1

Battle of Plassey
This Battle of Plassey had transformed British East India Company into a political power from a trading
company.
Background
Aurangzeb (1658 – 1707) sent Murshid Quli Khan to Bengal as Deevan in 1700. Murshid Quli Khan
transferred the capital of Bengal from Dhaka to Murshidabad.
Mughal King Farrukshiyar (1713-1719) completely waived off the custom duties from EIC & Murshid
Quli Khan was made the first Nawab of Bengal in 1717.
After the death of Farrukshiyar, Bengal became an independent state.
Throne of Bengal
Murshid quli khan made his son in law, Shuja ud din muhammed new nawab of Bengal. He was succeeded
by his son Sarfaraj khan(1727 – 1739).
Alivardikhan was a loyal sepoy of Shuja ud din muhammed. By considering the ability of Alivardi khan,
he was made General in 1728 then became Deputy Subedar of Bihar.
Now he no longer wanted to live as a Deputy Subedar, he killed Sarfaraj khan in the battle of Giria in 1740
and became the Nawab of Bengal.
After the death of Alivardi khan his grand son Siraj ud din Daulah becasme the Nawab of Bengal.
Cause of the Battle
In 1756 Seven year war was started in Europe. Britain and France were against each other in this war.
British had fear the French can attack on their factory hence they started fortification.
EIC was making a lot of money but was not paying any tax.
Farrukshiyar era was over, now Bengal was under Siraj ud din daulah. He invite representative of French
EIC and British EIC to his court and told them that you will have to pay tax now also the fortification you
are building have to be stopped.
Black Hole Incident
French agreed but British doesn’t hence Siraj ud din Daulah attacked on Fort William.
Some managed to escape but 146 were captured, among them children’s & ladies was there. They are
packed in small guard room, on next morning when gate opens only 23 survived, remaining were died due
to suffocation. This is know as “Black Hole Incident”.
After Black Hole Incident
Escapes EIC employees sent the message to the Colonel Robert Clive (Madras).
Robert Clive came to Bengal along with 3000 Soldiers.Another Governor attacked on Bengal port. Nawab
was not able to defeat them, hence “Treaty of Alinagar” was signed between them.
Condition of Treaty
 Fort William again became a British property.
 EIC does not have to pay any tax.
 Britisher’s were allowed to mint coins.
 Britisher’s were allowed to keep army in Bengal.
Robert Clive had now decided that he would not allow Siraj ud din Daula to remain the Nawab for long.
Robert Clive lured Mir Jafar(commander in chief of Nawab army) to made him the Nawab of Bengal and
meet hands with him.
Course of the Battle of Plassey
Britishers attacked French factory Chandranagar, Bengal. Siraj ud din daula thought British E.I.C. are
crossing their limit, hence he decided to attack on them with his Force 50k strong force.
Force of Nawab met with Robert clive’s 3000 soldiers on the banks of the Bhagirathi-Hooghly River, near
the small village of Plassey (Palashi) ,Kolkata.
This battle was fought on 23 June 1757 and know as “Battle af plassey”.
With the help of Mis Jafar, Robert clive Killed Siraj ud din Daula.
Impact of Battle of Plassey
In 1757 Mir Jafar was made the nawab of Bengal but he was not more than a puppet in hands of Robert
clive.
After the Battle of Plassey ,East India Company transformed into a political power.
 2

Battle of Buxar
The Battle of Buxar was an important battle in Indian history that was fought between the British East
India Company and the combined army of Nawab of Bengal, Awadh and Mughal King . British EIC won
this battle and got Complete control over Bengal.
Background
Robert Clive defeated Siraj-ud-Daulah in the Battle of Plassey and made Mir Jafar the Nawab of Bengal.,
but he had to accept all the demands of the British East India Company. The East India Company used him
as a puppet and he had to forcibly fulfill all the demands of the EIC.
As the days were passing , the demand for the East India Company was kept on increasing. Hence, Mir
Jafar joined hands with the Dutch Company to get rid of the East India Company. He called the Dutch EIC
and told them do whatever you want to drive the British EIC out of Bengal.
The Dutch EIC also felt that there could never be a better opportunity than this to become a leading
company in Bengal, so they accepted the proposal of Mir Jafar. When the East India Company saw that the
Dutch East India Company was coming with their soldiers to fight with them, they sent their soldiers to
Chinsur.
Chinsura is a place near to Kolkata and here the “Battle of Chinsurah” took place between the British
EIC and the Dutch EIC. The British EIC was victorious in this war.
When the East India Company came to know about the evil mind of Mir Jafar they took strong action
against him and made Mir Qasim the Nawab of Bengal in place of Mir Jafar.

