CHANGE IN THE DATE OF INDEPENDENCE: WHY DID WE GET FREEDOM ON AUGUST 15, 1947 AND NOT ON JUNE 30,1948

CHANGE IN THE DATE OF INDEPENDENCE: WHY DID WE GET FREEDOM ON AUGUST 15, 1947 AND NOT ON JUNE 30,1948

15-AUG-ENG 14

RAJIV NAYAN AGRAWAL

ARA--------------------------India celebrates Independence Day every year on 15 August, the day the country gained independence from British colonial rule. This day is not only a symbol of national pride but also a tribute to the sacrifices and struggles of millions of freedom fighters who sacrificed their lives to liberate the country. But the question arises that why is Independence Day celebrated only on 15 August? The reason behind this is related to historical and political events, which reflect the circumstances of that time.

British rule in India began in 1757 after the Battle of Plassey, when the East India Company began its control over the country. Indians launched many movements against this rule which lasted for almost two centuries, including important milestones like the First War of Independence of 1857, Non-Cooperation Movement, Civil Disobedience Movement and Quit India Movement. These movements increased pressure on the British government and after the Second World War, due to the weakening of Britain's economic and military position, it became difficult to maintain their rule in India.

Britain's economic system had to suffer a lot during the Second World War. In such a situation, it became a big challenge for the British Empire to maintain colonialism in India. In the year 1946, the British Parliament decided that India would be freed by 30 June 1948. For this, Lord Mountbatten was appointed the last Viceroy of India. But the freedom fighters were not in favor of waiting till 1948. In view of the discontent and possibility of violence among the people of the country, Mountbatten decided that the transfer of power should be done on 15 August 1947. Historical day of 15 August 1947.

By 1947, the British government had decided to grant independence to India. The British Parliament passed the Indian Independence Act on 18 July 1947, which provided for dividing India into two independent countries, India and Pakistan. Under this Act, India formally got independence on 15 August 1947. But why was the date of 15 August chosen? The reason behind this was the administrative and political strategy of the British government.

Lord Mountbatten, who was the last Viceroy of India at that time, chose the date of 15 August because it was the second anniversary of Japan's surrender during World War II. Japan surrendered to the Allies on 14 August 1945 and Mountbatten considered this date suitable for India's independence, giving it symbolic importance. Apart from this, the British government wanted to end its rule from India as soon as possible and the date of 15 August was suitable for administrative preparations.

On the night of 14 August 1947, a special meeting of the Constituent Assembly was held in New Delhi, in which Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru declared India's independence in his historic speech "Tryst with Destiny". At exactly midnight, on 15 August 1947, India formally became independent. At this time, the tricolor was hoisted at the Red Fort in Delhi and Nehru addressed the nation and called for realizing the dreams of independence.

The day of 15 August is not just a date, but is seen as a symbol of the reconstruction and independence of India. This day reminds us of the freedom fighters, in which heroes like Bhagat Singh, Mahatma Gandhi, Subhash Chandra Bose, Rani Lakshmibai sacrificed their lives. This day connects the countrymen with the spirit of unity, equality and progress.

Every year 15 August is celebrated as a national holiday in India. The Prime Minister's address to the country from the Red Fort, hoisting of the tricolor, parade and cultural programs are the features of this day. This day is not only an occasion to celebrate the joy of independence, but also a time to reflect on the challenges facing the country and the responsibilities of the future.

On 15 August 1947, India achieved independence after a long struggle and this date was the result of the strategy of the British government and historical coincidence. This day is a symbol of pride and inspiration for every Indian. Independence Day reminds us that the price of freedom is priceless and we have to make continuous efforts to maintain it.