Background and Political Landscape at Independence
- At the time of India’s independence in 1947, Rajasthan comprised 19 princely states, 3 Thikanas (Lava, Kushalgarh, Neemrana), and one union territory, Ajmer-Merwara. These entities were governed by local rulers who maintained autonomy under the British rule.
- The Government of India Act of 1935 aimed to integrate these princely states into the All India Union, promoting a united nation. However, the act’s recommendations were not implemented due to resistance from the princely rulers, who feared losing their power and status.
Efforts Towards Integration
- In 1939, Governor General Lord Linlithgow emphasized the need for merging the princely states into a unified India, recognizing that the disjointed political entities could hinder India’s progress towards nationhood.
- Subsequent efforts to integrate these princely states were made through the Cripps Mission (1942) and the Cabinet Mission (1946). Both missions proposed plans to merge the princely states into the Indian Union to ensure a smooth transition to independence.
Rajasthan Union Initiatives
- On June 25-26, 1946, Maharana Bhupal Singh of Mewar organized a conference in Udaipur. This gathering included the rulers of Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Malwa, where Maharana Bhupal Singh proposed plans to create a “Rajasthan Union,” aiming to bring the region’s princely states under a single administrative structure.
- A follow-up meeting was held on May 23, 1947, under the advice of K.M. Munshi, where Maharana Bhupal Singh once again invited the rulers to Udaipur to discuss the integration process.
- Jaipur Maharaja Sawai Mansingh II supported these efforts and, with the approval of Diwan Sir V.T. Krishnamachari, convened another conference of rulers and their representatives to discuss a united front for Rajasthan.
- Additionally, Kota’s Maharao Bhim Singh and Dungarpur’s Maharawal Laxman Singh also made efforts towards the merger, indicating a growing realization of the need for integration among some rulers.
Role of the Princely Secretariat
- On July 5, 1947, the Government of India formed the Princely Secretariat to facilitate the integration of princely states into India.
- President: Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, India’s then Home Minister, led the secretariat.
- Secretary: V.P. Menon, an Indian civil servant, served as the secretary, playing a key role in negotiating the accession of princely states.
- The secretariat outlined that princely states with a population exceeding 10 lakhs and revenue greater than 1 crore rupees had the option to remain independent. In Rajasthan, four states met this criterion: Mewar (Udaipur), Marwar (Jodhpur), Jaipur, and Bikaner.
Legal Framework for Accession
- The British Government’s supremacy over the princely states was abolished under Section 8 of the Indian Independence Act, 1947. This legal provision nullified all treaties and agreements between the British Crown and princely rulers, thus paving the way for the princely states’ accession to either India or Pakistan.
Challenges in the Merger of Princely States
- Communal Dispute: The communal tensions between different religious communities posed a challenge during the integration process, as the rulers of princely states often considered the communal makeup of their populations while deciding on accession.
- Geopolitical Concerns: The location of Jodhpur, Bikaner, and Jaisalmer along the western frontier added complexity to the integration. The strategic importance of these states raised concerns about border security in the newly independent nation.
- Personal Ambitions of Rulers: Many princely rulers were reluctant to give up their autonomy and privileges, fearing the loss of their historical status and wealth. They sought to maintain their power even as the broader political scenario changed.
- Mewar’s Reluctance: Maharana Bhupal Singh of Mewar, in particular, was hesitant to merge with the Rajasthan Union. Mewar’s illustrious history as a seat of Rajput pride and resistance made it difficult for the Maharana to accept the idea of merging into a larger federation.
FIRST PHASE: FORMATION OF MATSYA SANGHA
Formation and Naming
- The first phase of Rajasthan’s integration was marked by the formation of the Matsya Sangha, a political union created to unify the princely states of Bharatpur, Alwar, Dhaulpur, and Karauli.
- The name “Matsya Sangha” was proposed by K.M. Munshi, an influential Indian statesman involved in the integration process.
Princely States Involved
- The Matsya Sangha comprised the following princely states:
- Bharatpur
- Alwar
- Dhaulpur
- Karauli
Capital and Inauguration
- The capital of the Matsya Sangha was established in Alwar.