Cause of Battle of Buxar

Mir Qasim was the son-in-law of Mir Jafar and Robert Clive made him the Nawab. Robert Clive was a
clever man. Therefore, before making Mir Qasim the Nawab, he placed a condition that he would have to
fulfill all the demands of the company.
In the greed of becoming the Nawab, Mir Qasim agreed. In the beginning, he kept accepting all the
demands of the East India Company, but soon he realized if he kept fulfilling all their demands like this.
So one day the treasury of Bengal will be completely empty.
In 1760 Robert clive went back to England. Mir Quasim got tired of British interference and endless
demand. To maintain some distance from British he shifted his capital from Murshidabad to Munger Fort.
He also hired foregin expert to train his army and stared manufacturing guns . Now his confidence was
high to fight against the British EIC.
Mughal king Farrukshiyar completly waived off custom duties from EIC while the local merchant had to
pay upto 40% tax. Due to this the business of British Merchant was flourishing. Mir Quasim tough if i
dosen’t collect tax from local traders of Bengal the British merchant have to suffer in their trade and they
will leave Bengal.
This decision of Mir Qasim made the EIC furious as the demand for their goods was decreasing but it was
because of the EIC that Mir Qasim became the Nawab and this policy was against the EIC, this lead to 3
small fight between them. After defeated by EIC, Mir Qasim approached the Nawab of Awadh.
The Battle of Buxar
At that time the Nawab of Awadh was Shuja-ud-daula and he sought help from Shuja-ud-daula. The
Nawab of Awadh agreed to help Mir Qasim.
He formed an confederacy with Awadh ruler Suja ud Daulah and Mughal emperor Shah Alam 2 . All the
three ruler came to Buxar with a combined army of 40,000 soldiers while British army has only 10,000
soldiers leaded by Hector Munro.
This Battle was fought at Buxar , place at border of UP and Bihar on the bank of Ganga on 22 Oct 1764
and know as “Battle of Buxar”. Mir Qasim fled in the middle of the war While Mughal Emperor and
Nawab of Awadh surrendered.
Rovert Clive came back to India in 1765 and conculded two seprate “Treaty of Allahabad” with Shah
Alam 2 and Suja ud Daula.
Treaty of Allahabad
 Awadh except the district of kora and Allabhad as restored to Nawab.
 Nawab have to pay 50 lakh Rs. to the company as the war indemnity.
 3

 The Nawab had to maintain a British contingent at his own expense also have to pay tax for it , In
return they will protect territories of him.
 The company gave the district of Kora and Allahabad to Mughal king and recieved the Diwani Right of
Bengal, Bihar, Odisha.
As Mir Quasim ran away in between the battle, British EIC has taken up the control of Bengal.

Arrival of East India Company in India

Background
In this article we will be covering the arrival of British East India Company. But, British were not the first
to come to India. It was Portuguese who first discovered a direct sea route to India. Portuguese sailor
Vasco da Gama arrived at Calicut port on May 20, 1498 AD.
After staying in India for a period of three months Vasco da Gama returned with a rich cargo which he
sold in the European market at an exorbitant price- 60 times the cost of his voyage.
Formation of East India Company
Being motivated by the successful business stories of the Portuguese, a group of English merchants
–‘Merchant Adventurers’ formed a company “The Governor and Company of Merchants of London
Trading into the East Indies”, popularly know as the British East India Company was formed on 31st
December 1600.
For trading they required the permission of Britain Queen Elizabeth.
The Company received a royal charter from Queen Elizabeth, authorizing the monopoly to trade in any
country in the East of Cape of Good Hope & West of Strait of Magellan for 15 years.
Arrival of East India Company in India
Finally in 1608 British EIC reached Indian at the port of Surat.
In 1608 AD, the East India Company sent Captain William Hawkins to the court of the Mughal emperor
Jahangir to seek permission to open a factory at Surat.
A Farman was issued by Jahangir permitting the English to build a factory at Surat.
In 1615 AD, Sir Thomas Roe was sent by Emperor James I of England to Jahangir’s court, to obtain the
permission to trade and erect factory in different parts of the Mughal empire.
Roe was very diplomatic and thus successfully secured a royal charter giving the Company freedom to
trade in the whole of the Mughal territory.
British EIC started establishing factory at part’s of Empire,
In 1619 – at Surat
In 1668 – at Bombay
In 1690 – at Calcutta.
Britishers Import Coffee and Persian Horse and export Cotton, Silk, Salt petre (use to prepare gun
powder). By 1647 British EIC had established total 23 factories. These factory are used as Godam, where
all products was stored also people live there along with security guards. Among all the factory 3 were
established at major scale. They are not less then any fort.
1. Fort William – at Bengal
2. Fort St. George – at Madras
3. Bombay Castle – at Bombay.
Establishment and Growth of East India Company’s power in India
In 1717 Mughal king Farrukshiyar completely waived off custom duties from East India company.
Till time East India company is a trading company, after this two important battle was happens. “Battle of
Buxar” and “Battle of Plassey” which made East India company a political power.
 4

