The Mountbatten Plan, announced on 3rd June 1947 by the last British Viceroy Lord Louis Mountbatten, laid out the framework for India’s independence and partition. It marked the final step in the transfer of power from British rule to Indian hands.
Background
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Post-Second World War, Britain was economically weakened and politically pressured to leave India.
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The failure of the Cabinet Mission Plan (1946) and events like Direct Action Day and Noakhali Massacre highlighted communal divisions.
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The Indian National Congress demanded complete independence, while the Muslim League insisted on Pakistan.
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Lord Mountbatten was appointed in March 1947 to negotiate a settlement acceptable to all parties.
Key Provisions of the Mountbatten Plan
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Partition of India: India would be divided into two dominions: India and Pakistan (comprising West Pakistan and East Pakistan).
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Boundary Demarcation: A Boundary Commission, headed by Sir Cyril Radcliffe, would define the borders of Punjab and Bengal.
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Choice for Princely States: Princely states were given the choice to join India or Pakistan based on geography and religion.
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Transfer of Power: Independence was to be granted on 15th August 1947.
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Minority Safeguards: Both dominions were to protect religious and cultural rights of minorities.
Reactions
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Congress: Accepted the plan reluctantly, as it meant partition but ensured independence.
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Muslim League: Welcomed the plan as it realized Pakistan.
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Princely States: Mixed reactions; some acceded quickly, others hesitated, e.g., Hyderabad and Junagadh.
Impact
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Independence: India and Pakistan became independent dominions on 15th August 1947.
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Partition Violence: Triggered massive communal riots, killings, and migrations, especially in Punjab and Bengal.
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Mass Migration: Approximately 10–15 million people were displaced; over a million died in the violence.
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End of British Rule: Marked the end of nearly 200 years of British colonial rule in India.
Key Takeaway
The Mountbatten Plan (1947) provided a practical solution to end British rule but came at the cost of partition and widespread communal violence. It laid the foundation for independent India and Pakistan and shaped the subcontinent’s political future.