Who was the British Prime Minister when India gained independence in 1947?

Question

Question

This question was previously asked in

SSC GD Constable 2025 Official Paper (Held On: 04 Feb, 2025 Shift 2)

Answer 1

The correct answer is Clement Attlee.

Key Points

Clement Attlee was the British Prime Minister from 1945 to 1951.
He led the Labour Party to victory in the 1945 general election, replacing Winston Churchill.
Under Attlee's leadership, the British government decided to grant independence to India.
The Indian Independence Act was passed on July 18, 1947, and India gained independence on August 15, 1947.
Attlee's government also oversaw the partition of India, leading to the creation of Pakistan.

Additional Information

Indian Independence Act 1947:
- This act was passed by the British Parliament and led to the partition of British India into two independent dominions, India and Pakistan.
- It marked the end of British rule in India and the transfer of power to Indian leaders.
Mountbatten Plan:
- Also known as the June 3rd Plan, it was the plan for the partition of India proposed by the last Viceroy of India, Lord Louis Mountbatten.
- It outlined the method of partition and was accepted by the Indian National Congress and the Muslim League.
Partition of India:
- The partition resulted in the creation of two independent dominions, India and Pakistan.
- It led to significant demographic shifts, with large-scale migrations and communal violence.
Labour Government Reforms:
- Under Attlee, the Labour government implemented significant reforms including the establishment of the National Health Service (NHS) and the nationalization of key industries.
- These reforms laid the foundations for the modern welfare state in the UK.