First Round Table Conference

British government called for the First round table conference in the year 1930 to discuss the constitutional
advancement of India.
Background
On May 1930, Simon Commission published its report. Britain government wanted to discuss the
recommendation of this report in detail. So that, decision can be made on the future constitutional
advancement of India.
Muhammed Ali Jinnah met Viceroy Lord Irwin to suggest that in these discussions, Indian representatives
should also be invited. British government accepted his request.
So, for these discussions, British government held 3 round table conferences at London during 1930 –
1932.
Inauguration
First Round table conference was officially inaugurated by British King George V and the chairman of
conference was British Prime Minister Ramsay McDonald.
1st Round Table conference Duration - Nov 1930 to Jan 1931
Participants of First Round table Conference
In this conference, along with British politicians, representatives from Indian princely states and political
parties were also invited.
16 Delegates from different political parties of Britain
16 Delegates from different Indian princely states
58 Delegates from different Indian political parties
Some of the Indian political parties which represented in the first round table conference were Muslim
League, Hindu Mahasabha, Indian Liberal Party etc.
From Muslim League – MA Jinnah, Aga Khan and Muhammed Ali participated. Tez Bahadur Sapru from
Indian Liberal Party also participated in this conference.
BR Ambedkar represented untouchables & Sardar Ujjal Singh represented Sikh community.
Congress did not attend the 1st round table conference.
Why Congress did not attend First Round table Conference
Congress’s demand of implementing Nehru Report was not entertained by British Government. In its
response, Congress had launched civil disobedience movement.
During Civil Disobedience Movement, Congress was boycotting every British laws and institutions. So, it
was not possible for congress leaders to attend the first round table and have any kind of discussion.
Key highlights of First Round table Conference
1. All political parties agreed that the ultimate goal of constitutional development is Dominion
Status.
Also, it was discussed that Finance and Defence department of the dominion will still be under British
control.
2. Tez Bahadur Sapru of Indian Liberal Party gave an idea of All India Federation. This was also
accepted by all.
Idea of all India Federation was that all princely states and provinces within the Indian Union will act
as a self-governing body by themselves. And, all these self governing bodies will form a Union called
All India Federation. There shall be a central government at this level.
3. Dr. BR Ambedkar demanded separate electorate for the depressed class. However, Decision
could not be made on this topic.
Did First Round table Conference Succeed in its Objectives
Even though the conference was going smooth, a lot of decisions were made. But, the main concern of
British Government was that Congress did not joined it. And, by looking at the success of civil
disobedience movement it was clear that Congress was leading the majority of Indian population.
So, any decision made in the first round table could not be considered final until Congress accepts them.
So, anything and everything discussed was not of much use.
So, First Round Table was considered as a Failure.
 5

Gandhi Irwin Pact 1931

Background
In order to understand why Gandhi Irwin Pact was signed in 1931, we need to look at the two major events
which happened one after another in the mid of year 1930.
 Gandhiji broke the salt law on the morning of 6 April 1930 at Dandi, a coastal village in Gujarat. This
lead to the launch of civil disobedience movement.
 Simon Commission published its report in May 1930.
And, when British Government held its first round table conference at London in Nov 1930 to discuss the
Simon Commission report with prominent Indian Leaders, parties and nominated members of British
Parliament. Congress decided not to participate in this conference.
Why Congress did not participated in first round table conference ?
Because, during that time Indian National Congress was leading the Civil Disobedience Movement
against British government. And, part of this movement, they were boycotting all the government
organisations, institutions and laws. So, INC decided to boycott the 1st round table conference as well.
Now, since the first round table conference failed mainly because INC did not attended it.
How can a conference fail just because 1 single party did not attended it?
After non-cooperation movement and Civil Disobedience movement, INC has emerged as the sole
reprsentative of Indian Masses. Thousands and thousands of people were ready to get arrested o just 1
call of INC leaders like Gandhi, Nehru etc.
So, Any discussion related to constitutional reforms of India can not be successful without the accent of
Indian National Congress.
So, after the failure of first round table conference, it became almost necessary for British government to
approach and negotiate the demands with Indian Nation Congress.
It was Tej Bahadur Sapru who mediated Gandhi Irwin Pact 1931.
Next Steps & The Signing of Pact
Lord Irwin, the then viceroy, initiated the talks with Gandhiji. Gandhiji was also impressed with the
sincerety of Lord Irwin.
Talks between Gandhiji and Lord Irwin went for almost a fortnight, which includes 8 meetings altogether.
Outcome of these meetings was – Gandhi Irwin Pact. This Pact was signed on 5th March 1931.
Gandhi-Irwin Pact was signed on 5th March 1931
Terms & Conditions of the Gandhi-Irwin Pact
1. All political prisoners, who do not have any charge of violence against them, were to be released
immediately.
2. All the ordinances passed by British government against INC to stop civil disobedience
movement were to be taken back.
3. British Government agreed to return the land confiscated because of not paying land tax.
4. Pact also laid down the condition that the British Government will take back the government
officers, who left their jobs as part of civil disobedience movement.
5. Apart from this, now, coastal villages were allowed to make salt for their consumption.
6. And, most importantly, Peaceful Picketing of Shops selling liquor and foreign goods was now
made legal
During this meeting, Gandhiji requested for commutation of Bhagat Singh, Rajguru and Sukhdev’s
execution. But, the request was rejected by Lord Irwin.
Significance of Gandhi-Irwin Pact
Gandhi Irwin Pact was of much significance as it was for the first time when British Government and
Indians were negotiating as equal.
 6

