Question

Who among the following entered into the Standstill Agreement with India in November 1947?

• A. Maharaja of Manipur
• B. Maharaja of Kashmir
• C. Nawab of Junagadh
• D. Nizam of Hyderabad

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

In November 1947, the Nizam of Hyderabad entered into a Standstill Agreement with India. A Standstill Agreement was a temporary arrangement acknowledging the princely states' autonomy, while India sought to integrate them into the Union. Here's the context: 

• Historical Context: When British rule ended in 1947, over 500 princely states had the option to join either India or Pakistan, or remain independent. India sought the accession of these states to maintain territorial integrity.
• Hyderabad's Strategic Importance: Hyderabad, ruled by the Nizam, was one of India's largest and most prosperous princely states. Its central location and geopolitical significance made its accession crucial for India.
• The Agreement: The Standstill Agreement enabled Hyderabad to maintain its current status while discussions on its eventual accession continued. It was a strategic move, averting immediate conflict as political negotiations advanced.

Thus, the Nizam of Hyderabad's decision to enter this agreement was pivotal in shaping India's post-independence political landscape.

Answer 2

The Nizam of Hyderabad entered into a Standstill Agreement with India in November 1947.

Additional Context:

• The Standstill Agreement maintained existing arrangements temporarily after independence
• Hyderabad, under Nizam Osman Ali Khan, sought to remain independent
• Agreement collapsed in 1948 leading to "Operation Polo" and Hyderabad's accession to India
• Other princely states like Junagadh and Kashmir had different accession timelines
• Manipur had already acceded to India in August 1947

Correct Answer: (4) Nizam of Hyderabad