Princely states were semi-autonomous regions in India during British colonial rule. They were governed by local rulers under British suzerainty. After India gained independence in 1947, the status of these states became contentious. There were 565 princely states, each with unique circumstances regarding their accession to India or Pakistan.
Hyderabad – The Largest Princely State
Hyderabad was the richest princely state in India, located in the Deccan Plateau. The Nizam, Mir Usman Ali, ruled over a predominantly Hindu population. He sought an independent state and resisted joining India. The Nizam received support from Muhammad Ali Jinnah, the leader of Pakistan.
Political Tensions in Hyderabad
As tensions escalated, the Nizam expanded his army by importing arms from Europe. The situation worsened with the emergence of the Razakars, armed fanatics who targeted Hindus. The Government of India, led by Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, attempted mediation but failed.
Operation Polo
Following Lord Mountbatten’s resignation in June 1948, the Government of India took decisive action. On September 13, 1948, Indian troops launched ‘Operation Polo’. The operation lasted four days, resulting in Hyderabad’s integration into India.
Post-Accession Governance
After Hyderabad’s accession, the Nizam was appointed as the governor of the newly integrated state. This decision aimed to ease tensions and maintain stability in the region.
Junagadh – A Controversial Accession
Junagadh was a princely state on the southwestern coast of Gujarat. The Nawab, Muhammad Mahabat Khanji III, ruled over a majority Hindu population. On September 15, 1947, he decided to accede to Pakistan, ignoring Indian sentiments.
Reactions to Junagadh’s Accession
The decision sparked outrage among neighbouring states, leading to military conflict. Mangrol and Babariawad, under Junagadh’s suzerainty, declared independence and joined India. The Nawab responded with military force, escalating tensions further.
Indian Intervention
India viewed the situation as a potential threat to communal harmony. The government cut off supplies to Junagadh and sent troops to the border. On October 26, 1947, the Nawab fled to Pakistan amidst clashes.
Administration of Junagadh
With the Nawab’s departure, the Dewan of Junagadh, Sir Shah Nawaz Bhutto, invited India to take over administration. The Government of India accepted this invitation. A plebiscite in February 1948 confirmed Junagadh’s accession to India.
Integration into Indian States
Junagadh became part of the state of India of Saurashtra. On November 1, 1956, Saurashtra merged into Bombay state. In 1960, Bombay was divided into Maharashtra and Gujarat, placing Junagadh within Gujarat.
Kashmir – A Complex Situation
Kashmir was a princely state ruled by a Hindu king, Maharaja Hari Singh, over a predominantly Muslim population. The region had strategic significance and remained undecided about its accession.
Standstill Agreement
Maharaja Hari Singh proposed a standstill agreement to both India and Pakistan. Pakistan accepted, but soon invaded Kashmir with tribal forces on October 24, 1947.
Appeal for Help
Facing invasion, the Maharaja sought assistance from India. He sent Sheikh Abdullah to negotiate. On October 26, 1947, he signed the ‘Instrument of Accession’, allowing Indian jurisdiction over defence, external affairs, and communications.
Military Involvement
Following the accession, Indian troops were airlifted into Kashmir. They fought alongside local forces to repel the invaders.
Formation of Interim Government
On March 5, 1948, the Maharaja announced an interim government with Sheikh Mohammed Abdullah as Prime Minister. This marked a shift towards local governance.
Constitutional Developments
In 1951, Jammu and Kashmir elected a constituent assembly. It convened for the first time on October 31, 1951. In 1952, the Delhi Agreement was signed, granting special status to Jammu and Kashmir within India.
Article 370 and Special Status
On February 6, 1954, the Jammu and Kashmir constituent assembly ratified the accession. The Indian President issued a constitutional order extending Indian laws with modifications. Article 370 provided special autonomy to Jammu and Kashmir.
Abrogation of Article 370
On August 5, 2019, the Government of India abrogated Article 370. This action revoked the special status of Jammu and Kashmir. It allowed Indian laws to apply uniformly to the region.
Impact of Accession
The accession of these princely states shaped modern India. It resolved territorial disputes and established the framework for state governance. The integration process faced various challenges, including communal tensions and military conflicts.
Legacy of Princely States
The legacy of princely states remains influential in contemporary Indian politics. Issues of regional autonomy and identity continue to resonate. The historical context shapes ongoing discussions about governance and unity.