Second Round Table Conference

British government conducted Second round table conference in Sept 1931 after the failure of First round
table conference to discuss further constitutional advancement of India.
Background
After the failure of first Round table conference, British government realised that they need to involve INC
for any kind of discussion related to constitution reforms, to succeed.
So, After British Government signed an agreement with Gandhiji. This agreement is called Gandhi-Irwin
Pact. Based on this agreement, INC stopped Civil Disobedience Movement and was ready to send their
representative to Second Round Table Conference.
So, for these discussions, British government held 3 round table conferences at London during 1930 –
1932.
Change of Government in Britain
There was a change in British Government Just 2 weeks before the second round table conference. Labor
Party was now replaced by a coalition government called National Government.
However, the Prime Minister remained the same i.e. Ramsay McDonald. So, Ramsay McDonald
chaired the Second round table conference as well.
Who all Participated in Second Round table Conference
Number of participants in second round table conference were much more than the number of
representatives participated in First round table conference. All of the participants were nominated by
British Government only.
There were Delegates from different political parties of Britain
23 Delegates from different Indian princely states
80+ Delegates from different Indian political parties
Sarojini Naidu was representing Indian Women
There were 17 leaders from Muslim League itself which included MA Jinnah, Aga Khan and Muhammed
Iqbal as well.
There were 3 leaders from Hindu Mahasabha & 5 from Indian Liberal Party. Tez Bahadur Sapru was one
of these 5 leaders of Indian Liberal Party who participated in this conference.
Once again, BR Ambedkar was representing untouchables & Sardar Ujjal Singh was representing Sikh
community along with one more Sikh leader.
4 leaders from Justice Party & around 6-7 leaders from Indian-Cristians, Parsis, and Anglo-Indians were
also present at this Conference.
GD Birla was also present here to represent Industrialist along with 3 others.
From Congress, Only Gandhiji was there.
Ambedkar and Gandhiji came face to face
On the topic of separate electorate for untouchables, Ambedkar and Gandhiji came face to face with each
other. Ambedkar was demanding separate electorate for the depressed class but Gandhiji was not ready to
accept it as Gandhiji could not think of untouchables separate from Hindu society as a whole.
And, Gandhiji believed that separate electorate can not be a solution to the problems of untouchables. It
can only worsen the issue.
Key highlights of Second Round table Conference
The main topic raised during second round table was separate electorate. Muslims, Depressed Class,
Christians, Anglo-Indians and depressed class i.e. everybody was demanding separate electorate for
themselves.
Even-though everybody was demanding separate electorate but no body had any idea how the division of
seats will happen.
Did Second Round table Conference Succeed in its Objectives
Not at all, it just got stuck with the issue of separate electorate. Ultimately nothing positive came out of it
and resulted in failure of second round table conference.
So, Second Round Table was also considered as a Failure.
 7

Provincial Elections of 1937

British government conducted provincial elections in the year 1937. In these elecions Congress emerged as
the representative of Majority of Indian population.
Background
Three Round table conferences happened between 1930 to 1932. Based on the discussions happened in
these conferences, a white paper was published in the March 1933.
Later, debates and discussions happened in British parliament over this Whitepaper. And, after the end of
this complete process British government passed Government of India Act 1935.
Most Striking feature of GOI Act 1935 was that it introduced provincial autonomy in all the provinces in
British India.
Provincial Autonomy was introduced by Government of India Act 1935.
Detail of Provinces in British India
At that time i.e. Year 1935, there were total 11 provinces in British India. They were – Madras, Central
Province, Bihar, Orrisa, United Provinces, Bombay Presidency, Assam, NWFP, Bengal, Punjab and Sindh.
The Election
In the above mentioned 11 provinces, there were total 1585 seats on which elections were conducted. Out
of 1585, a total of 482 seats were reserved for Muslim candidates. Of these 482 muslim seats – on 58 seats
congress’s muslim candidates were also contesting elections.
Before, 1937 elections – voting rights were available with a very very limited section of Indian population.
Now, as part of the preparation of 1937 elections, British government had provided voting rights to almost
30 Million people. Which is equivalent to 14% of the total population. However, women were still not
allowed to vote.
Result : Provincial Elections of 1937
Result of these elections was declared in Feb 1937. INC fared well and it proved to be the largest
representative of the Indian population.
Result was as follows

Total Seats Congress Muslim League

1585 707 106

Although, Muslim League stood 2nd but it was still very embarrassing for Muslim League because it could
gain only 20% of 482 Muslim reserved seats. In this respect, Congress fared better as out of 58 Muslim
reserved seats on which Congress candidates were contesting – they won 26 Seats. So, Congress’s strike
rate was close to 50%.
From these statistics, it became clear that Muslim League does not represent entire Muslim Population,
which it used to claim.
Formation of Ministries after Provincial Elections of 1937
Congress had absolute majority ( i.e. they won more than 50% seats ) in Central Province, Bihar, Orrisa,
Madras and United Province. So, in these 5 Provinces – Congress form the ministries.
Apart from these, there were 3 other provinces – NWFP, Assam and Bombay. Here Congress emerged as
the largest party in the election of 1937 but failed to get absolution majority by very less number of seats.
So, Congress tied up with local parties to form coalition government in these 3 provinces.
Muslim League too formed coalition government in 2 provinces.
 Punjab – In coalition with Unionist Party of Sikandar Hayat Khan.
 Bengal – In coalition with Krishak Praja Party of Fazlul Haq.
At Sindh, Muslim political party made the government.
So, for these discussions, British government held 3 round table conferences at London during 1930 –
1932.
 8

BR Ambedkar's Indépendant Labour Party contested won 14 seats

out of 17 seats, it contested.

