Sardar Patel Pg 2

Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Pg 2/2

When Pakistani infiltrators attacked Kashmir, Sardar proposed to withhold Pakistan’s share of cash left behind by British. Gandhiji felt it was morally wrong and went on fast unto death. Sardar, finally caved in to save the life of “Father of Nation”.

There were 565 princely states, some Maharajas and Nawabs wanted to remain independent. However, with great expertise and political foresight he integrated all the princely states into one United India. Sardar Patel dealt firmly and decicively with Junaghad and Hydrabad when these two states tried to join Pakistan or remain independent. Gandhiji was full of praise and this earned him the title of “Iron Man of India”.

Sardar wanted Nehru to take back part of Kasmir by force, which Nehru refused and instead decided to seek help from the United Nations, with aresult that the Kashmir issue remains unresolved to present day. Gradually, the relations between Jawaharlal Nehru and Sardar Patel became uneasy, but on January 30 1948, as per Gandhiji’s wish he agreed to work side by side with Nehru. Sardar was dealt (with) a severe blow when the same day Gandhiji was assassinated.

Sardar Patel's health started deteriorating after Ghandhij’s death, and he suffered massive heart attack. The “Iron Man of India,” who really should be considrered the "Chanakia" of our time, died on 15th December, 1950. His biggest achievement was, he left behind a united India. Sardar Patel was conferred with Bharat Ratna in 1991.

Jai Hind!