The Khudai Khidmatgar movement was created by Bacha Khan, who sought to promote nonviolent resistance and social reform in the North-West Frontier Province (NWFP) of British India, which later became part of Pakistan. This movement gained traction in the early part of the 20th century, particularly during the struggle for Indian independence. Following the partition of India in 1947, the region faced immense political turmoil, ethnic conflict, and rising tensions as newly formed nation-states began to define their identity amidst diverse populations.

On this day, a police action was initiated against the Khudai Khidmatgar members who were advocating for political rights and social justice. The police reportedly opened fire on unarmed protestors, leading to a significant loss of life. The degree of violence varied in reports, with estimates ranging from 15 to 150 fatalities, highlighting the ongoing chaos and disorder prevalent in the newly established Pakistan.

This tragic incident reflected the broader atmosphere of uncertainty in Pakistan, where various groups were vying for recognition and rights in a time of national identity formation. The governmental response to such activism through violence indicated the fragile state of political peace in the region and the lengths to which authorities would go to quash dissent.