When did Muslim League observe "Direct Action Day"?

History ·Previously asked in BPSC CCE 2024

View the full solved paper: GS 2024 (Series G)

Question

When did Muslim League observe "Direct Action Day"?

  1. A. 14 August 1946
  2. B. 15 August 1947
  3. C. 16 August 1946 (Correct answer)
  4. D. More than one of the above

Correct Answer

Option C — 16 August 1946

Detailed Solution & Explanation

The correct answer is 16 August 1946.

Key Points

  • The Muslim League observed 'Direct Action Day' on 16 August 1946, called by Muhammad Ali Jinnah to press its demand for a separate nation of Pakistan after rejecting the Cabinet Mission Plan.
  • The day led to catastrophic communal violence, especially the 'Great Calcutta Killings', in which thousands died over several days, and the riots then spread to Noakhali, Bihar and other regions.

Additional Information

  • Direct Action Day marked a decisive and tragic turn towards the eventual Partition of India in 1947.
  • The correct date is 16 August 1946, option (C) — not 14 August or 15 August, which are associated with Independence.