Mountbatten Plan proposed partition, sparking violence and displacement of millions on June 3, 1947

Why in news

The Mountbatten Plan and the subsequent Indian Independence Act of 1947 are highlighted as the foundational legal and political framework for the partition of India.

Background

The Mountbatten Plan was proposed on June 3, 1947, by the British government under Viceroy Lord Mountbatten. It culminated in the Indian Independence Act of 1947, which officially transferred power to India and Pakistan on August 15, 1947.

Facts for Prelims

• PostLord Mountbatten served as the last Viceroy of India.
• Act / BillThe Indian Independence Act of 1947 was the legislative instrument that ended British rule.
• FactThe Mountbatten Plan was proposed on June 3, 1947.

For Mains

Q. Discuss how the Mountbatten Plan and the Indian Independence Act of 1947 shaped the geopolitical and social landscape of the Indian subcontinent.

Dimensions to cover in your answer

• communal violence and displacement
• constitutional transition
• geopolitical legacy

Keywords: Partition · Decolonization · Communal Violence · Transfer of Power

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