GS PrelimsHistory (Modern India)Independence and Partition1998

The Indian National Congress agreed in 1947 to the partition of the country mainly because

A

the principle of two Nation theory was then acceptable to them

B

it was imposed by the British Government and the Congress was helpless in this regard

C

they wanted to avoid large-scale communal riots

D

India would have otherwise lost the opportunity to attain freedom

Correct Answer: Option C

Explanation

1. In 1947, the leadership of the Indian National Congress faced a complex situation regarding the demand for Pakistan and the partition of the country. 2. While the Congress had long opposed the two Nation theory and partition, the escalating communal riots and violence, particularly after the Direct Action Day in 1946, created an atmosphere where avoiding further bloodshed became a paramount concern. 3. Faced with the prospect of widespread civil war and the inability to maintain unity, the Congress leadership reluctantly agreed to partition mainly because they wanted to avoid large-scale communal riots and achieve a transfer of power, albeit of a divided India.

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