Rajagopalachari Formula (CR Plan) - 1944: Context, including the formula for Congress-League cooperation; Main Points such as endorsement of independence, plebiscite terms, and objections from Jinnah and Hindu leaders.

The CR Plan was a significant attempt to resolve the constitutional crisis in India during World War II. Formulated by C. Rajagopalachari for Congress-League cooperation, it addressed the Muslim League's demand for Pakistan while aiming to secure a provisional government post-independence. Understanding this plan is crucial for students preparing for modern Indian history and political science exams.

Context: Addressing the Constitutional Crisis in India (1942)

• The CR Plan aimed at bridging the gap between Congress and the Muslim League to ensure a smooth transition towards independence.

  C. Rajagopalachari devised a formula for Congress-League cooperation to manage the ongoing political and constitutional challenges.

  • (i) The formula implicitly acknowledged the Muslim League's demand for Pakistan.
  • (ii) It sought to secure cooperation between the Congress and the League for future governance.

• Main Points of the CR Plan: Key Provisions

  The plan laid down specific terms for post-war governance, plebiscites, and provisional government formation, balancing the interests of Congress and League.

  • (i) Endorsement of Independence: The Muslim League would endorse Congress's demand for independence.
  • (ii) Provisional Government: The League to cooperate with Congress in forming a central provisional government.
  • (iii) Plebiscite Post-War: Population in Muslim-majority areas of North-West and North-East India to decide on forming a separate sovereign state via plebiscite.
  • (iv) Partition Terms: If partition accepted, both sides to jointly safeguard defense, commerce, and communications.
  • (v) Condition: Terms effective only if England transferred full powers to India.

• Objections to the CR Plan: Opposition from Various Groups

  The plan faced criticism from multiple political quarters, including Jinnah, Congress, and Hindu leaders, reflecting the complexities of pre-independence politics.

  • Jinnah’s Demands

    • (i) Wanted Congress to accept the two-nation theory.
    • (ii) Insisted that only Muslims in North-West and North-East India vote in the plebiscite.
    • (iii) Opposed the idea of a common central government.

  • Congress’s Position

    • (i) Willing to cooperate for the independence of the Indian Union.
    • (ii) Not in favor of creating a separate nation.

  • Hindu Leaders’ Response

    • (i) Hindu leaders, including Vir Savarkar, condemned the CR Plan.

• Summary of the CR Plan and Its Significance

  The CR Plan represents a critical attempt to resolve the constitutional crisis in India during World War II. By proposing Congress-League cooperation, conditional plebiscites, and provisional government arrangements, it reflected the political tensions of the era. For students, understanding the plan is crucial for grasping the interplay of Indian nationalist politics and the Muslim League’s demand for Pakistan.