32.INA II Two Nation Theory and Partition of India Independence Act 1947 Flashcards
Who initially proposed the idea of creating an army out of Indian prisoners of war?
Mohan Singh, an Indian army officer, originally proposed the idea of creating an army out of Indian prisoners of war.
To whom did Mohan Singh turn for help in recruiting Indian prisoners of war?
Mohan Singh turned to the Japanese for help in recruiting Indian prisoners of war.
How many men were ready to join the Indian National Army by the end of 1942?
By the end of 1942, 40,000 men were ready to join the Indian National Army.
When was the first division of the Indian National Army formed?
The first division of the Indian National Army was formed in September 1942.
Who arrived in Singapore and boosted the Indian National Army during the second phase?
Subhash Chandra Bose arrived in Singapore and boosted the Indian National Army during the second phase.
Whom did Subhash Chandra Bose meet in Tokyo under the pseudo name Abid Hussain?
Subhash Chandra Bose met the Japanese prime minister, Tojo, in Tokyo under the pseudo name Abid Hussain.
Where did Rashbehari Bose flee to following the failed revolutionary activities?
Rashbehari Bose fled to Japan in 1915 following the failed revolutionary activities.
What efforts did Rashbehari Bose make in Japan?
Rashbehari Bose made efforts to get the Japanese interested in the Indian independence movement. He became active in Pan-Asian circles, founded the Indian Club of Tokyo, and gave lectures on the evils of Western imperialism.
Where was the conference held where it was decided to place the Indian National Army under the Indian Independence League?
The conference was held in Bangkok, which was under Japanese occupation at the time.
Who was the chairman of the Indian Independence League?
Rashbehari Bose himself was the chairman of the Indian Independence League.
Who transferred the control and leadership of the Indian Independence League and the INA to Subhash Bose?
Rashbehari Bose happily transferred the control and leadership of the Indian Independence League and the INA to Subhash Bose in July 1943.
What role did Rash Behari Bose play in the organization of the Indian National Army?
Rash Behari Bose’s organizational spadework laid the foundation for Subhash Bose to build up the Indian National Army (INA).
When did Subhas Bose become the Supreme Commander of the INA?
Subhas Bose became the Supreme Commander of the INA on August 25.
When did Rashbehari Bose pass away?
Rashbehari Bose’s health deteriorated, and he died on January 21, 1945, at the age of 58.
When was the Provisional Government for Free India formed by Subhas Bose?
The Provisional Government for Free India was formed by Subhas Bose on October 21, 1943, in Singapore.
Who were some members of the Provisional Government for Free India?
H.C. Chatterjee (Finance portfolio), M.A. Aiyar (Broadcasting), Lakshmi Swaminathan (Women Department), and others were members of the Provisional Government for Free India.
Where was the slogan “Give me blood, I will give you freedom” given?
The slogan “Give me blood, I will give you freedom” was given in Malaya.
Where was the slogan “Give me blood, I will give you freedom” given?
The slogan “Give me blood, I will give you freedom” was given in Malaya.
What did the Provisional Government for Free India declare?
The Provisional Government for Free India declared war on Britain and the United States and was recognized by the Axis powers.
What was the name of the women’s regiment formed within the INA?
The women’s regiment formed within the INA was called the Rani Jhansi Regiment.
When was the INA headquarters shifted to Rangoon?
The INA headquarters was shifted to Rangoon in January 1944.
What war cry did the army recruits of the INA march with from Rangoon?
The army recruits of the INA marched from Rangoon with the war cry “Chalo Delhi!” on their lips.
On which date did Subhas Bose address Mahatma Gandhi as ‘Father of Nation’?
Subhas Bose addressed Mahatma Gandhi as ‘Father of Nation’ on July 6, 1944.
What did Subhas Bose ask for from Gandhi in his address?
Subhas Bose asked for Gandhi’s blessings for “India’s last war of independence.”
Which INA battalion accompanied the Japanese Army to the Indo Burma front?
One INA battalion commanded by Shah Nawaz was allowed to accompany the Japanese Army to the Indo Burma front.
What campaign did the INA participate in during their time on the Indo Burma front?
The INA participated in the Imphal campaign during their time on the Indo Burma front.
How did the Japanese treat the Indian soldiers in the INA?
The Indian soldiers in the INA received discriminatory treatment from the Japanese, including being denied rations and arms and being made to do menial work for the Japanese units.
How did the discriminatory treatment from the Japanese affect the morale of the INA units?
The discriminatory treatment from the Japanese disgusted and demoralized the INA units.
On which date did the Azad Hind Fauz cross the Burma border and enter Indian soil?
The Azad Hind Fauz crossed the Burma border and stood on Indian soil on March 18, 1944.
What territories did the INA units advance up to?
The INA units advanced up to Kohima and Imphal.
How long did the INA carry out military administration duties at Moirang?
The INA carried out military administration duties at Moirang for three months.
When did the Allied forces reclaim the territory from the INA?
