Viceroy During Shimla Conference 1945

The question asks to identify the Viceroy of British India during the Shimla Conference held in 1945. This conference was a significant event during the final years of British rule in India.

Understanding the Shimla Conference 1945

The Shimla Conference, convened in June 1945, was an attempt by the Viceroy of India to agree on a framework for India's future constitution. It was called by the then Viceroy, following the end of World War II and amid growing pressure for Indian independence. The main aim was to bring together the major Indian political parties, primarily the Indian National Congress and the All-India Muslim League, to discuss the formation of an interim government.

Identifying the Viceroy: Lord Wavell

Lord Wavell was the Viceroy of British India during the Shimla Conference of 1945. He initiated the conference hoping to break the political deadlock and form a broad-based executive council. The conference ultimately failed due to disagreements between the Congress and the Muslim League over the representation and selection of Muslim members in the executive council.

Other Viceroys Mentioned

The other options provided were Viceroys during different periods:

• Lord Willingdon: Served as Viceroy from 1931 to 1936.
• Lord Linlithgow: Served as Viceroy from 1936 to 1943. He was Viceroy when the Quit India Movement happened in 1942.
• Lord Irwin: Served as Viceroy from 1926 to 1931. He is known for the Irwin-Gandhi Pact.

Since Lord Wavell's tenure included 1945, he was the Viceroy during the Shimla Conference.

Conclusion

Therefore, the Viceroy of British India when the Shimla conference was held in 1945 was Lord Wavell.