- The inauguration of this union took place on March 18, 1948, and the ceremony was held in Bharatpur. The event was officiated by V. Gadgil, a prominent political figure of that time.
Leadership Structure
- Rajpramukh (Head of State): Udaybhan Singh was appointed as the Rajpramukh, serving as the ceremonial head of the Matsya Sangha.
- Uprajpramukh (Deputy Head of State): Ganeshpal took on the role of the Uprajpramukh.
- Prime Minister: Shobharam Kumawat served as the Prime Minister, responsible for the administration and governance of the Matsya Sangha.
- Deputy Prime Minister: Jugalkishore Chaturvedi was appointed as the Deputy Prime Minister, supporting the Prime Minister in governance.
- Other Key Ministers: The administrative cabinet also included Gopilal Yadav, Dr. Mangal Singh, Master Bholanath, and Chiranjilal Sharma, who managed various governmental functions.
Economic Overview
- The total income of the Matsya Sangha was 1.84 crore rupees, which contributed to the union’s economic stability during its early phase.
- The combined population of the union was 18,37,994 people, with each constituent state contributing the following:
- Alwar: 5,20,000
- Bharatpur: 5,02,000
- Dhaulpur: 2,64,000
- Karauli: 1,05,000
SECOND STAGE: FORMATION OF THE RAJASTHAN UNION (EAST RAJASTHAN)
Overview of the Rajasthan Union
- The second phase of Rajasthan’s integration led to the formation of the Rajasthan Union, also referred to as East Rajasthan, on March 25, 1948. This union brought together several princely states in the eastern region of present-day Rajasthan.
- The inauguration ceremony was conducted in Kota and presided over by V. Gadgil, who played a pivotal role in the political restructuring of the region.
Princely States Involved
- The Rajasthan Union comprised the following princely states:
- Kota
- Bundi
- Jhalawar
- Dungarpur
- Banswara
- Pratapgarh
- Tonk
- Kishangarh
- Shahpura
- Kushalgarh
Leadership Structure
- Rajpramukh (Head of State): Maharao Bhim Singh of Kota served as the Rajpramukh, the ceremonial head of the Rajasthan Union.
- Senior Uprajpramukh (Deputy Head of State): Bahadur Singh of Bundi held the position of Senior Uprajpramukh.
- Junior Uprajpramukh (Deputy Head of State): Laxman Singh of Dungarpur was appointed as the Junior Uprajpramukh.
- Prime Minister: The administrative responsibilities were handled by Gokullal Asawa from Shahpura.
- Capital: The union’s capital was established in Kota, making it the central administrative hub.
Geographical and Demographic Overview
- Area: The Rajasthan Union spanned an area of 16,807 square miles, making it one of the larger integrations during the formation phases of Rajasthan.
- Population: The union had a total population of 23,34,220 individuals, providing a diverse demographic base for the new administrative setup.
- Income: The combined income of the Rajasthan Union was 1 crore 90 lakh rupees, which contributed to the economic stability of the newly formed entity.
Privy Purse Agreements
As part of the integration process, the rulers of the princely states were granted a Privy Purse, an allowance provided to them for relinquishing their ruling powers and integrating into the Indian Union. The allowances varied based on the status and revenue of their respective states:
- Chandraveer Singh (Banswara): ₹1,26,000
- Bahadur Singh (Bundi): ₹2,81,000
- Laxman Singh (Dungarpur): ₹1,98,000
- Harishchandra Singh (Jhalawar): ₹1,36,000
- Sumer Singh (Kishangarh): ₹1,36,000
- Bhim Singh (Kota): ₹7,00,000
- Ambika Pratap Singh (Pratapgarh): ₹1,02,000
- Sudarshan Dev (Shahpura): ₹90,000
- Nawab Azjijoudaula (Tonk): ₹2,78,000
- Harendra Kumar Singh (Kushalgarh): Not specified
- Vanshpradeep Singh (Lava): Not specified
Notable Remarks
- During the signing of the Covenant Letter, Maharawal Chandraveer Singh of Banswara expressed his deep reluctance and emotional turmoil about the merger. He famously remarked, “I am signing my death warrant,” highlighting the loss of autonomy and the end of the traditional rule of the princely states.