The Allied forces reclaimed the territory from the INA after three months of their military administration duties at Moirang.
When did the surrender of Japan in the Second World War take place?
The surrender of Japan in the Second World War took place on August 15, 1945.
On which date did Subhas Bose reportedly die in an air crash?
Subhas Bose reportedly died in an air crash on August 18, 1945, in Taipei (Taiwan).
What movement emerged in defense of the INA POWs brought back to India after the war?
A powerful movement known as the INA Trials emerged in defense of the INA POWs brought back to India after the war.
What were the INA Trials also known as?
The INA Trials were also known as the Indian National Army trials and the Red Fort trials.
When did the INA Trials take place?
The INA Trials took place between November 1945 and May 1946.
What were the charges faced by the officers of the Indian National Army during the trials?
The charges included treason, torture, murder, and abetment to murder during the Second World War.
Who organized the defense of INA prisoners in court?
The defense of INA prisoners in court was organized by Bhulabhai Desai, Tej Bahadur Sapru, Kailash Nath Katju, Jawaharlal Nehru, and Asaf Ali.
What support did the Indian National Congress declare for the INA cause?
At the first post-War Congress session in September 1945, the Indian National Congress declared its support for the INA cause.
What activities were carried out by the INA Relief and Enquiry Committee?
The INA Relief and Enquiry Committee distributed small sums of money and food to the affected individuals and helped arrange employment. They also organized fund collection.
When did the courts martial of former personnel of the British Indian Army fighting in the INA ranks or supporting the INA’s activities take place?
The courts martial of former personnel of the British Indian Army took place in 1943 and 1944.
What were the charges in the earlier INA trials?
The charges in the earlier trials were of “Committing a civil offense contrary to the Section 41 of the Indian Army Act, 1911 or the Section 41 of the Burma Army Act,” with the offense specified as “Waging War against the King” contrary to the Section 121 of the Indian Penal Code.
Why was a selective policy adopted for charging the accused in the INA trials?
The large number of INA troops captured by Commonwealth forces made it necessary to adopt a selective policy and charge those accused of the worst allegations.
Who were the defendants in the first joint trial of the INA trials?
The defendants in the first joint trial were Shah Nawaz Khan, Prem Sahgal, and Gurbaksh Singh Dhillon.
Where were the INA trials held?
The decision was made to hold the INA trials at the Red Fort.
What political issue did the Indian National Congress make the release of the three defendants during the INA trials?
The release of the three defendants became an important political issue for the Indian National Congress during the agitation for independence in 1945-46.
What was the purpose of the INA Defence Committee established by the Indian National Congress?
The INA Defence Committee was established to defend the officers of the Indian National Army who were to be charged during the INA trials. They were also responsible for coordinating information on captive INA troops and arranging relief for them after the war.
Who were some of the famous lawyers included in the Congress’ defense team for the INA during the trials?
Some of the famous lawyers included in the defense team were Bhulabhai Desai, Asaf Ali, Sharat Chandra Bose, Tej Bahadur Sapru, and Kailash Nath Katju.
What was the impact of the Red Fort trials on the Indian population?
The Red Fort trials made many Indians familiar with the INA’s fight for independence and generated sympathy for them across the country. This led to demonstrations in solidarity with the captured troops in different parts of India.
How did the Congress perceive the support for the INA soldiers during the trials?
The Congress recognized the widespread support for the INA soldiers as an opportunity to reignite the enthusiasm and desire for independence in the country.
What was the defense argument presented by the INA Defense Committee during the trials?
The defense argued that the actions of the INA troops were legal and within the terms of the Indian National Army Act, making them exempt from the Indian Penal Code and the Indian Army Act.
What was the verdict and punishment given to the three INA members?
The three INA members were found guilty of waging war. They were dismissed from service and sentenced to transportation for life, which was later remitted.
How were the released INA members received by the public and the Congress?
The released INA members were welcomed as heroes, and the Congress fully supported and celebrated their release.
What was the Royal Indian Navy mutiny or revolt?
The Royal Indian Navy mutiny or revolt, also known as the 1946 Naval Uprising, was an insurrection of Indian naval ratings, soldiers, police personnel, and civilians against the British government in India.
When did the Royal Indian Navy mutiny break out?
The mutiny of the Royal Indian Navy (RIN) broke out on February 18, 1946.
What impact did the Royal Indian Navy mutiny have on the British Raj?
The mutiny delivered a mortal blow to the entire structure of the British Raj in India.
Why were the ratings of the RIN resentful of their English superiors?
The ratings of the RIN, having served abroad and being familiar with the outside world, were resentful of the racist behavior of their English superiors.
What was the underlying unrest that contributed to the Royal Indian Navy mutiny?
There was unrest building up in the country, especially over the INA trials, which added to the grievances of the naval ratings.
What action did the ratings of “Talwar” in Bombay harbor take to protest?
On February 18, 1946, the ratings of “Talwar” in Bombay harbor went on a hunger strike to protest against bad food and racial arrogance.
