Operation Polo, the police action that led to the annexation of the erstwhile Hyderabad State into the Indian Union, remains a contentious and painful chapter in the history of the region. The operation, which took place from September 13 to 17, 1948, resulted in widespread violence, massacres, and atrocities against Muslims. Despite the passage of 77 years, the wounds of Operation Polo still linger, and the event continues to be a subject of debate and discussion.
The Violence and Atrocities
The violence during Operation Polo was brutal and widespread. Thousands of Muslims were killed, and many more were displaced. Women and children were raped and killed, and properties were looted and destroyed. The Sundarlal Committee, which investigated the massacres, estimated that between 26,000 to 40,000 people were killed. The committee’s report also highlighted the atrocities committed against Muslims, including arson, rape, loot, murder, and abduction.
The Politics of Operation Polo
The politics surrounding Operation Polo is complex and multifaceted. While some view it as a liberation of Hyderabad from the Nizam’s rule, others see it as a genocide of Muslims. The communist parties observe September 17 as a day of deceit, while the BJP terms it as the liberation of Hyderabad State. The Congress treats it as a transition from tyranny to democracy and has been observing the black day as ‘Praja Paalana Dinotsavam’. However, the fact remains that the violence and atrocities committed during Operation Polo were real, and the wounds still need to be healed.
Healing the Wounds
The question of how to heal the wounds of Operation Polo is a complex one. It requires a nuanced understanding of the historical context and a willingness to acknowledge the atrocities committed. Paravastu Lokeshwar, a historian and author, believes that acknowledging the genocide of Muslims during Operation Polo is essential to healing the wounds. He also emphasizes the need for political parties to take a stand against the atrocities unleashed on citizens during Operation Polo and to hold the army and police accountable for their actions. By doing so, we can work towards a more just and equitable society, where the rights of all citizens are respected and protected.
