This study offers a reappraisal of some important themes relating to Indian nationalism and the growth of community-oriented formations, which are described in historical literature as 'communal' or 'separatist'. Its central concern, however, is to analyse how various segments among Muslims related to and defined their relationship with nationalist forces, spear­headed by the Indian National Congress. This exercise is backed by an examination of several vital issues which reflect on the Congress move­ment, the structure of its support amongst Muslims and the crucial...