Performance of Congress Ministries

So, as discussed earlier, Congress had formed ministries in 8 out 11 provinces. People had very high hopes
with Congress. Congress too worked hard tand brought land reforms, industry reforms and social reforms.
At Orrisa, United province, Bengal and other places where congress had formed their ministries, they had
brought Tenancy bills so that the life of peasants who used to work on others land, can be improved.
By 1939, congress had already spent 28 Months in power. But, depressed classes, peasants and industry
workers were still not satisfied with their work. Muslim League was also taking an opportunity to criticise
Congress’s work and tried to spread the dissatisfaction among the masses.
In-fact, Muslim formed a committee – Pirpur Committee to prepare a report to highlight that Congress is
working in favour of Hindus and is trying to suppress Muslim population.
Congress Ministries – Resigned
On 3rd Sep 1939, Viceroy Lord Linlithgow declared that India is going to support Britain in their war
efforts in World War II. Viceroy did this declaration without consulting Indian political parties. Congress
had a strong objection to this declaration and In response, On 22nd Oct 1939 – resigned from all the 8
provinces where they formed the ministries.

August Offer 1940

In Order to understand why August Offer was proposed in 1940, we need to see the sequence of events.
Background
On 3rd September 1939, Lord Linlithgow declared that India is going to support Britain in World War II.
In its response, Congress Ministries resigned on 22nd Oct 1939 as they were outraged by the fact that
British government did not take any consent from Indians before making such declaration on behalf of
Indian people.
Congress Ministries were Outraged because Lord Linlithgow did
not consult Indian Representative before Declaring that India
was also at war against Fascists.
In such a circumstance, Congress met at their annual session to decide their future strategy at Ramgarh,
Bihar in March 1940. Here, a decision was made to pass a resolution that Congress can support British
Government in their war efforts if British Government promise to setup a provisional national government
at centre.
British Government was also eager to secure the support from Congress. Actually, Muslim League and
several princely states were already supporting Britain in their war effort. But, British knew that large
number of people can join the army only if Congress supports Britain in the war effort and appeal to
public.
So, British government came up with a proposal called August Offer.
Terms and Conditions of the August Offer
1. Indian Constituent Assembly was to be set up in order to frame Indian Constitution.
Indian National Congress had been demanding of Indian Constituent Assembly since 1935. So, it being
a long pending demand. British government finally conceded to setup Indian Constituent Assembly
after the conclusion of World War II.

For the First time, right of Indians to frame their own Constitution was recognised, Indian constituent
assembly was supposed to have only Indian members.

It was also for the first time that British government had explicitly offered Dominion Status
2. Viceroy Executive Council was expanded, now for the first time Indian leaders outnumbered
British members in the council.
3. Indian representatives were also included in the War Advisory Council.
4. Minorities were given VETO power which means that now, after August Offer, no constitutional
provision can be adopted without the consent of Minorities.
 9

5. All promises will be fulfilled after the War and that too only if all the communities and political
parties would help the British in their war efforts.

India’s Response to August Offer 1940

Muslim League appreciated the August Offer 1940 considering the fact that it proposes VETO power to
the minorities which ensures that no constitutional provisions can be accepted unless it is acceptable to the
minorities.
However, Muslim League too had concerns related to composition of viceroy’s executive council.
Now, let’s talk about Indian National Congress’s response to August Offer. Congress did not liked the
offer for the simple reason that it was offering Dominion Status, whereas, Congress in its Lahore Session
1929 had passed a Purna Swaraj resolution, which states that Congress had changed its goal from
Dominion Status to Purna Swaraj.
Since, Congress was not ready to accept anything less than Purna Swaraj, August Offer was declined. In-
fact, Congress president Abul Kalam Azad refused to discuss the August offer with Lord Linlithgow.
Significance of Cripps Mission
Cripps Mission Failed as Muslim League and INC both had rejected its proposals.
But, the significance of Cripps Mission is that it is for the first that British Government had agreed to give
entire responsibility to Indians only to draft Indian Constitution. In other words, Constituent Assembly was
to have Indians only .

Cripps Mission 1942

British Government sent Cripps mission to India in order to secure whole hearted support of India and
Indian political parties in British war efforts in World War II.
Background
Britain was in very bad condition in the initial phase of World War II. One after another, Japan was
attacking all the British colonies in south-east Asia.
 On 8 Dec 1941, Japanese army attacked Malaya Peninsula and forced the British troops out.
 Later, Japan invaded Singapore, Philippines and Hong Kong as well.
Apart from this, Japan had attacked America’s Pearl Harbour. America was Britain ally in World War II.
So, the attack on pearl harbour had shook Britain equally.
Britain could not save its south-eastern colonies from Japanese invasion because of the fact that natives of
theses countries did not support British War-efforts. Infact, situation in India was quite similar – Congress
had launched Individual Satyagraha under the leadership of Gandhiji.
British government did not want Japan to invade India rom them, so they were looking to gain support
from Indians in the war effort. American Prime Minister – Franklin Roosevelt was also pushing British
government to negotiate with Indian political leaders.
Arrival of Cripps Mission
So, in order to gain Indian’s support in World War II, In March 1942, British government sent Lord Privy
Seal – Sir Stafford Cripps along with a proposal. This event is called Cripps Mission 1942.
Now, lets look at the proposal in detail.
1. After the War is over, British Government was ready to provide dominion status to India with
complete internal and external autonomy.
2. British Government will set up an all Indian constituent assembly, after the war, to frame the
Indian Constitution.
Constituent assembly will have members from both provincial assembly and princely state.
Members from Provincial Assembly were to be elected. Whereas, the members from princely states
were supposed to be nominated by prince.
3. If any province or princely state is unwilling to join the Indian Union were allowed to remain
separate and to form their own separate constitution. British Government ensured to invite them
to join the commonwealth.
 10

