Part of: Assam Gk set 23

Which district was separated from Assam and given to Pakistan in 1947?

Category: Assam Gk

Hint: Consider the historical context of the partition of India in 1947.

Correct Answer: C) Sylhet

Exam Relevance: UPSC, SSC, State PSC

Difficulty: Moderate

Explanations:

The partition of India in 1947 was a significant event that led to the creation of two separate nations, India and Pakistan. This partition also resulted in significant territorial changes, particularly in the northeastern region of India, including the state of Assam. One of the most notable changes was the transfer of the Sylhet district from Assam to East Pakistan (now Bangladesh).

Before the partition, Sylhet was a part of the Assam province. However, the partition led to a referendum in Sylhet to determine whether the district should remain with India or be transferred to Pakistan. The referendum, held in July 1947, resulted in a majority vote in favor of joining Pakistan. Consequently, the majority of Sylhet district was transferred to East Pakistan, with a small portion remaining in India.

It is important to understand the historical context of the partition of India to comprehend the territorial changes that occurred. The partition was a complex and often violent process that involved the division of not only political boundaries but also cultural and social landscapes. The transfer of Sylhet district is a specific example of how the partition affected the geographical and administrative boundaries of the region.

Other districts mentioned in the options, such as Chittagong and Khulna, were already part of East Bengal and did not undergo any significant territorial changes during the partition. Sholashahar, being a part of the city of Chittagong, was not affected by the partition either.

Understanding the territorial changes during the partition of India is crucial for students preparing for competitive examinations, particularly those related to Indian history and geography. It is essential to recognize the historical context and the specific events that led to the transfer of Sylhet district from Assam to East Pakistan.

Option Analysis:
  • Option A: Chittagong was not a part of Assam before the partition of India. It was already a part of East Bengal and did not undergo any change in territorial status during the partition.
  • Option B: Khulna was also not a part of Assam before the partition. It was a part of East Bengal and did not undergo any change in territorial status during the partition.
  • Option C: Sylhet was a part of Assam before the partition of India. Following a referendum in 1947, the majority of Sylhet district was transferred to East Pakistan (now Bangladesh), with a small portion remaining in India.
  • Option D: Sholashahar was not a district that was transferred from Assam to Pakistan. It is a part of the city of Chittagong and was not affected by the territorial changes during the partition of India.

Mnemonic: Sylhet to Sylhet, a parting set.

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