The separation of India and Pakistan occurred in 1947 during the process known as the Partition of British India.
1. Background: In the late 1940s, as India moved towards gaining independence from British rule, discussions arose regarding the political structure of the newly independent nation.
2. Two-Nation Theory: The Two-Nation Theory, proposed by Muhammad Ali Jinnah, argued that Hindus and Muslims were distinct nations with their own religious, social, and cultural identities. This theory formed the basis for the creation of Pakistan as a separate nation for Muslims.
3. Mountbatten Plan: The last Viceroy of India, Lord Louis Mountbatten, proposed a plan for the partition. The plan outlined the creation of two independent dominions, India and Pakistan, and the provinces and princely states were given the choice to join either India or Pakistan.
4. Radcliffe Line: To demarcate the boundary between India and Pakistan, a British lawyer, Sir Cyril Radcliffe, was appointed. He had never been to India before and had little knowledge of Indian conditions. The Radcliffe Line was drawn, dividing the provinces of Punjab and Bengal between the two nations.
5. Mass Migration: The partition led to massive inter-religious and inter-communal violence. Hindus and Sikhs in Pakistan migrated to India, while Muslims in India moved to Pakistan. The migration resulted in widespread displacement, communal riots, and loss of life.
6. Independence: On August 15, 1947, India gained independence, and two separate nations, India and Pakistan, were officially established.
The partition process, while intended to provide a peaceful transition, resulted in significant human suffering and communal strife. It remains a complex and sensitive historical event in the subcontinent.