INC’s Response to Cripps Mission

Congress, in particular, was not happy with the proposals of Cripps Mission. Congress rejected it for
following reasons.
 Every proposal in Cripps Mission was supposed to be addressed and implemented after World War II
ends.
 Cripps Mission was proposing Dominion Status, which was not acceptable to Congress. In 1929
Lahore session of Congress, Congress had changed its goal from Dominion Status to complete
independence.
 Apart from this, Congress had objection to the point where it was said that constituent assembly
members from princely states were supposed to be nominated by prince. Congress wanted them to be
elected the same way just like the members from provincial assembly.
Gandhiji called Cripps Mission "A post dated Cheque"
Muslim League’s Response
Muslim Leagues criticised the proposals of the Cripps Mission. Muslim League’s demand of creating
separate country for Muslims was not mentioned in it.
As per the proposal of the mission, any existing province or princely state who is unwilling to join the
Indian Union were allowed to create separate state. But, this does not allow Muslim League to create
Pakistan.
Significance of Cripps Mission
Cripps Mission Failed as Muslim League and INC both had rejected its proposals.
But, the significance of Cripps Mission is that it is for the first that British Government had agreed to give
entire responsibility to Indians only to draft Indian Constitution. In other words, Constituent Assembly was
to have Indians only .

Quit India Movement 1942

Quit India Movement is also called August Kranti and Bharat Chhodo Movement. This movement was
started by Indian National Congress in the leadership of Gandhiji.
Background
Cripps Mission had already failed and Sir Stafford Cripps had left to Britain in April 1942. By now, it was
clear that British Government was not ready to provide any real constitutional reforms during World War
II.
Now, the situation in front of Indians was that.
 Firstly, After the failure of Cripps mission, Indians could not expect anything positive from British
Government.
 Secondly, because of the presence of British Government in India, India was fearing an attack by
Japanese Army.
And, this is quite obvious that in case of Japanese attack, not only Britain but India and Indian people will
also get badly affected.
Japan And Britain were fighting against each other in World
War II and Japan's only reason to attack India was the
presence of British Government in India.
Apart from this, due to India’s forceful involvement in World War II, Indian economy was going through a
very bad phase.
Quit India Resolution
Gandhiji himself felt that presence of British Government in India is an open invitation to Japan, to come
and Invade India.
In order to save India from Japanese attack and to bring Indian economy on track, Gandhiji thought of a
solution. And, the solution is just to force British out of India without any delay.
In July 1942, Congress Working Committee met at Wardha, Gujarat. Here, a resolution was passed. This
resolution is called Wardha Resolution and more popularly as Quit India Resolution.
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According to Quit India Resolution, Indian National Congress decided to initiate a mass movement under
the leadership of Gandhiji.
Voices against Quit India Movement, within Congress
It is not that everybody in Congress was convinced to start Quit India Resolution. There were a set of
people with INC who felt that it is not a good idea to initiate a movement at that time.
One of such leader was C Rajagopalachari, who resigned from INC in his protest against the initiation of
Quit India Movement.
C Rajagopalachari believed that British Government is busy in World War II, at this time if they start a
movement it can weaken the British Government and may lead to the situation that Japan or Germany
comes and Invade India. So, Rajaji felt that Quit India Movement may worsen the situation.
Quit India Movement Launched
On 9th August 1942, Gandhiji called for a meeting at Gowalia Tank, Bombay.
Gowalia Tank is now known as August Kranti Maidan, It is
currently in Mumbai.
Thousands of people gathered to hear Gandhiji, Here in this meeting Gandhiji officially launched the Quit
India Movement. And, the slogan he gave was “DO or Die”.
In his speech Gandhiji promised that this time he is not willing to do any kind of negotiation with the
Viceroy. Because, now Gandhiji was not ready to settle for anything less than complete independence.
While giving the slogan ‘Do or Die’ to the people of India, Gandhiji appealed to the people of India that
this time either the people of India will get Independent or die in the effort to achieve it.
Gandhiji gave instructions to different sections of the society:
 Government Officers were also not to leave their job. Instead, extend their support to congress openly,
while being in the job.
 Soldiers were asked not to leave their Posts and disobey any orders where they were asked to fire at
their own countrymen.
 Also, Peasants and Landlords were also not to pay revenue to the government.
Gandhiji gave an instruction to everybody who wish to join the movement.
It is possible that during the course of movement, congress leadership may not be able to issue instructions or guidance to the people
associated with the Movement. In such Circumstances, people were expected to decide on their own and consider themselves as free
citizen already.
How did the Quit India Movement Progressed ?
Within few hours of Gandhiji’s speech, entire Congress leadership including Gandhiji was put behind the
bars.
Press was gagged. Especially the 2 newspapers published by Gandhiji – Harijan and National Herald.
These 2 newspapers were banned for the entire during on Quit India Movement, however, other newspaper
was banned only for some time.
Within 6 to 7 weeks, movement was at its peak. People from different part of India joined the movement.
There were large number of cases reported related to Violence. Reason Being, Large number of people
joined the movement but there was no leaders to guide them as all big leaders were in jail.
Major Highlights of Quit India Movement
1. At lot of places, Indian Flag was unfurled on the government buildings.
2. Crowd were targeting to disrupt British communication system.
Railway track were removed, Telegraph lines were disrupted and telephone lines were set on fire.
Apart from this, Bridges were broken as well.