How did the mutiny spread among the naval ships and barracks?
Other ships in the neighborhood followed suit the next day, and the mutiny soon spread to the Castle and the Fort Barracks on the shore.
Who was the head of the Naval Committee elected by the mutineers?
The Naval Committee was headed by MS Khan.
What were the demands made by the mutineers?
The demands made by the mutineers were:
*Release of INA prisoners
*Freedom of all other political prisoners
*Withdrawal of Indian troops from Indo-China and Java
*Better food
*More civilized treatment
*Equal pay for European and Indian Sailors alike
How many ships and shore establishments were involved in the revolt?
The revolt involved 78 ships and 20 shore establishments.
What happened on February 20th during the mutiny?
On February 20th, the ratings in the Barracks were surrounded by armed guards, and the mutineers in the ships were threatened with destruction by British members.
How widespread was the mutiny by February 22nd?
By February 22nd, the mutiny had spread to all naval bases in the country, involving 78 ships, 20 shore establishments, and 20,000 ratings.
What kind of response did the mutineers receive from the public?
The mutineers received unprecedented popular response, with demonstrations of support by Hindu and Muslim students and workers in Karachi, leading to violent clashes with the army and police.
How did the public in Bombay show support for the mutineers?
The public in Bombay expressed emotional sympathy for the mutineers by hailing them, providing them with food, and shopkeepers allowing them to take whatever articles they liked.
Which political parties called for a general strike in support of the mutineers?
The Communists, with the support of the Congress Socialists, called for a general strike on February 22nd in support of the mutineers.
How many workers participated in the general strike despite directives from the Congress and the League?
Despite directives from the Congress and the League, 300,000 workers defied them and came out of factories and mills to take to the streets on February 22nd.
What were the consequences of the mutiny?
Several hundred people died and thousands suffered injuries during the two days of the mutiny. The mutineers received no support from national political leaders, and Mahatma Gandhi condemned the riots and the revolt.
Who persuaded the ratings to surrender, and when did they surrender?
Vallabhbhai Patel and Jinnah jointly persuaded the ratings to surrender on February 23rd.
What assurance was given to the ratings upon their surrender, and was it fulfilled?
The Congress and the League gave an assurance that they would prevent any victimization of the ratings, but this assurance was soon forgotten.
How did the Muslim League view the mutiny?
The Muslim League criticized the mutiny, arguing that the unrest among the sailors should not be expressed on the streets, regardless of the seriousness of their grievances.
According to whom could legitimacy be conferred upon a movement?
Legitimacy could probably be conferred by a recognized political leadership, according to the views expressed.
Besides the INA and RIN agitations, what were some other direct anti-imperialist confrontations taking place?
Other direct anti-imperialist confrontations were taking place contemporaneously in different parts of the country, although not of the same magnitude and significance as the INA and RIN agitations.
Can you provide an example of another protest that took place during that time?
One example is the protest against the government’s decision to cut down ration supplies to the civilian population, which led to 80,000 people demonstrating in Allahabad in mid-February 1946.
Where did a widespread police strike occur under the influence of leftists?
The widespread police strike took place in Malabar, Bihar, eastern Bengal (particularly in Dacca), the Andamans, and even in Delhi.
What action did the postal employees take in July 1946?
The postal employees decided to defy the authorities and went on strike for a period of time in July 1946.
What happened in Calcutta on July 29, 1946?
In Calcutta, people observed a total and peaceful general strike in support of the postal employees’ cause, following the call of the Communists.
What guarantee did the mutineers receive upon surrendering?
Upon surrendering, the mutineers received a guarantee from the Indian National Congress and the All-India Muslim League that none of them would be persecuted.
What precautionary measures were taken after the mutiny?
Precautionary measures included removing firing mechanisms from warships, locking up small arms, and deploying army troops as guards on board warships and shore establishments.
What did Clement Attlee announce following the mutiny?
Clement Attlee announced the Cabinet Mission to India in response to the mutiny.
How did British authorities label the 1946 Indian Naval Mutiny?
British authorities in 1948 branded the mutiny as a “larger communist conspiracy raging from the Middle East to the Far East against the British crown.”
What revelation was made during a seminar discussion in 1967?
During the seminar discussion in 1967, it was revealed by the British High Commissioner at that time, John Freeman, that the mutiny of 1946 had raised fears of another large-scale mutiny similar to the Indian Rebellion of 1857. This revelation indicated that the mutiny was a significant factor in the British decision to leave India.
Who led the attack on the Congress in 1887?
Dufferin, the viceroy, and Colvin, the Lt. Governor of the United Provinces, led the attack on the Congress in 1887.
Who were propped up as an anti-Congress front by the government?
Syed Ahmed Khan and Raja Shiv Prasad of Bhinga were propped up as an anti-Congress front by the government.
Who led the Muslim delegation to Lord Minto in 1906?
Agha Khan led the Muslim delegation, also known as the Shimla delegation, to Lord Minto in 1906.
