Why Independence came late for these Indians in 1947

India Today

a day ago

India's independence from British colonial rule was officially declared on August 15, 1947, and the day has since been celebrated nationwide with great pride. However, in two districts of West Bengal, primarily in Nadia and parts of Malda, Independence Day holds a special significance on August 18.This unusual observance is not just a matter of local pride but a reminder of a complicated chapter in India's partition history. Due to a cartographic error by the Boundary Commission during the division of British India and delays in finalising territorial boundaries, some areas of Nadia were mistakenly included in East Pakistan (now Bangladesh).advertisementAfter protests and a correction ordered by then-Viceroy Lord Mountbatten, these areas were officially recognised as part of India only on the night of August 17, 1947. Consequently, the Indian flag was hoisted there on August 18, marking their true day of freedom.
Since 1991, the people of these districts have commemorated August 18 as Independence Day alongside the national celebrations on August 15, creating a unique dual observance that highlights this local history of resilience and identity.THE CARTOGRAPHIC ERROR THAT CHANGED HISTORYWhen British India was partitioned, the Radcliffe Line, drawn by Cyril Radcliffe, was meant to divide territories between India and Pakistan. However, this boundary line mistakenly placed parts of Nadia district, including areas with predominantly Hindu populations, into East Pakistan. This error caused immediate unrest and fears among the local people, who were uncertain about their future and safety.The people of Nadia, including leaders and influential families, protested vigorously against the inclusion of their districts in East Pakistan.News of these protests reached the outgoing British Viceroy, Lord Mountbatten, who then instructed Radcliffe to rectify the boundary error. As a result, a redrawn map correcting the mistake was announced on the night of August 17, 1947.Following the boundary revision, the Pakistani flag that had been hoisted in parts of Nadia was taken down, and the Indian Tricolour was raised on August 18, 1947.This date has since been celebrated locally as the true day when these areas achieved independence from colonial rule and became part of India.A SYMBOL OF HISTORICAL MEMORY AND LOCAL IDENTITYToday, the August 18 Independence Day celebration reflects the community's deep connection to its history and identity. It serves as a reminder of the complex and sometimes painful process of partition and independence.The celebrations are supported by local officials, cultural groups, and even the Border Security Force, ensuring this unique tradition continues to thrive alongside India's broader national celebrations.While August 15 remains India's official Independence Day, August 18 stands as a powerful symbol in parts of Nadia district to commemorate their late but meaningful freedom, a story of correction, resilience, and pride that enriches the tapestry of India's independence narrative.- Ends