Which significant political move by Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi ensured that Assam remained a part of India and not East Pakistan during the Cabinet Mission Plan's proposal in 1946?

The correct answer is Opposing the grouping of Assam with Bengal . Key Points Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi , the first Chief Minister of Assam, played a pivotal role in ensuring that Assam remained a part of India during the turbulent period of the Cabinet Mission Plan's proposal in 1946 . He opposed the British plan to group Assam with Bengal in a single administrative unit. This grouping was seen as a precursor to Assam potentially being included in East Pakistan during Partition. Bordoloi’s opposition was based on the belief that Assam had a distinct cultural identity and should remain independent of Bengal's influence. This move safeguarded Assam’s territorial and cultural integrity . His efforts included lobbying at the national level and engaging with Congress leaders like Jawaharlal Nehru and Vallabhbhai Patel to ensure Assam’s interests were protected. Ultimately, Bordoloi’s firm stance and negotiations resulted in Assam being excluded from the proposed grouping, ensuring its integration into India and avoiding its annexation into East Pakistan. Additional Information Cabinet Mission Plan (1946): The Cabinet Mission Plan was proposed by the British government to discuss and plan the transfer of power to Indian leadership. It suggested a grouping of provinces into three sections, with Assam and Bengal forming Group C. This grouping was opposed by many as it diluted Assam's autonomy. The plan also laid the groundwork for India’s partition, with the creation of Pakistan becoming increasingly likely. Gopinath Bordoloi’s Leadership: As the leader of Assam, Bordoloi championed the cause of Assamese culture and opposed any attempt to merge Assam with Bengal or Pakistan. He mobilized public opinion and worked with both local and national leaders to safeguard Assam’s interests. Assam’s Strategic Importance: Assam, rich in natural resources and with a unique cultural heritage, was considered a vital region in India’s northeastern frontier. Its inclusion in East Pakistan would have significantly altered the political and geographical landscape of the region. Outcome: Due to Bordoloi’s efforts, Assam was kept out of the grouping with Bengal, ensuring its integration into India post-Independence. He was later awarded the Bharat Ratna posthumously in 1999 for his contributions to the nation. Important Points Other Options Analysis: Launching the Quit India Movement in Assam: While the Quit India Movement was significant, it was not directly related to Assam’s exclusion from East Pakistan. Hence, this is incorrect. Signing the Assam Accord: The Assam Accord was signed in 1985, much after Independence, and was unrelated to the events of 1946. Hence, this is incorrect. Rejecting the Instrument of Accession: The Instrument of Accession was related to princely states joining India or Pakistan post-Independence, not the grouping under the Cabinet Mission Plan. Hence, this is incorrect.