Question

What is meant by 'Instrument of Accession'?

Hint:

Think of the Instrument of Accession as a “joining agreement” — the document through which princely states legally became part of India.

Answer 1

The Instrument of Accession was a legal document that allowed princely states in India to join the newly independent nation after 1947. When the British left India, nearly 565 princely states were given the choice to join either India or Pakistan, or in rare cases, remain independent. To formalize this process, the Instrument of Accession was used.
By signing this document, the ruler of a princely state agreed to transfer powers relating to defense, foreign affairs, and communications to the Government of India, while retaining autonomy in other internal matters. This provided a constitutional framework for integrating princely states into the Indian Union.
Key Features:
1. It was a voluntary agreement signed by the ruler of the state.
2. It granted India authority over defense, foreign policy, and communication only, leaving other powers with the state initially.
3. It was the basis for India’s political integration, led by Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel and V.P. Menon.
Example:
The most famous use of the Instrument of Accession was by Maharaja Hari Singh of Jammu and Kashmir in 1947, which led to the integration of J& K into India.
Conclusion:
Thus, the Instrument of Accession was a key legal tool that enabled the peaceful integration of princely states into the Indian Union, laying the foundation for a united and democratic India.