The Administrative Divisions of Junagadh State in Pre-Partition Pakistan

Introduction

Junagadh State, a princely state in what is now Pakistan, had a complex administrative structure comprising three main divisions before its partition in 1947. This article delves into the detailed composition and history of these divisions, shedding light on the region's historical context and its significance in the partition of British India.

Historical Background of Junagadh State

Junagadh State, founded by Mohammad Sher Khan Babi in 1730, was a progressive and historically significant principality. This section explores the origins, lineage, and governance of the state, and its eventual fate post-partition.

The Foundation and Early History

Junagadh State's roots can be traced back to the early 18th century, when Khudabaksh Khan Babi,...

Administrative Divisions of Junagadh State

Junagadh State was administratively divided into three main regions: Junagadh Division, Mangrol Division, and Bantva Division. This section provides a detailed account of each division, its geographic and administrative characteristics.

Junagadh Division

The Junagadh Division was one of the primary divisions of the state. It included cities like Junagadh City and rural areas totaling 14 taluqs. This region played a crucial role in the economic and cultural aspects of the state, and its administration underwent significant changes post-1947.

Mangrol Division

The Mangrol Division comprised regions such as Mangrol Thana, Kodinar Thana, and Vanthali Thana. This division covered large expanses of land and was known for its agricultural contributions to the state. Its detailed administrative structure is outlined in this section.

Bantva Division

The Bantva Division included areas like Bantva, Thanagadh, and Sutrapada Thana. This division was significant in terms of its governance and economic activities. The local administration and its role in the state are discussed in this subsection.

The Partition of 1947 and the Fate of Junagadh State

The partition of British India in 1947 led to the fall of Junagadh State. This section examines the political and administrative decisions that led to the state's merger with India rather than Pakistan. The intricacies of the plebiscite, the role of the Nawab, and the reactions from both sides are thoroughly analyzed.

Legacies and Aftermath

The post-partition period saw significant changes in the region. The state's administrative divisions underwent transformation, and the early decades were marked by reconstruction and political reintegration. The section provides a comprehensive look at the impact of the partition on the state and its people.

Conclusion

Junagadh State, with its intricate administrative divisions, played a pivotal role in the historical narrative of the partition of British India. This article aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the state's administrative structure and its subsequent fate, offering insights into the region's complex past and its enduring legacy.