Who founded the All-India Muslim League?
The All-India Muslim League was founded by Agha Khan, Nawab Salimullah of Dacca, Nawab Mohsin-ul-Mulk, and Nawab Waqar-ul-Mulk.
What was awarded under the Morley-Minto Reforms in 1909?
Separate electorates were awarded under the Morley-Minto Reforms in 1909.
Who founded the Punjab Hindu Sabha?
The Punjab Hindu Sabha was founded by U.N. Mukherji and Lal Chand.
Who held the first session of All India Hindu Mahasabha in 1915?
The Maharaja of Kasim Bazar held the first session of All India Hindu Mahasabha in 1915.
During which period was the Muslim League dominated by younger Muslim nationalists?
The Muslim League was dominated by younger Muslim nationalists during the period from 1912 to 1924.
When did the Congress accept the Muslim League’s demand for separate electorates?
The Congress accepted the Muslim League’s demand for separate electorates in 1916.
In which agitations did Muslims participate from 1920 to 1922?
Muslims participated in the Rowlatt and Khilafat Non-Cooperation agitations from 1920 to 1922.
What movements were initiated by the Arya Samajists and Muslims in the 1920s?
The Arya Samajists initiated the Shuddhi (purification) and Sangathan (organization) movements, while the Muslims started the Tabligh and Tanzim movements.
What accusation did the Ali brothers make against the Congress?
The Ali brothers accused the Congress of protecting only Hindu interests.
What challenge did the Congress face in countering the rise of communalism?
The Congress failed to evolve a suitable strategy to counter the rise of communalism.
When was the Nehru Report on constitutional reforms opposed by Muslim hardliners and the Sikh League?
The Nehru Report on constitutional reforms was opposed by Muslim hardliners and the Sikh League in 1928.
What were the 14 points proposed by Jinnah?
Jinnah proposed 14 points, which included demands for separate electorates and reservation for Muslims in government service and self-governing bodies.
What mistakes did the Congress make while negotiating with the Muslim League?
The Congress made several mistakes while negotiating with the Muslim League, including giving legitimacy to the politics of the League, undermining the role of secular, nationalist Muslims, prompting other communities to demand similar concessions, and making it difficult to launch an all-out attack on communalism.
Name some Muslim groups that were active during 1930-34.
Some Muslim groups that were active during 1930-34 include the Jamaat-i-ulema-i-Hind, State of Kashmir, and Khudai Khidmatgars.
Did the Congress participate in all the round table conferences held in London?
No, the Congress stayed away from two of the three round table conferences held in London to discuss further constitutional reforms.
What did the Communal Award of 1932 accept?
The Communal Award of 1932 accepted all Muslim communal demands contained in the 14 points.
What was the response of the Muslim League after performing badly in the 1937 provincial elections?
After performing badly in the 1937 provincial elections, the Muslim League decided to resort to extreme communalism.
Who proposed the idea of a separate Muslim nation in the early 1930s?
The idea of a separate Muslim nation was proposed by a young Muslim intellectual Rahmat Ali in the early 1930s.
How did communalism transform into a mass movement after 1937?
Communalism transformed into a mass movement with its base among middle and upper classes, and vicious propaganda was launched against the Congress by various individuals.
What characterized the extreme communalism of Muslims during this period?
Extreme communalism of Muslims was based on fear, hatred, and violence of word and deed.
What was the nature of communalism before 1937?
Before 1937, communalism had a more liberal character, focusing on safeguards and reservations while upholding certain liberal, democratic, humanistic, and nationalistic values.
Which Hindu organizations and leaders represented militant communal nationalism during this period?
Hindu organizations such as the Hindu Mahasabha and RSS, along with leaders like Golwalkar, represented militant communal nationalism among Hindus.
What demand did Jinnah make to block avenues for conciliation in 1937?
Jinnah demanded that the Congress should declare itself a Hindu organization and recognize the Muslim League as the sole representative of the Indian Muslims.
When was the ‘Pakistan Resolution’ passed and what did it call for?
The ‘Pakistan Resolution’ was passed on March 24, 1940, at the Lahore session of the Muslim League. It called for the grouping of Muslim majority areas into independent states with autonomous and sovereign constituent units, along with adequate safeguards for Muslims in minority areas.
Q3: What privilege did the British India Government grant to the Muslim League during the Second World War?
During the Second World War, the British India Government gave a virtual veto to the Muslim League on political settlement.
What was the demand of the Muslim League throughout the negotiations under various proposals and plans?
The Muslim League stuck to its demand for a separate Pakistan throughout the negotiations under the August Offer, Cripps’ proposals, Shimla Conference, and Cabinet Mission Plan.
Which regions were included in the independent Pakistan as aspired by the Muslim League in 1947?
The independent Pakistan comprised Muslim majority areas of Punjab, Sindh, Balochistan, North-West Frontier Province, and Bengal in 1947.
Who proposed the Rajagopalachari Formula?
