18 February - Mutiny against the British began in the Royal Indian Navy in 1946

 

On February 18, 1946, a historic event known as the Royal Indian Navy Mutiny took place in Bombay (now Mumbai), India. This mutiny marked a significant moment in India's struggle for independence from British rule. The naval ratings, consisting of Indian sailors, led a revolt against the British authorities, demanding better working conditions, equal pay, and the end of racial discrimination within the Royal Indian Navy.

The immediate trigger for the mutiny was the frustration and discontent among Indian sailors who had served in the Royal Indian Navy during World War II. Despite their contributions to the war effort, they faced discrimination and were treated unequally compared to their British counterparts. The sailors were particularly angered by the British decision to reduce their salaries and allowances after the war.

The mutiny began on February 18, 1946, when a group of naval ratings on HMIS Talwar went on strike, and the protests quickly spread to other naval vessels and shore establishments in Bombay, Karachi, Calcutta, and Madras (now Chennai). The revolt gained widespread support from the civilian population and political leaders.

However, the leaders of the Indian National Congress and the Muslim League, who were negotiating with the British for India's independence, were cautious about openly supporting the mutiny. They were concerned that the unrest might jeopardize the delicate political situation and negotiations.

Ultimately, the mutiny was brought under control by the British authorities through a combination of force and negotiations. The leaders of the mutiny were arrested, and some were court-martialed. While the immediate objectives of the mutiny were not fully achieved, it played a crucial role in drawing attention to the grievances of Indian servicemen and contributed to the broader political climate that led to India gaining independence in 1947.