India celebrated the 75th anniversary of Operation Polo on September 13, 2023, marking the military action taken in 1948 to integrate the princely state of Hyderabad into the newly independent nation. The Nizam of Hyderabad, Mir Osman Ali Shah, had initially sought to maintain Hyderabad as an independent entity but signed a standstill agreement with India in November 1947. However, Hyderabad’s strategic location, the desire for fraternal relations with Pakistan, and the rise of the paramilitary force known as the Razakars led to Operation Polo. Indian forces, led by Maj Gen Jayanto Nath Chaudhuri, achieved success, and Hyderabad was integrated into India.
Facts/Terms for UPSC Prelims
- Nizam of Hyderabad: Mir Osman Ali Shah, the ruler of the princely state of Hyderabad, who initially intended to keep Hyderabad independent after India’s independence.
- Standstill Agreement: An agreement signed between Hyderabad and India in November 1947, maintaining the status quo until a solution was found for Hyderabad’s integration into India.
- Razakars: A paramilitary force in the Hyderabad State led by Maj Gen SA El Edroos, which resisted the integration of Hyderabad into India and perpetrated atrocities against Hindus, including forced conversions and violence.
- Maj Gen Jayanto Nath Chaudhuri: The General Officer Commanding of 1 Armoured Division who led the Indian forces during Operation Polo.
- Military Governor of Hyderabad: Maj Gen Jayanto Nath Chaudhuri, who was appointed as the Military Governor of Hyderabad after the successful conclusion of Operation Polo.