C. Rajagopalachari, also known as Rajaji, proposed the Rajagopalachari Formula or Rajaji Formula.
What was the purpose of the Rajagopalachari Formula?
The Rajagopalachari Formula was proposed to break the political impasse between the Indian National Congress and the All India Muslim League.
What role did the British government play during the Second World War in terms of decision-making for India?
The British government announced that any decision for the Indian state would only be implemented if both the All India Muslim League and the Indian National Congress agreed unanimously on the decision.
What was the stance of the All India Muslim League and the Indian National Congress regarding the division of the Indian nation?
The All India Muslim League increasingly called for a separate nation, Pakistan, for the sake of Muslims, while the Indian National Congress was opposed to splitting the Indian nation.
What did the Rajagopalachari Formula propose regarding the partition of India?
The Rajagopalachari Formula proposed the partition of India, with Muslims being given their own country based on their predominance in certain regions.
How did members of the Indian National Congress react to the Rajagopalachari Formula?
Members of the Indian National Congress disagreed with the formula and were opposed to it.
What was the outcome of Gandhi’s attempt to discuss the Rajagopalachari Formula with Jinnah?
Gandhi’s attempt to talk to Jinnah about the formula was unsuccessful, as Jinnah had rejected the plans.
When did Gandhi approach Jinnah to discuss the C R Formula?
Gandhi approached Jinnah in September 1944.
What was the outcome of the talks between Gandhi and Jinnah regarding the C R Formula?
The talks between Gandhi and Jinnah failed to reach an agreement, and the formula was declared a failure just two weeks after their meeting.
What did Jinnah urge the Indian National Congress to do regarding partition?
Jinnah urged the Indian National Congress to consent to the partition and support the two-nation doctrine.
What was Jinnah’s desired approach to voting in the majority areas?
Jinnah desired that only the Muslim people in majority areas vote, rather than the entire community, meaning non-Muslims would not have a vote.
What were Jinnah’s plans before the British left the country?
Jinnah planned to form autonomous provinces before the British left the country.
Who were the key figures involved in the Desai-Liaqat Plan?
The key figures involved in the Desai-Liaqat Plan were Morarji Desai from the Indian National Congress and Liaquat Ali Khan from the Muslim League.
When did the talks between Desai and Liaquat Ali Khan take place?
The talks between Desai and Liaquat Ali Khan took place during the period of 1942 to 1945, while Mohandas Gandhi and the Congress Working Committee were arrested during the Quit India movement.
What was the objective of the Desai-Liaqat Plan?
The objective of the Desai-Liaqat Plan was to negotiate an agreement for a future coalition government that would bring Hindus and Muslims together and resolve the deadlock between the Indian National Congress and the Muslim League.
What were the key provisions of the draft proposal for the formation of an interim government?
The key provisions included an equal number of persons nominated by the Congress and the League in the central legislature and the reservation of 20% seats for minorities.
What was the major concession made by Liaquat Ali Khan in the Pact?
Liaquat Ali Khan gave up the demand for a separate Muslim state in exchange for parity of Muslims-to-Hindus in the council of ministers.
Was the Desai-Liaqat Plan formally endorsed by the Congress and the League?
No, the Desai-Liaqat Plan was not formally endorsed by either the Congress or the League, despite M.K. Gandhi’s attempt to resolve the political deadlock through this initiative.
When was the Cabinet Mission sent to India?
The Cabinet Mission was sent to India in February 1946.
Who initiated the formation of the Cabinet Mission?
Clement Atlee, the British Prime Minister, initiated the formation of the Cabinet Mission.
Who were the members of the Cabinet Mission?
The members of the Cabinet Mission were Lord Pethick-Lawrence (Chairman), AV Alexander, and Sir Stafford Cripps.
What were the fundamental ideological differences between the Congress Party and the Muslim League?
The Congress Party desired a strong central government with limited powers delegated to the provinces, while the Muslim League sought strong safeguards for the rights of Muslims.
What were the objectives of the Cabinet Mission?
The objectives of the Cabinet Mission were to reach an agreement on the creation of a constitution for India, establish a constitution-making body (the Constituent Assembly of India), and form an Executive Council with the support of major Indian political parties.
What proposals did the Cabinet Mission issue in May 1946?
The Cabinet Mission issued its own set of proposals in May 1946, as the Congress Party and the Muslim League were unable to find common ground.
Why was the demand for a full-fledged Pakistan rejected by the Cabinet Mission?
The demand for a full-fledged Pakistan was rejected because it would include a large non-Muslim population and the principle of communal self-determination would require the separation of Hindu-majority areas in Bengal and Sikh- and Hindu-dominated areas in Punjab.
How were the provinces divided under the proposals of the Cabinet Mission?
The provinces were divided into three groups: Group A (Madras, the Central Provinces, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Bombay, and Orissa), Group B (Punjab, Sindh, the NWFP, and Baluchistan), and Group C (Bengal and Assam).
What was the structure of the executive and legislature under the Cabinet Mission proposals?
