Letter from Hyderabad to M.A. Jinnah regarding Parliamentary Scrutiny of the Independence Bill

Sub title : A Confidential Letter on the Indian Independence Bill and Hyderabad's Position

Subject: Indian Independence Act 1947 | Partition of India | Hyderabad State | British Parliament | Parliamentary Strategy

Date of publication: 1947

Language: English

Page: 2 p.

Source: National Archives of Pakistan

Serial no: 28116

Keyword: M.A. Jinnah -- Indian Independence Bill 1947 -- Hyderabad -- Lord Templewood -- Sir Stafford Cripps | British Parliament -- Partition -- Princely States -- Parliamentary Debate -- Political Strategy.

Abstract: This confidential letter, written from Hyderabad on July 3, 1947, is addressed to M.A. Jinnah. The writer reports on intelligence from his Personal Assistant in London regarding the progress of the Indian Independence Bill in the British Parliament. It notes that the bill "bears the imprint of Sir Stafford Cripps" and outlines the planned parliamentary timetable. Crucially, it conveys a message from British parliamentarians, including Lord Templewood (formerly Sir Samuel Hoare), urging both the writer and Jinnah to scrutinize the bill carefully. The writer suggests that a "careful and moderate but critical" speech from Jinnah, covering points affecting both Pakistan and Hyderabad, would greatly aid their cause in the upcoming Parliamentary debates. The letter represents high-level, coordinated strategy between the Muslim League and Hyderabad on the eve of Partition.

Description: This letter is a significant document from the immediate pre-Partition period. It reveals the behind-the-scenes diplomatic and parliamentary lobbying efforts undertaken by major stakeholders as the British Parliament finalized the legislation to transfer power. The focus on Jinnah's potential speech highlights his central role as the key advocate for Pakistan's interests. The explicit link made between the fates of Pakistan and Hyderabad underscores the interconnected political calculations of the time. The reference to coded communication and discussions with the British Opposition adds a layer of clandestine diplomacy. This letter provides a unique snapshot of the urgent, high-stakes negotiations that shaped the final terms of Indian independence and the creation of Pakistan. SCANNED BY: NATIONAL ARCHIVES OF PAKISTAN.

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