There were 1600 incidents of cutting telegraph lines reported at Karnataka alone.
3. Major highlight of Quit India Movement was the setting up of Parallel Government at multiple
places.
In some places, the revolutionaries made their local areas independent of the British rule. British
Authorities ran away from these places.
4. Students left the school and college. They played an important role in distributing the pamphlets
and spreading the awareness.
5. Underground Activities was also an important feature of this movement. This also includes the
use of Congress Radio Broadcast.
Ushaben managed to start the Congress Radio Broadcast with the help of Nanka Motwani. Nanka
Motwani was an owner of Chicago Radio Station, at America.
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6. As all the major leaders were in Jail, a number of young leaders came to fore. To name a few –
Achyut Patwardhan, Aruna Asif Ali, Ram Manohar Lohia, Sucheta Kriplani, Biju Patnaik,
Jayaprakash Narayan etc.
Gandhiji’s Fast
Amidst all this, in Feb 1943 the news start spreading that Gandhiji has started a 21 Day Fast. Gandhiji’s
fast was an act of protest against British government’s act of pressurising him to condemn the violence.
British government was forcing him to condemn the violence spread across due to Quit India Movement.
But, this time Gandhiji did not condemn the violent activities of the revolutionaries. Rather, He held
British government responsible of this violence.
Gandhiji said that the ongoing violence is just the reaction of larger violence done by the British
Government.
News of Gandhiji’s fast gave a new energy to the movement. Demonstrations and Strikes started all over.
As Gandhiji’s health was not so good. So, out of concern, thousands of appeals from all over India and
abroad started reaching government’s mailbox.
On 6th May 1944, Gandhiji was released from the Jail on medical grounds.
Outcome of the Movement
After Gandhiji came out of jail in May 1944, movement slowed down. And, when in June 1945, Lord
Wavell came up with his plan called Wavell Plan, Quit India Movement was formally ended.

CR Formula 1944 – C Rajagopalachari

CR Formula was given by INC leader Chakravarti Rajagopalachari. He was popularly known as Rajaji.
Rajaji served as the last Governor General of India between June 1948 to January 1950.
CR Formula is also known by two other names - C
Rajagopalachari Formula and Rajaji Formula.
Background
On 20 August 1917, British Secretary of state Edwin Montagu declared that British Government is looking
to grant the self government to Indians in longer run. This declaration of Edwin Montagu is called August
Declaration.
After the August Declaration right from year 1917, there were many efforts made by the British
government with regards to Indian constitutional advancement.
But, almost every effort made by British government in this direction failed. And the reason is that Indian
political parties could not come up to any agreement among themselves. Differences between Indian
National Congress and Muslim League were quite visible. All this lead to a situation of political deadlock
in India.
Infact, during second world war, Lord Linlithgow, the then viceroy of India gave a statement that if
Indians are serious for the constitutional settlement, then they should first settle the differences between
Muslim League and INC.
Reason of the Political Deadlock in India
Muslim League was demanding a separate state – ‘Pakistan’ for Muslims of India. Whereas, Indian
National Congress was no ready to any kind of division of Indian Union.
In order to end this deadlock, C Rajagopalachari came up with CR Formula in the year 1944. This was an
attempt to carve out a middle path between these 2 major political parties.
CR Formula Proposal
1. A commission would be formed which will be responsible for the conducting the plebiscite in the
muslim majority areas, to decide ( based on voting )whether people in these areas wanted a
separate country or not.
Which means, the proposed commision will first identify the muslim majority areas in the United India
and will then conduct the plebiscite.
2. In case, a separate country is formed based on Plebiscite, Then both the countries India and
newly formed ‘Pakistan’ will have to do a joint agreement and form a common centre for
Defence, Communication and Commerce.
3. CR Formula will be implemented only after British government transfers the power to India.
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Analysis of CR Formula
This is for the first time that Congress has agreed to some extent to accept Muslim League’s demand to
form separate country for Muslims.
At a glance, the proposed Formula looks good and it was expected that the political deadlock between the
Muslim League and INC would end.
Muslim League’s Response to CR Formula
Gandhiji began talks with Jinnah to discuss the CR Formula in the year 1944 itself. But, talks failed as
Jinnah had objections related to CR Formula’s proposals.
Why did Jinnah Rejected the CR Formula
Jinnah was particulary not happy with the way plebiscite was proposed to be conducted. As per the
proposal all the people living in the identified Muslim Majority areas were allowed to vote. Whereas,
Jinnah wanted only Muslim population to vote.
According to Jinnah - Hindus, Sikhs, Cristian living in Muslim
Majority Areas should not be allowed to vote in the proposed
Plebiscite.
Not only this, Jinnah was not ready to accept the idea of common centre between these 2 countries.
Thus, CR Formula was rejected by Muslim League.
Others, who too had opposed CR Formula
Sikh Community & Hindu Mahasabha were also opposing the CR Formula.
In Muslim Majority area – NWFP ( North West Frontier Province ) Sikhs were there in large numbers but
were not in majority in any of the districts. So, Sikh community knew that plebiscite would result in
separate Country. Which means, Sikh community had to separete from India even though they did not
want to.
Apart from this, Hindu Mahasabha leaders like – VD Savarkar and Shyama Prasad Mukherjee were also
opposing CR Formula as it was beyond their imagination that Muslim League’s demand could be taken
seriously.

