Operation Polo, a key military operation carried out by the Indian Army in 1948 to integrate the princely state of Hyderabad, will commemorate its 75th anniversary on September 13, 2023. The Nizam of Hyderabad’s soldiers were forced to surrender to the Indian Army by September 18, 1948, as a result of this operation, also known as the “Police Action.” To fully grasp Operation Polo’s historical significance, one must be aware of the circumstances and events that led up to it.
Context of Operation Polo
(1) The Nizam’s Stand:
- After India’s independence in 1947, Mir Osman Ali Shah, the Nizam of Hyderabad, was hesitant to join either India or Pakistan.
- He took advantage of India diverting resources to the Kashmir dispute by agreeing to a stalemate in November 1947, retaining the status quo in Hyderabad.
(2) Growing Tensions:
- Hyderabad, a populated and rich Deccan state, was ruled by Muslims despite having a large Hindu population.
- The state and Pakistan did not share a boundary, but the Nizam wanted to have good relations with Pakistan.
- The acts of the Nizam’s army, particularly the Razakars, including cross-border incursions and overtures to Pakistan, increased tensions.
The Military Campaign: Operation Polo
(1) Hyderabad’s Forces and Situation:
- Hyderabad’s military consisted of approximately 25,000 troops with limited training and readiness.
- The Razakars, though numerous, posed a minor military challenge.
(2) Indian Army’s Leadership:
- Major General Jayanto Nath Chaudhuri, the General Officer Commanding of 1 Armoured Division, led the Indian forces.
(3) Multi-Directional Offensive:
- 1 Armoured Division, supported by forces from the north, south, and east, led the main assault from the west.
The Smash Force, Kill Force, and Vir Force were important components of the western assault. - The eastern front, Jabalpur, and Aurangabad all launched additional thrusts.
- From Vijayawada, the southern drive was initiated.
Conclusion: Surrender and Significance
(1) Cease-fire and Surrender:
- On September 17, 1948, the Nizam declared a cease-fire.
- Major General El Edroos submitted to him after Major General Chaudhuri arrived in Hyderabad on September 18.
- The Military Governor of Hyderabad was thereafter named Major General Chaudhuri.
(2) Honoring a Hero:
- Due to his contribution to Operation Polo, Havildar Bachhitar Singh of the 2 Sikh was posthumously given the first Ashoka Chakra of Independent India.
- On September 13, 1948, he gave his life in order to advance toward Naldurg, a region of Hyderabad state.
