Wavell Plan's rejection from "summary" of History of the Freedom Movement in India (1857-1947) by S. N. Sen

The Wavell Plan was put forward in 1945 by the Viceroy of India, Lord Wavell, which proposed that Indians should have an equal representation in both Central and Provincial executive councils; however, it was rejected due to certain controversial terms.

Even though the Government adopted practical steps for drafting the plan, a subtle reluctance of British government to surrender power made them reject the plan altogether.

Despite the strong call for the acceptance of the plan, its failure marked yet another phase in long struggle towards the Indian freedom.

This rejection provided a major set back to any further attempts of granting independence to India, as non-compliance on both sides meant there was no room for negotiation.

Nationally, Muslim League disagreed with the plan because Muslim leaders believed that it would impact their demand for separate nation and separate electorates.

With all this opposition from different sides, the proposal ended up being discarded instead of receiving the support it deserved.

To top it off, Sikhs were strongly against this attempt as it contained no guarantee of safeguards or special provision for them.

Congress did not accept thePlan as it gave no assurance of a transfer of power and allowed British rulers to keep control over defence, foreign affairs, revenue, and communications.

Lastly, it reaffirmed the notion that any chance at devolving authority lied solely within the hands of the British Raj and any opinion based decisions by the Indians would ultimately be futile.

Furthermore, the allocation of Muslim representativesin various Ministerial posts also came into conflict with Congress members.