Operation Polo

1. When India became free on August 15, 1947, Hyderabad remained independent citing the communal bonhomie, size of the kingdom and its infrastructure.
2. But on September 13, 1948, Indian Army attacked from four frontiers and annexed the princely state.
3. Hyderabad was one of wealthiest and most powerful principality which was ruled by Nizam, Mir Osman Ali Khan, Asaf Jah VII, a Muslim ruler who presided over a largely Hindu population.
4. After the defeat in the police action, Nizam signed an instrument of accession, joining India.
5. The Sunderlal Committee, appointed by Indian prime minister Jawaharlal Nehru, concluded that between 30,000–40,000 people had died in total in the state.