Operation Polo-Integration of Hyderabad into the Indian Union

The 77th anniversary of Operation Polo , observed on 13 September 2025 , commemorates the swift military action that brought Hyderabad State into the Indian Union in 1948.

Background

At independence in 1947, Hyderabad was India’s largest princely state, ruled by Nizam Mir Usman Ali Khan . Despite its Hindu majority, the Nizam sought independence, even exploring ties with Pakistan. A standstill agreement with India in November 1947 only delayed the issue.

Growing Unrest

Inside Hyderabad, discontent rose. The Communist-led peasant revolt challenged feudal exploitation, while the Razakars , a militia backed by the Ittihad-ul-Muslimeen and led by Kasim Razvi , unleashed violence to support the Nizam. This unrest alarmed Indian leaders, particularly Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel .

Military Action

With negotiations failing and Razakar violence escalating, India launched Operation Polo on 13 September 1948 . Led by Major General J.N. Chaudhuri , Indian forces quickly advanced. Within five days, Hyderabad’s army was defeated, and on 17 September , the Nizam surrendered.

Aftermath

The Razakars were banned, and Hyderabad was placed under military administration until 1949. Democratic processes began with elections in 1952, ensuring Hyderabad’s full integration into India.

Significance

Operation Polo ended the Nizam’s bid for independence, prevented potential fragmentation, and reinforced India’s post-independence territorial unity .