspiracy and Its Plotters

Major-General Mohammad Akbar Khan, the Chief of the General Staff, was the principal figure behind the conspiracy. His dissatisfaction with Liaquat Ali Khan's government led him to seek a more robust and decisive leadership in the military. This dissatisfaction was shared by a group of army officers including Brigadier Muhammad Abdul Latif Khan, Captain Khizar Hayat, and Major Ishaq Muhammad. They were joined by influential civilians, such as the poet Faiz Ahmed Faiz, Muhammad Husain Ata (a member of the Communist Party of Pakistan), and Begum Nasim, the wife of Major-General Akbar Khan.

The scheme was reportedly discussed at a meeting held at Major-General Akbar Khan's residence on February 23, 1951. The conspirators planned to stage a coup to overthrow the civilian government and establish a military-led nationalist regime. They believed that with a military regime, Pakistan could effectively manage its internal and external challenges, particularly the conflict in Kashmir.

The Exposure and Aftermath

The coup plot was exposed to the Prime Minister through a confidant of Major-General Akbar Khan. As a result, the plotters were arrested, and a total of 11 army officers and 4 civilians were implicated.

The accused included:

Major-General Akbar Khan Brigadier Muhammad Abdul Latif Khan Faiz Ahmed Faiz Mrs. Nasim Akbar Khan Air Commodore M.K Janjua Major General Nazir Ahmed Brigadier Sadiq Khan Lt. Colonel Ziauddin Lt. Colonel Niaz Muhammad Arbab Capitan Khizar Hayat Major Hassan Khan Major Ishaq Muhammad Capitan Zafarullah Poshni Muhammad Husain Ata Syed Sajjad Zaheer

The conspirators were convicted, and substantial jail sentences were pronounced for each. However, in 1955, all the accused were released, marking a significant moment in the country's legal and political landscape.

The Impact and Consequences

The Rawalpindi Conspiracy set a trend for future coups in Pakistan. Successful coups have often been led by the Chief of the Army with the support of the corps commanders. In contrast, most failed coup attempts have lacked the necessary blessing from senior military leadership, primarily the Army Chief. This event underscored the need for a balance between military and civilian governance in Pakistan.

Conclusion

The Rawalpindi Conspiracy remains a key event in the political history of Pakistan, serving as a cautionary tale about the potential dangers of militarized governance and the importance of democratic processes. Its legacy continues to shape the country's political dynamics, reminding leaders of the delicate balance required to ensure stability and progress.