Operation Polo: The Swift Military Campaign That Changed Hyderabad Forever
Operation Polo was a pivotal military action undertaken by the newly independent Republic of India in September 1948, aimed at annexing the Princely State of Hyderabad. This operation marked a significant moment in India’s post-independence history and its quest for national integration.
Background to Operation Polo
In the wake of India’s partition in 1947, princely states were given three options: accede to India, accede to Pakistan, or remain independent. While most states chose to join India, the Nizam of Hyderabad, Mir Sir Osman Ali Khan, opted for independence, hoping to maintain his rule over a predominantly Hindu population with the support of a Muslim militia known as the Razakars. This situation raised alarms within the Indian government, particularly due to the growing unrest in the region, including the Telangana uprising and violent actions from the Razakars.
Background to Operation Polo
In the wake of India’s partition in 1947, princely states were given three options: accede to India, accede to Pakistan, or remain independent. While most states chose to join India, the Nizam of Hyderabad, Mir Sir Osman Ali Khan, opted for independence, hoping to maintain his rule over a predominantly Hindu population with the support of a Muslim militia known as the Razakars. This situation raised alarms within the Indian government, particularly due to the growing unrest in the region, including the Telangana uprising and violent actions from the Razakars.
Image Credit: Canva
Events Leading Up to the Operation
Initially, the Nizam sought recognition from the British to establish Hyderabad as a constitutional monarchy, but this proposal was rejected. Despite attempts to negotiate with various foreign powers, the Nizam’s independence aspirations drew increasing scrutiny from the Indian leadership. Deputy Prime Minister Sardar Vallabhai Patel was particularly concerned about the situation and advocated for military action as tensions escalated.
Events Leading Up to the Operation
Initially, the Nizam sought recognition from the British to establish Hyderabad as a constitutional monarchy, but this proposal was rejected. Despite attempts to negotiate with various foreign powers, the Nizam’s independence aspirations drew increasing scrutiny from the Indian leadership. Deputy Prime Minister Sardar Vallabhai Patel was particularly concerned about the situation and advocated for military action as tensions escalated.
In September 1948, a skirmish between Indian forces and the Hyderabadi military intensified the situation, prompting the Indian government to take decisive action. The operation was set for September 13, 1948, despite concerns from military leaders about opening an additional front for the Indian Army.
Image Credit: Canva The Operation Unfolds
Early on September 13, Indian forces crossed into Hyderabad. The first significant confrontation occurred at Naldurg Fort, where Indian troops overwhelmed the defending Hyderabadi forces. Utilising speed and surprise, the Indian Army quickly gained the upper hand, leading to heavy casualties among the Hyderabadis.
Over the following days, Indian troops advanced through strategic locations such as Rajeshwar, Jalna, and Latur, overcoming sporadic resistance from Razakar units. Air support played a crucial role, as aerial strikes cleared ambushes, allowing ground forces to secure key areas swiftly. By September 17, it was evident that the Razakar militia and Hyderabadi military were effectively defeated.
Conclusion of the Operation
The decisive moment came on September 17, when the Nizam announced a ceasefire. Following the surrender, Indian forces detained thousands, including Razakars and political opponents, leading to a chaotic legal environment as prisons became overcrowded. The Nizam ultimately abdicated, signing an instrument of accession that formally integrated Hyderabad into the Indian Union.
Legacy of Operation Polo
Operation Polo not only marked the end of Hyderabad’s princely status but also represented a crucial step in India’s journey towards unity and national integrity. It showcased the Indian government’s determination to address separatism and ensure that no princely state could threaten the newly formed republic’s sovereignty. This operation remains a significant chapter in the broader narrative of India’s post-independence history.
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