In the tumultuous period leading up to India’s independence in 1947, the “Plan Balkan” emerged as a contentious proposal that profoundly influenced the course of events. Proposed by Lord Mountbatten, the last Viceroy of India, this plan aimed to address the complex issue of partitioning British India into two separate nations: India and Pakistan. The term “Plan Balkan” draws parallels with the Balkanization of the Balkan Peninsula, which saw the fragmentation of a once-unified region into several smaller and often conflicting states. In the context of British India, it reflected fears of a similarly fragmented and volatile subcontinent.
Lord Mountbatten, who came to India in March 1947 as Viceroy to manage the transfer of power, initially had a plan to divide the country into around twelve autonomous provinces, as per a Channel 4 documentary. The information about “Plan Balkan” comes from Lakshman Menon, the grandson of V.P. (Vappala Pangunni) Menon. V.P. Menon served as a constitutional adviser and political reforms commissioner to the last three Viceroys (Linlithgow, Wavell, and Mountbatten) during British rule in India.
Balkanisation means breaking up a big area or country into smaller parts that might not get along. This happens because of differences in things like ethnicity, culture, and religion, as well as other issues like past problems. It’s usually seen in a negative way. Sometimes, a powerful country is blamed for encouraging this breakup. Critics of change often use the term to warn about the risks of bitter disagreements or uncontrolled splitting.
The Secret Meeting in Shimla:
- The events in Shimla in May 1947 played a crucial role in shaping the partition of India. Lady Mountbatten invited V.P. Menon, a key advisor, to join them in Shimla. However, there was an unexpected guest with the Mountbatten: Nehru, seen in footage riding a horse.
Mountbatten’s Bold Move:
Lord Mountbatten, in a secret memo, expressed his desire to seek Nehru’s opinion on the new draft, known as Plan Balkan, despite advice against it. Nehru was furious after reading it, as predicted by Menon.
The Menon Plan:
In response to the crisis, Menon offered an alternative plan during an urgent meeting at the Viceregal Lodge. Lady Mountbatten, holding her husband’s hand, looked distraught. Menon then presented his plan, differing from Plan Balkan by proposing the transfer of power to just two countries: India and Pakistan.
Nehru’s Agreement:
To Menon’s relief, Nehru agreed to the plan after reading it. Mountbatten, taking credit for the plan, was ecstatic, even though he had little involvement in it.
The Mountbatten Plan:
The plan presented by Menon, despite being credited to Mountbatten, became known as the Mountbatten Plan. Menon was offered a knighthood, which he politely declined, feeling conflicted about being honored for devising the partition of his country.
In conclusion, the events surrounding the partition of India, particularly the crucial meeting in Shimla in May 1947, shed light on the complex dynamics and decisions that shaped the course of history. Despite initial plans for Balkanization, it was V.P. Menon’s alternative proposal, presented in a moment of crisis, that ultimately influenced the partition process. Nehru’s agreement with Menon’s plan, albeit with Mountbatten taking credit, led to the adoption of what is now known as the Mountbatten Plan. This historical episode highlights the significant role of individuals like Menon, whose strategic thinking and alternative proposals played a decisive role in shaping the future of millions. It also underscores the complexity of historical narratives, where credit and recognition often don’t accurately reflect the contributions of key figures.
Also Read: Mountbatten Plan