There was a three-tiered executive and legislature at the provincial, section, and union levels.
How would the constituent assembly be elected under the proposals?
The provincial assemblies would elect a constituent assembly through proportional representation, with voting in three groups: General, Muslims, and Sikhs.
What were some of the concerns regarding the division of Bengal and Punjab?
The division of Bengal and Punjab would jeopardize deep-rooted regional ties, cause economic and administrative problems, and create challenges in communication between Pakistan’s western and eastern regions.
How many members would be in the constituent assembly according to the Cabinet Mission proposals?
The constituent assembly would consist of 389 members.
How would the members be selected for the constituent assembly?
Provincial assemblies would send 292 members, chief commissioner’s provinces would send 4 members, and princely states would send 93 members.
How would the constituent assembly function in terms of seating arrangements?
Members of groups A, B, and C would sit separately in the constituent assembly to decide the constitution for provinces and, if possible, groups as well.
What was the process for drafting the union constitution?
The entire constituent assembly, consisting of all three sections (A, B, and C) combined, would convene to draft the union constitution.
What would be the responsibilities of the centralized command in India?
The centralized command would be in charge of defense, communication, and external affairs.
How would communal questions be decided in the central legislature?
Communal questions would be decided by a simple majority of both communities present and voting in the central legislature.
What powers would provinces and princely states have under the proposals?
Provinces would have full autonomy and residual powers, and princely states would no longer be subject to the British government’s supremacy. They would be free to enter into an arrangement with successor governments or the British government.
What provisions were made regarding the freedom of provinces to leave a group or reconsider the union constitution?
After the first general elections, a province would be free to leave a group, and after 10 years, a province would be free to call for a reconsideration of the group or the union constitution. Meanwhile, the constituent assembly was to form an interim government.
When was the long-term plan of the Cabinet Mission accepted by the Muslim League and Congress?
The long-term plan of the Cabinet Mission was accepted by the Muslim League on June 6, 1946, and by Congress on June 24, 1946.
When were the elections for the Constituent Assembly held?
The elections for the Constituent Assembly were held in provincial assemblies in July 1946.
What did Nehru state regarding the Constituent Assembly?
Nehru stated on July 10, 1946, that “We are not bound by anything except that we have decided to go into the Constituent Assembly.” It implied that the Constituent Assembly was sovereign and would decide the rules of procedure.
Why was there a likelihood of no grouping in the Constituent Assembly?
The likelihood of no grouping in the Constituent Assembly was because the NWFP and Assam would object to joining sections B and C.
What did the Muslim League do in response to Nehru’s statement?
In response to Nehru’s statement, the Muslim League withdrew its acceptance of the long-term plan on July 29, 1946, and issued a call for “direct action” beginning on August 16 to achieve Pakistan.
What were some of the objections raised by Congress regarding the Cabinet Mission Plan?
Congress objected to the creation of Pakistan because grouping was optional, only one constituent assembly was envisaged, and the Muslim League no longer had a veto. They also argued that provinces should not have to wait until the first general election to break away from a coalition, and the absence of provision for elected members from the princely states was unacceptable.
What did the Muslim League expect Congress to do regarding the plan?
The Muslim League expected Congress to reject the plan, prompting the government to invite the League to form an interim government.
Why was the Congress opposed to the idea of provinces being divided into groups?
The Congress was opposed to the idea of provinces being divided into groups based on the Hindu-Muslim majority and competing for control at the center. It was also contrary to the concept of a weak center.
What was the stance of the Muslim League regarding the proposals?
The Muslim League did not want the proposals changed and rejected the idea of provinces being divided into groups.
What was the alternative plan proposed by the Cabinet Mission in June 1946?
The alternative plan proposed dividing India into two parts: a Hindu-majority India and a Muslim-majority India, later renamed Pakistan. It also included a list of princely states that could join the union or remain independent.
How did the Congress Party respond to the second plan proposed by the Cabinet Mission?
The Congress Party, under the leadership of Jawaharlal Nehru, rejected the second plan but agreed to be a constituent assembly member.
How was the interim government formed?
The Viceroy convened a meeting of 14 men to form an interim government. There were five members from the Congress, five from the Muslim League, and one each from the Sikh, Parsee, Indian Christian, and scheduled caste communities.
How were the members of the Viceroy’s interim council appointed?
The League and the Congress were both given the authority to appoint five members to the Viceroy’s interim council.
Who did the Congress nominate as one of the members of the interim council?
The Congress nominated Zakir Hussain as one of the members of the interim council.
Why did the Muslim League boycott the interim council?
The Muslim League objected to the Congress nominating Zakir Hussain and claimed that they only represented Indian Muslims. Therefore, the Muslim League boycotted the interim council.
Who became the leader of the interim government?
Jawaharlal Nehru became the leader of the interim government.
Which political parties formed governments in different provinces?
In most provinces, including the NWFP, Congress-led governments were formed, while the Muslim League formed governments in Bengal and Sind.
