Transfer of Power & Partition — Set 13
National Movement · सत्ता हस्तांतरण और विभाजन · Questions 121–130 of 140
Mountbatten accelerated India's independence from June 1948 to August 1947. What was one major consequence?
Correct Answer: A. A. Inadequate planning for population transfers led to horrific communal violence
When Mountbatten accelerated Indian independence from June 1948 to August 1947, there was inadequate planning for the massive population transfer. The Radcliffe Line boundary was not announced until two days after independence, leaving people uncertain which side they were on. Communal violence spiraled out of control. Many historians argue that more time would have allowed better planning to prevent the worst violence.
What was the Patel-Jinnah formula for provincial representation in the Cabinet Mission Plan?
Correct Answer: A. A. Each major religious community would have proportional representation
Under the Cabinet Mission Plan, each major religious community was to have proportional representation in the executive council. This was meant to give Muslims security without creating a separate Pakistan. However, disagreements between Congress and the Muslim League over the interpretation of grouping provisions led to the plan's failure. The lack of a workable compromise made partition increasingly inevitable.
What was the significance of August 14, 1947 for Pakistan?
Correct Answer: A. A. Pakistan's Independence Day
August 14, 1947 is celebrated as Pakistan's Independence Day. Pakistan became an independent nation one day before India. Mohammed Ali Jinnah became the first Governor-General of Pakistan on this day. The dominion of Pakistan was carved out from the British Indian Empire.
Who chaired the Boundary Commission that drew the Radcliffe Line?
Correct Answer: A. A. Cyril Radcliffe
Sir Cyril Radcliffe chaired both the Punjab and Bengal Boundary Commissions. He had never visited India before and was given only five weeks to complete the task. The boundary line he drew is called the Radcliffe Line. His award was announced on August 17, 1947, two days after Independence.
Which plan proposed the partition of India into two dominions?
Correct Answer: A. A. Mountbatten Plan
The Mountbatten Plan of June 3, 1947 proposed the partition of British India into two independent dominions — India and Pakistan. It was also called the 3 June Plan. It provided for the division of Punjab and Bengal provinces. The plan was accepted by both the INC and the Muslim League.
What was the 'Direct Action Day' called by Muslim League in 1946?
Correct Answer: A. A. August 16, 1946
The Muslim League called Direct Action Day on August 16, 1946 to press for the demand for Pakistan. It led to massive communal violence, especially in Calcutta, known as the Great Calcutta Killings. Thousands of people died in the violence. The event heightened communal tensions and hastened the partition decision.
Which province was divided between India and Pakistan during the 1947 partition?
Correct Answer: A. A. Both Punjab and Bengal
Both Punjab and Bengal were divided during the partition of India in 1947. The western parts went to Pakistan and the eastern parts remained with India. The division led to one of the largest mass migrations in human history. Millions of people crossed the newly formed borders as refugees.
What was the 'Tryst with Destiny' speech delivered by Nehru on?
Correct Answer: A. A. Midnight of August 14-15, 1947
Jawaharlal Nehru delivered the famous 'Tryst with Destiny' speech at midnight on the night of August 14-15, 1947. He delivered it to the Constituent Assembly as India became independent. The speech is considered one of the greatest political speeches of the 20th century. It began with the words: 'Long years ago we made a tryst with destiny.'
Which act formally transferred power from British to Indian hands in 1947?
Correct Answer: A. A. Indian Independence Act 1947
The Indian Independence Act 1947, passed by the British Parliament, formally transferred power from British to Indian and Pakistani hands. It received royal assent on July 18, 1947. The Act created two independent dominions: India and Pakistan. It also abolished the position of Secretary of State for India.
Who was the first Prime Minister of Pakistan?
Correct Answer: A. A. Liaquat Ali Khan
Liaquat Ali Khan became the first Prime Minister of Pakistan on August 14, 1947. He was a close associate of Mohammed Ali Jinnah and a key leader of the Muslim League. He served as PM until his assassination in 1951. Mohammed Ali Jinnah became the first Governor-General, not the Prime Minister.