Cabinet Mission Plan of 1946
The Cabinet Mission Plan of 1946 was the final attempt by the British to keep India united while transferring power. It was sent to India because the Cripps Mission had failed and the Indian political deadlock was worsening. The mission consisted of three British Cabinet Ministers: Lord Pethick-Lawrence (Secretary of State), Sir Stafford Cripps , and A.V. Alexander . ### 1. Key Proposals of the Plan The Mission rejected the Muslim League’s demand for a separate, sovereign Pakistan and instead proposed a three-tier federation : Union of India: There would be a Union of India, embracing both British India and the Princely States. It would deal only with three subjects: Defense, Foreign Affairs, and Communications . Grouping of Provinces: This was the most unique and controversial feature. Provinces were divided into three groups: Group A: Hindu-majority provinces (Madras, Bombay, UP, Bihar, CP, and Orissa). Group B: Muslim-majority provinces in the Northwest (Punjab, NWFP, and Sind...