What event sparked widespread communal rioting across the country?
Jinnah’s call for a “Direct Action Day” on August 16, 1946, sparked widespread communal rioting across the country.
How did the riots and violence impact the partition discussions?
The riots and violence led to a call for the country to be partitioned. Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel and other Congress leaders recognized the inevitability of partition as a means to put an end to the brutal violence.
Who was Lord Mountbatten and what was his role in India?
Lord Mountbatten was the last Viceroy of India and his role was to ensure a smooth transfer of power from British rule to Indian independence.
What was the “Dickie Bird Plan” proposed by Mountbatten?
The “Dickie Bird Plan” proposed that the provinces be declared independent successor states and given the option to join or not join the constituent assembly.
Why did Jawaharlal Nehru oppose the “Dickie Bird Plan”?
Jawaharlal Nehru opposed the “Dickie Bird Plan” because he believed it would lead to the Balkanization of the country.
What was the June 3 Plan and why is it also known as the Mountbatten Plan?
The June 3 Plan, also known as the Mountbatten Plan, was the final strategy for Indian independence devised by Lord Mountbatten. It included the principles of partition, autonomy, sovereignty, and the right to write their own constitution.
What option were princely states given under the Mountbatten Plan?
Princely states, including Jammu and Kashmir, were given the option to join either India or Pakistan.
Did both Congress and the Muslim League agree to the Mountbatten Plan?
Yes, both Congress and the Muslim League agreed to the Mountbatten Plan.
When was the Indian Independence Act 1947 passed and what did it do?
The Indian Independence Act 1947 was passed in the British Parliament and received royal assent on July 18, 1947. It put the Mountbatten Plan into action and paved the way for India’s independence.
Under the Mountbatten Plan, how was British India divided?
British India was divided into two countries: India and Pakistan.
What was the provision regarding the application of the Constituent Assembly’s draft constitution in Muslim-majority areas?
The draft constitution of the Constituent Assembly would not apply to Muslim-majority areas (which would become Pakistan). These provinces would decide on the issue of a separate constituent assembly for Muslim-majority areas.
How was the partition of Bengal and Punjab decided?
The legislative assemblies of Bengal and Punjab met and voted for partition along religious lines, in accordance with the Mountbatten Plan.
What decision was made by the legislative assembly of Sind?
The legislative assembly of Sind decided to join Pakistan, and it had the authority to decide whether or not to join the Indian constituent assembly.
How was the decision regarding the NWFP’s (North-Western Frontier Province) dominion made?
The NWFP held a referendum to decide which dominion to join, although Khan Abdul Gaffar Khan boycotted and rejected the referendum. Ultimately, the NWFP decided to join Pakistan.
What were the other demands of the Congress that were met under the Mountbatten Plan?
The other demands of the Congress that were met included ruling out independence for princely states, ruling out independence for Bengal, ruling out the accession of Hyderabad to Pakistan, granting freedom on August 15, 1947, and establishing a boundary commission if partition was to be effected.
Who chaired the Boundary Commission established under the Mountbatten Plan?
Sir Cyril Radcliffe chaired the Boundary Commission.
What was the task of the Boundary Commission?
The Boundary Commission was tasked with dividing Bengal and Punjab into two new countries (India and Pakistan) and fixing the international boundaries between them.
What options were given to the princely states under the Mountbatten Plan?
The princely states were given the option of remaining independent or acceding to either India or Pakistan.
How did the Mountbatten Plan impact the British monarchy?
The British monarch would no longer address himself as “Emperor of India.”
What was the role of the Governor-General in the transition period?
Until the new constitutions were established, the Governor-General would assent to any law passed in His Majesty’s name by the constituent assemblies of the dominions.
What was the new status of the Governor-General under the Mountbatten Plan?
The Governor-General was elevated to the status of the constitutional head.
When were the dominions of Pakistan and India established?
The dominions of Pakistan and India were established at midnight on the 14th and 15th of August, 1947, respectively.
Who was appointed as the first Governor-General of independent India?
Lord Mountbatten was appointed as the first Governor-General of independent India.
Who was appointed as the first Governor-General of Pakistan?
M.A. Jinnah was appointed as the first Governor-General of Pakistan.
What was the response to the Mountbatten Plan?
Acceptance of partition was seen as the culmination of incremental concessions to the League’s demand for a separate Muslim state.
What was Lord Mountbatten’s intention with his plan?
Lord Mountbatten’s plan aimed to divide India while maintaining maximum unity. The peaceful transfer of power was attempted, but the horror of partition remains.
What significant event related to partition did India recently commemorate?
India recently declared August 14 as Partition Horror Remembrance Day, recognizing the tragic consequences of the partition.
Who drafted the Indian Independence Act of 1947?
The Indian Independence Act of 1947 was drafted by the Labour Government of Clement Attlee.
What was the basis for the Indian Independence Act?