THIRD STAGE: FORMATION OF THE UNITED STATES OF RAJASTHAN
Overview of the United States of Rajasthan
- The third phase of Rajasthan’s integration was marked by the formation of the United States of Rajasthan, a union that brought together the Union of Rajasthan and Mewar. This phase represented a significant step towards the larger integration of the entire Rajasthan region into a cohesive state.
- The integration took place on April 18, 1948, in Udaipur, and the ceremony was inaugurated by Jawaharlal Nehru, the then Prime Minister of India.
Leadership Structure
- Rajpramukh (Head of State): Maharana Bhupal Singh of Mewar was appointed as the Rajpramukh, reflecting the prominent role of Mewar in the union.
- Senior Uprajpramukh (Deputy Head of State): Bhim Singh of Kota continued in his role as the Senior Uprajpramukh, providing continuity in leadership.
- Junior Uprajpramukh (Deputy Head of State): Laxman Singh of Dungarpur was appointed as the Junior Uprajpramukh.
- Capital: The capital of the newly formed United States of Rajasthan was established in Udaipur, the historic seat of Mewar, which served as the administrative and political center.
Maharana Bhupal Singh’s Privy Purse Demands
- Maharana Bhupal Singh negotiated a Privy Purse of ₹20 lakh in total, which was divided as follows:
- ₹10 lakh as a standard privy purse allowance.
- ₹5 lakh as the salary for serving as the Rajpramukh.
- ₹5 lakh as a religious grant, reflecting the importance of maintaining traditional religious institutions in Mewar.
Administrative Leadership
- Prime Minister: Manikyalal Verma served as the Prime Minister of the United States of Rajasthan, responsible for overseeing the administration of the newly unified region.
- Deputy Prime Minister: Gokulalal Asawa continued in his role as the Deputy Prime Minister, supporting Manikyalal Verma in managing the governance of the state.
- Other Ministers: The cabinet included prominent leaders such as:
- Mohanlal Sukhadia
- Prem Narayan Mathur
- Bhurelal Baya
- Bhogilal Pandaya
- Pandit Integral Hari
- Brij Sundar Sharma
Challenges in Cabinet Formation
- One of the key challenges during this phase was a deadlock over the involvement of feudatories in the cabinet. The debate centered around the extent of influence and representation that the former princely rulers and their representatives should have in the new democratic governance structure. This tension highlighted the complexities of integrating traditional feudal elements with modern administrative frameworks.
FOURTH PHASE: FORMATION OF GREATER RAJASTHAN
Overview of Greater Rajasthan
- The fourth phase of Rajasthan’s integration was the formation of Greater Rajasthan, which brought together United Rajasthan with the prominent princely states of Jaipur, Jodhpur, Bikaner, and Jaisalmer. This stage marked a significant expansion of the unified state, further consolidating the territories of Rajasthan.
- The inauguration of Greater Rajasthan took place on March 30, 1949, in Jaipur and was officiated by Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, India’s then Home Minister, who played a pivotal role in integrating the princely states into the Indian Union.
Leadership Structure
- Maharajpramukh (Head of the Union): Maharana Bhupal Singh of Mewar was appointed as the Maharajpramukh, symbolizing his role as the senior-most authority in the newly expanded union.
- Rajpramukh: Sawai Mansingh II of Jaipur served as the Rajpramukh, responsible for the governance of Greater Rajasthan.
- Senior Deputy Chiefs: The role of Senior Deputy Chiefs was shared by Hanwant Singh of Jodhpur and Bhim Singh of Kota.
- Junior Uprajpramukhs: Bahadur Singh of Bundi and Laxman Singh of Dungarpur were appointed as Junior Uprajpramukhs, continuing their roles from previous integration phases.
- Prime Minister: Heera Lal Shastri took on the position of Prime Minister, managing the administrative affairs of Greater Rajasthan.