Direct Action Day 1946

16 August 1946 – The Direct Action Day – was the day when city of Calcutta turned into a graveyard. This
day marks the biggest communal violence in the history of India.
Let’s Look at the sequence of events.
Lahore Resolution 1940
In the year 1940, Muslim League passed a resolution in its Lahore session. This resolution is called Lahore
resolution. In this resolution, the demand of forming a separate state for the muslim majority areas of
united India i.e. northwest and eastern part of India.
1946 Elections
During Dec 1945 – Jan 1946, elections were conducted for the provincial assembly and the centre. Main
issue of these election was the issue of Pakistan. Muslim League was appealing to the people for the cause
of Pakistan. Whereas, on the other side, Congress was appealing to the voters who wanted undivided
INDIA.
In these elections, a total of 492 seats were reserved for muslim candidates. Of these, Muslim League won
429 seats. Which is 87% of the total muslim reserved seats.

Total Muslim Reserved Muslim League Won seats won by Muslim

Seats 492 429 League 87 %

There was a huge improvement in performance of Muslim League. In 1937 provincial elections, Muslim
League could win only 20% of muslim reserved seats. Within just 9 years, it has able to increase its
penetration from 20% to 87%.
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Inference from 1946 Election Results

Results of 1936 Elections made 2 things very clear.
 Muslim League proved itself as the sole representative of Indian Muslims.
 Majority of muslim population was convinced that they wanted a separate state i.e. Pakistan.
Cabinet Mission 1946
In March 1946, Cabinet Mission came to India. In this mission, British government gave the concept of
provincial grouping.
As part of this provincial groupings, provinces were segregated into 3 sections – Section A, Section B and
Section C.
Initially, Jinnah accepted the cabinet mission plan because he could see the possibility of the formation of
Pakistan in this concept of provincial groupings.
But, Congress had a different interpretation of provincial grouping. Congress considered provincial
grouping as non-compulsory, something which can be amended later. Cabinet Mission agreed to
Congress’s interpretation.
Jinnah could not accept the Cabinet Mission plan unless the provincial grouping is made compulsory. As it
was not possible. Jinnah rejected the cabinet mission plan.
Since, INC accepted the plan and was also the party which won majority of seats in 1946 elections, Lord
Wavell invited Congress to form the Interim Government.
Declaration of Direct Action Day
Cabinet Mission plan proved to be a setback for Muslim League’s demand of separate state Pakistan.
Jinnah considered that British Government and INC had been unfair to the muslim league’s demand. And,
he took it as the suppression of entire muslim community. As a protest, M A Jinnah declared 16th August
1946 as the day of Direct Action.
Main motive behind the direct action was to show the extent to which Muslim community can go to get it
demand approved.
Jinnah had already given the warning in July 1946 to launch the Direct Action if the demand of separate
state for muslims is not accepted. He gave this warning in a press conference held at Jinnah’s house in
Bombay Presidency.
What happened on Direct Action Day
One of the most popular newspaper of Calcutta in those times – ‘The Star of India’ published the detailed
programme of the day, so that Masses can join. The Star of India was owned by one the MLA of Muslim
League.
Actually, it was Muslim League’s government in Bengal. And, Bengal’s Chief Minister H.S. Suhrawardy
not only sent police on a leave but was also responsible for creating disorder through his aggressive and
fiery speeches.
On 16th August, Right from the morning, there was tension in air. Shops were forcefully closed. News of
stabbing, pelting of stones and brickbats started arriving from multiple places in Bengal.
Areas where the major impact of direct action could be seen were Rajabazar, Kelabagan, College Street,
Harrison Road and Burrabazar. These were Hindu majority areas of the Calcutta.
Based on the original plan, people started to gather at Howrah, Hooghly, Metiabruz and 24 Parganas. From
these places, rally started and by 12’O Clock everybody reached Ochterlony Monument. Rally from
Ochterlony Monument was considered as the biggest rally seen.
Nowadays, Ochterlony Monument is refereed as Shaheed Minar.
Muslim Leagues had kept at least 3 to 4 party workers at every Mosque in the vicinity of Bengal. So, these
party workers were going everything to make people aware of Muslim League’s agenda behind direct
action to everyone coming to offer prayers in the mosque were.
At 2’O Clock, mob gathered again along with arms, lathis etc. As per the newspaper ‘Star of India’ – more
than 1 Lakh people gathered to hear the fiery speeches of Khwaja Nazimuddin and Chief Minister H.S.
Suhrawardy. Mob was really charged up to attack after this and then the communal riots triggered.
Direct Action – Death Toll
Within 72 hours of the declaration of direct action, 6000 people were killed. More than 20000 people were
badly injured and close to 1 lakh fled away and became homeless. The event of Direct Action Day is also
called “The Great Calcutta Killing”.
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During this great Calcutta Killing, mob attacked Kesoram Cotton Mills on 17 August. Here, 300 Oriya mill
workers who used to stay at Lichubagan, Metiabruz were ruthlessly butchered.
How did all this came to an end
Communal Violence which started on 16 August was still going on till 21 August. And then, Viceroy Rule
was implemented in Bengal on 21 August . 5 British Battalions along with 4 Gurkha battalions were
deployed to control this mess. As a result, communal activities slowed down by the end of the day of 22
August 1946.
Viceroy Lord Wavell asked Governor of Bengal – Fredrick Burrows for the detailed report. Fredrick
Burrows faced a lot of critics for his negligence in this matter.