The Act was based on the Mountbatten Plan or the 3rd June Plan, which was formulated after the agreement of Indian National Congress and Muslim League leaders with Viceroy Lord Mountbatten’s suggestions.
When did the Prime Minister of the UK announce the granting of self-government to British India?
The Prime Minister announced on 20 February 1947 that self-government would be granted to British India by June 1948.
What was another name for the 3rd June Plan?
The 3rd June Plan was also known as the Mountbatten Plan.
When did the Indian Independence Act 1947 come into effect?
The Indian Independence Act 1947 granted independence to India and Pakistan with effect from 15th August 1947.
What was the role of the Boundary Commission mentioned in the Act?
The Boundary Commission was tasked with demarcating the new boundaries of the dominions.
What happened to the princely states under the Indian Independence Act?
British suzerainty over the princely states came to an end, and they had the option to join either India or Pakistan or remain independent. Over 560 states chose to merge with India.
Who served as the heads of state until the new dominions’ constitutions became effective?
The respective Governor-Generals served as the heads of state and continued to assent laws passed by the Constituent Assemblies in the name of the king.
When did the Indian Independence Act receive royal assent and come into force?
The Act received royal assent on 18th July 1947 and entered into force.
When did the British authorities leave India?
The British authorities left India on the fifteenth of August 1947.
How was India divided under the Indian Independence Act (1947)?
India was divided into two sovereign provinces of India and Pakistan.
When did each of the states become sovereign?
Each of the states became sovereign on the fifteenth of August 1947.
What happened to the powers previously exercised by the British authorities?
The powers formerly exercised by the British authorities in India were transferred to each of the newly sovereign states.
How was the division of Punjab and Bengal handled?
The division of Punjab and Bengal was carried out by a boundary commission headed by Mr. Redcliff.
What happened to the Office of the Secretary of State for India?
The Office of the Secretary of State for India was abolished.
How were the Governor-Generals appointed?
The Governor-Generals were appointed by the Queen of England on the recommendation of the Dominion government. They acted as the constitutional heads of their respective states.
What was the role of the legislative bodies in each Dominion?
Each Dominion had its own Constituent Assembly, which also functioned as a legislative body.
What was the temporary framework for legislation in the dominions?
Until a Constitution was formulated by a Constituent Assembly in any dominion, the dominion would closely follow the provisions of the 1935 Act.
Who acted as the constitutional heads of the provinces?
The provincial governors acted as the constitutional heads of the provinces.
What change was made regarding the post of Secretary of State?
The reservation of the post of Secretary of State was discontinued.
What was the status of government personnel after the transfer of power?
Government personnel who wished to resign after the transfer of power to both dominions were allowed to do so.
When did British domination of the states and tribal territories of India end?
British domination of the states and tribal territories of India ended on August 15, 1947.
What was the role of the British government in managing its relationship with India after independence?
The relationship of the British government with India was to be managed through the Office of Commonwealth Affairs.
What title did the King of England renounce?
The King of England renounced the title of King and Emperor of India.
Which territories were included in Pakistan?
Pakistani territories included East Bengal, West Pakistan, Sindh, and British Baluchistan.
What would happen if the NWFP decided to join Pakistan?
If the NWFP decided to join Pakistan in a referendum, this territory would also join Pakistan.
What was the significance of the Indian Independence Act of 1947?
The Act had a significant impact on constitutional development in India.
How did Clement Attlee describe the Act?
Attlee referred to the Act as the fulfillment of the British mission in India and the culmination of a long process of events.
How did Lord Samuel describe the Act?
Lord Samuel described the Act as a peace treaty without war.
How did Indian leaders react to the enactment of the Act?
Indian leaders, such as Dr. Rajendra Prasad, hailed the enactment of the Act and emphasized maintaining a relationship with the British based on equality, goodwill, and mutual understanding.
Were all people and leaders satisfied with the Act?
No, a large number of people and leaders were not satisfied with the Act. Maulana Abul Kalam Azad referred to August 14 as a day of mourning for Hindus and Sikhs in Pakistan.
What potential threat did the end of British rule over Indian states pose?
Granting Indian states access to the Dominion or the option of maintaining independence posed a serious threat to the unity of the nation.
What was the significance of the Indian Independence Act of 1947?
The Act marked the end of British rule in India and the beginning of a free India.
What power did the Act give to the provinces?
The Act empowered the provinces to repeal any act of parliament applicable to them, including the Indian Independence Act.
How was the Indian Independence Act of 1947 repealed?
India and Pakistan repealed the Act by adopting their own constitutions, with Section 395 of the Indian Constitution and Section 221 of the Pakistan Constitution of 1956 effectively repealing the Act.
What happened with the adoption of the Constitution of India?
With the adoption of the Constitution of India, the status of dominion was abolished, and India became a republic.
Has the British Parliament contributed to the repeal of the Indian Independence Act 1947?
Interestingly, the British Parliament has not yet contributed to the repeal of the Act.
Why is the new constitution empowered to repeal laws?
Why is the new constitution empowered to repeal laws?
