Explanation: The integration of the princely state of Hyderabad into the Indian Union was a significant event in the history of India. Hyderabad was a large and wealthy princely state ruled by the Nizam, who was a Muslim ruler. After India gained independence in 1947, the Indian government, under the leadership of Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru and Home Minister Vallabhbhai Patel, began the process of integrating the princely states into the Indian Union.
The Nizam of Hyderabad, however, was reluctant to accede to India and instead sought to maintain the state's independence. This led to a series of conflicts and tensions between the Indian government and the Nizam. The Nizam's forces, known as the Razakars, were involved in violent activities against the Indian government and its supporters within the state.
In response to the Nizam's refusal to accede and the increasing violence, the Indian government decided to take action. On September 13, 1948, the Indian Army, along with police forces, launched a police operation known as Operation Polo. The operation was designed to integrate Hyderabad into the Indian Union by force if necessary. The operation was swift and successful, with the Indian forces quickly overcoming the resistance of the Nizam's forces.
The police operation was significant because it demonstrated the Indian government's resolve to integrate all princely states into the Indian Union. It also marked the end of the Nizam's rule and the beginning of Hyderabad's integration into the Indian political system. The operation was named "Operation Polo" as a play on words, referring to the sport of polo, which was popular among the ruling class of Hyderabad.
In conclusion, the merger of Hyderabad with the Indian Union was achieved through a police operation, which was a military action carried out by the Indian Army and police forces. This operation was a crucial event in the integration of princely states into the Indian Union and played a significant role in shaping the political landscape of post-independence India.