The Untold Story Behind India’s Independence Date
India’s Independence Date: On 15th August 1947, India broke free from British rule after decades of struggle and countless sacrifices. While the freedom movement spanned generations, the story behind the choice of this exact date is as intriguing as the independence struggle itself.
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Why India’s Independence Date 15th August?
In their book Freedom at Midnight, French authors Dominique Lapierre and Larry Collins reveal that the decision was made during a press conference by then Governor General Lord Mountbatten. When unexpectedly asked about the date of India’s independence, Mountbatten instantly recalled 15th August 1945 — the day Japan surrendered in World War II to him as the supreme allied commander of the South-East Asia Command.
Mountbatten’s Personal Connection
For Mountbatten, the surrender of Japan was a proud milestone. Without much deliberation, he announced 15th August 1947 as India’s Independence Day during that press conference. The British Parliament later formalized this date through the Indian Independence Act 1947.
The Indian Independence Act 1947
Passed by both the House of Commons and the House of Lords on 18 July 1947, the Act legally ended British colonial rule in India and created two new dominions — India and Pakistan. Both nations were given the option to remain dominions or become fully sovereign states.
Dominion Status and Transition
India remained a Dominion of Britain from 15 August 1947 until 26 January 1950, when the Constitution came into effect, making India a fully sovereign republic. Pakistan, however, retained Dominion status until 1956.
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