The Battle for Hyderabad: Operation Polo and the Struggle for 'Liberation' vs 'Integration'

:calendar: September 17 is a significant date in the history of Hyderabad.

:flag-in: There was a disagreement between political parties regarding the naming of this day.

:briefcase: Hyderabad was a princely state ruled by the Nizam before its liberation or integration over 75 years ago.

📜 The last Nizam of Hyderabad, Osmal Ali Khan, was once the wealthiest man in the world and introduced modern infrastructure to the state.

⚔️ The rule of Osmal Ali Khan ended in 1948 when Hyderabad refused to merge with India after its independence.

🏰 There is a documented history of both progress and widespread feudal oppression during the rule of the Nizams in Hyderabad.

📅 On 17 September, Operation Polo took place, leading to the 'liberation' vs 'integration' fight in Hyderabad.

👑 The nizam of Hyderabad signed a standstill agreement with India, giving control over Foreign Affairs, defense, and Communications to India.

🔥 The MIM, loyal to the nizam, opposed Hyderabad's integration into India, and Qasim Razvi led a private militia called razakars that committed atrocities.

🏰 The history of Hyderabad and the conflict between the razakars and the state.

💥 Violence and atrocities committed by the razakars and the state support they received.

🌍 The changing landscape in the rest of India and the revolt against Hyderabad's integration.

📚 Operation Polo began in September 1948 with the entry of Indian troops into Hyderabad.

⚔️ Indian forces advanced on multiple fronts along the Hyderabad border.

🔁 Hyderabad's last prime minister described the events as a tactical retreat.

📜 Hyderabad officially acceded to India after the surrender of the Nizam on 17th September 1948.

⚔️ Operation Polo resulted in heavy losses and casualties, with estimates of 27 to 40,000 Muslims killed during and after the violence.

🔥 Writing and targeted violence against Muslims continued in Hyderabad after the end of Operation Polo.

⚔️ Operation Polo led to a backlash against Muslims and the loss of many lives in Razakar strongholds.

✊ The Communist armed struggle persisted until 1951.

🔴 The fight over 'liberation' versus 'integration' in Hyderabad remains contentious.