Towards Indian Independence-Part 1
British Rule to the Republic of India in six brief articles.
When World War II ended, India was peaceful. The Stringent Defense of India Act suppressed any dissent and actions. Three and a half million Indians, displaying remarkable resilience, were in the British Indian Army fighting on behalf of Allies from Southeast Asia, the Middle East, Africa, and Europe. There had been rampant inflation, and England owed India Approximately £1.2 Billion (around $5.8 Billion) towards supplies made from 1939 onwards for the war.
Amidst this backdrop, the Viceroy, in a moment of significant political importance, called a meeting of political leaders to reconstitute the advisory committee. This move, in line with the political system, allowed leaders of various parties to voice their views. The declaration of assembly elections, a strategy that had proven beneficial to the British in the past, further added to the political dynamics. Elections were announced for December 1945.
However, the narrative was about to take a dramatic turn with an unforeseen event, a 'black swan' that would alter the course of India's fate.
About twenty thousand survivors of the British Indian Army were brought back to India from the Burma front who had joined the Indian National Army and fought alongside the Japanese to liberate India from the British. Some of them were put on trial for treason in a very public trial at Red Fort in Delhi. The thought was to try a few first to establish war crimes and treason.
The entire country exploded when the trial started, and the details started coming out. Although all were held guilty, the Army Chief, General Auchinlek, reading the country's mood, released them, confiscated outstanding salaries and benefits, and discharged them from the army without imprisonment.
But the spark had been ignited, and in January 1946, the Royal Indian Navy revolted. This uprising, involving the major naval bases at Bombay and Karachi, over 20,000 ratings, and 78 ships, marked a crucial moment in India's struggle for independence.
Rumblings were heard from the Armed forces, and the strikes and agitations spread nationwide. When the Cripps delegation came in April ’46, it determined that British Rule in India was impossible to hold with civil service loyalty suspect, Army loyalty suspect, and a notice of strike by Police force and postal employees.
It was announced that the British would soon depart from India, and the process of forming a government comprising all political parties and making decisions on various matters commenced. The British's demand for Indians to complete a constitution before considering Indian Independence was also abandoned, marking a significant shift in the narrative.
Next Article : what were the issues and challenges for the British and Indians.