Forgotten Struggle: The 1946 Naval Mutiny - A Crucial Independence Moment

The 1946 Naval Mutiny: In the vast history of India's struggles for freedom, numerous movements and battles have been documented, showcasing the leadership of revered figures. However, amidst these well-known narratives, there exist unsung heroes whose invaluable contributions often remain confined to the pages of textbooks. Among these overlooked episodes is the Royal Indian Navy (RIN) Mutiny, also referred to as the Indian Naval Mutiny, a pivotal yet frequently forgotten uprising.

Initiating on February 18, 1946, the mutiny saw a diverse array of Indians, including laborers, farmers, and individuals from various backgrounds, rallying in support. Originating as a hunger strike among Navy personnel, the mutiny swiftly transformed into a widespread movement uniting citizens against the British Empire. This revolt played a significant role in India's quest for independence, underlining its importance in the historical struggle. It is a chapter that warrants remembrance by every Indian citizen.

Story of 1946 Naval Mutiny- Last War of Independence

In 1946, 20,000 non-commissioned sailors of the Royal Indian Navy mutinied. They were inspired by the heroism of the Azad Hind Fauj. But their anger was sparked by terrible service conditions, racism, and broken recruitment promises. In less than 48 hours, 20,000 men took over 78 ships and 21 shore establishments and replaced British flags with the entwined flags of the Congress, the Muslim League, and the communists.

The British panicked and announced a Cabinet Mission to discuss modalities of transfer of power. By this time, Indian troops had refused to fire on the ratings, and the mutiny sparked revolts in other branches of the armed forces. The young ratings presented a charter of demands, even as they fought pitched battles against British troops. People thronged the streets in support, and hartals were followed by street fights between civilians and British soldiers resulting in over 400 deaths and 1,500 injured.

To quell the rebellion, British commanded their powerful warship HMS Glasgow to sail rapidly from Trincomalee and ordered low sorties by the Royal Air Force fighter planes. In retaliation, the ratings trained the guns mounted on the captured ships towards the shore, threatening to blow Gateway of India, Yacht Club, and the dockyards.

As violence escalated, telegrams flew between the Viceroy¡¯s office and the British Cabinet. The British realized they could no longer hold India by force. While the communists continued to support the rebellious ratings, the Congress and the Muslim League persuaded them to surrender, promising they would not be victimized. Shamefully, years later, the governments of India and Pakistan refused to honour those promises after Independence.

The mutiny caused public disagreements between Gandhiji and Aruna Asaf Ali, and between Sardar Patel and Nehru. Historians say it accelerated the transfer of power. But this seminal event, which inspired songs, art and theatre has been edited out of the popular narratives of the Freedom Movement.

Forgotten Struggle: The 1946 Naval Mutiny - A Crucial Independence Moment | TOI

The Naval Mutiny marked the culmination of the British Empire's ambitions in India

The Naval Mutiny marked the culmination of the British Empire's ambitions in India, dealing the final blow to their aspirations. The RIN Revolt played a pivotal role in hastening the decline of British authority in the country. Leaders acknowledged that any widespread uprising carried the inherent risk of undermining the central government's hold on power. Moreover, there was a reluctance to foster indiscipline in the army once Freedom and authority had been established.

It's crucial to highlight that the uprising concluded following the intervention of nationalist leaders Muhammad Ali Jinnah and Sardar Patel. They called for the rebels' surrender, issuing a statement demanding their submission in response to appeals for British intervention. A meeting ensued between Sardar Patel and M. S. Khan, President of the Naval Central Strike Committee (NCSC), where assurances were given that no punitive measures would be taken.

In a statement issued on behalf of the Muslim League in Calcutta, Muhammad Ali Jinnah supported Patel's plea for the strikers to cease their actions. Subsequently, the rebels capitulated on February 23, 1946. The entire Indian populace, now more motivated than ever, eagerly anticipated the imminent demise of British rule.

The 1946 naval mutiny played a significant role in establishing civilian supremacy over colonialism and presented the ultimate challenge to the British government's ability to command its military forces.

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