- Other Ministers: The cabinet of Greater Rajasthan included:
- Siddharaj Dhadha
- Premnarayan Mathur
- Bhurelal Baya
- Phoolchand Bafna
- Narsingh Kurtua
- Rawaraja Hanuvant Singh
- Raghuvar Dayal Goyal
- Vedpal Tyagi
Privy Purse Agreements
In line with previous integration phases, the rulers of the newly integrated princely states were granted Privy Purse allowances as compensation for relinquishing their ruling powers:
- Sawai Mansingh II (Jaipur): ₹18 lakh
- Hanwant Singh (Jodhpur): ₹17 lakh 50 thousand
- Sardul Singh (Bikaner): ₹17 lakh
- Raghunath Singh (Jaisalmer): ₹1 lakh 80 thousand
Formation of the Capital
- To decide on the formation and location of the capital for Greater Rajasthan, the R. Patel Committee was formed. The committee was tasked with evaluating suitable locations for the new administrative center.
- Other Members: The committee included members T.C. Puri and S.P. Sinha, who contributed to the decision-making process.
FIFTH PHASE: FORMATION OF JOINT GREATER RAJASTHAN
Merger of Matsya Union with Greater Rajasthan
- The fifth phase of Rajasthan’s integration occurred on May 15, 1949, with the merger of the Matsya Union into Greater Rajasthan, further consolidating the region into a larger administrative entity.
- This merger was carried out based on the recommendations of the Shankar Rao Dev Committee, which aimed to facilitate a smoother integration process.
- Other Members: The committee included K. Siddhava and Prabhudayal, who played significant roles in shaping the integration strategy.
- Following the merger, Shobharam Kumawat, a leader from the Matsya Union, was included in the Hiralal Shastri cabinet, ensuring representation of the Matsya region in the new administrative setup.
SIXTH PHASE: INTEGRATION OF SIROHI
Division of Sirohi
- The sixth phase involved the division of the princely state of Sirohi. This process focused on integrating parts of Sirohi into different states:
- Abu and Delwara, comprising 89 villages and an area of 304 square miles, were merged into the state of Bombay.
- The remaining parts of Sirohi, including Hathl, the village of Gokul Bhai Bhatt, were integrated into Rajasthan.
- The division and integration of Sirohi were completed on January 26, 1950, coinciding with India’s adoption of its Constitution.
- On this day, the unified region was officially renamed Rajasthan.
- Hiralal Shastri became the first nominated Chief Minister of the newly named state of Rajasthan.
SEVENTH PHASE: FINAL REORGANIZATION OF RAJASTHAN
State Reorganization Commission’s Recommendations
- The seventh and final phase of Rajasthan’s integration was based on the recommendations of the State Reorganization Commission and culminated in further territorial adjustments:
- Abu and Delwara, previously part of Bombay State, were re-integrated into Rajasthan.
- The Ajmer-Merwara union territory, which had its own 30-member Dhara Sabha (Legislative Assembly) and was led by Haribhau Upadhyay as its Chief Minister, was merged into Rajasthan.
- Sunel Tappa, a region previously part of Madhya Pradesh, was merged into Rajasthan.
- Sironj, originally part of Rajasthan, was transferred to Madhya Pradesh.
- With these adjustments, the reorganization of Rajasthan was completed on November 1, 1956, marking the end of the integration process.
Constitutional Changes
- The 7th Constitutional Amendment of 1956 abolished the post of Rajpramukh, removing the ceremonial heads of the merged princely states.
- Sardar Gurmukh Nihal Singh became the first Governor of the newly reorganized state of Rajasthan.
- Later, the 26th Constitutional Amendment of 1971 put an end to the Privy Purse payments, effectively ending the allowances granted to former rulers of princely states.
Ajmer and Capital Disputes
- Following the merger, Ajmer was designated as the 26th district of Rajasthan, further solidifying the state’s territorial unity.
- To resolve the disputes over the capital of Rajasthan, the P. Satyanarayan Rao Committee was formed.
- Other Members: The committee included B.C. K. Guha and V. Vishwanathan.
- The committee’s decision was to retain Jaipur as the capital, while Ajmer was designated as the location for the Revenue Board.
Merger of Abu-Delwara
- The Muni Jinvijay Suri Committee was established to oversee the merger of Abu-Delwara into Rajasthan.
- The committee included historian Dashrath Sharma, who contributed to the merger process.
Additional Developments
On July 19, 1948, before the final phases of reorganization, the Lava locality was merged into the princely state of Jaipur, contributing to the earlier stages of regional integration.