Previous Year Question
Which of the following observed “Direct Action Day” on 16 August 1946 during the Indian National Movement?
A.
Muslim League
B.
Indian National Congress
C.
Indian National Army (INA)
D.
Swaraj Party
Correct Answer: A
Detailed Solution
The Muslim League observed 16 August 1946 as “Direct
Action Day.”
On 29 July 1946, the Council of the Muslim League withdrew its acceptance of the Cabinet Mission Plan and decided to resort to “Direct Action.” It subsequently called upon Muslims to observe 16 August 1946 as Direct Action Day. Historian Peter Hardy records this decision in The Muslims of British India.
The action was intended to press the Muslim League's demand for Pakistan. The day was followed by severe communal violence in Calcutta, commonly associated with the Great Calcutta Killing.