Understanding the Mountbatten Plan

The Mountbatten Plan, also known as the 3 June Plan, was a proposal by Lord Mountbatten, the last Viceroy of India, to partition British India into two new independent states: the Union of India and the Dominion of Pakistan. This plan was crucial in determining the future of the Indian subcontinent as British rule was coming to an end.

Mountbatten Plan Declaration Date

The question asks for the official date when the "Mountbatten Plan" regarding the partition of India was declared. This is a key historical date related to India's independence and partition.

Analyzing the Options

Let's look at the provided options:

1. 04 June 1947
2. 10 June 1947
3. 03 July 1947
4. 03 June 1947

We need to identify which of these dates corresponds to the official announcement of the Mountbatten Plan.

Determining the Correct Date

Historically, the Mountbatten Plan was formulated after discussions with Indian leaders including Jawaharlal Nehru, Sardar Patel, Muhammad Ali Jinnah, Abul Kalam Azad, and others. The plan was then officially announced.

The official declaration of the Mountbatten Plan took place on 03 June 1947. This date is significant as it set in motion the process for the partition and independence of India.

Summary of the Mountbatten Plan

Key features of the Mountbatten Plan included:

• Partition of British India into India and Pakistan.
• Princely states would have the option to join either India or Pakistan or remain independent (though independence was not a practical option).
• Bengal and Punjab provinces would be divided based on district-wise Muslim or non-Muslim majority.
• Referendums would be held in the North-West Frontier Province (NWFP) and the Sylhet district of Assam to decide which country they would join.
• A Boundary Commission would be set up to finalize the borders.

Conclusion

The official declaration date of the Mountbatten Plan was 03 June 1947. This date is pivotal in the history of the Indian subcontinent.

Revision Table: Mountbatten Plan Facts

Additional Information: Indian Independence Act 1947

Following the declaration of the Mountbatten Plan on 03 June 1947, the British Parliament passed the Indian Independence Act 1947 based on this plan. This Act received royal assent on 18 July 1947. The Act formalized the division of British India into two independent dominions, India and Pakistan, granting them full legislative authority. It also abolished the office of the Viceroy and provided for the appointment of Governors-General for each dominion.