What was it?
- The formula was put forward by C. Rajagopalachari.
- It was a tactical acceptance of Pakistan to gain Muslim League’s cooperation for the Indian independence efforts.
Key Provisions
- The formula advocated for granting India dominion status within the British Commonwealth like other Commonwealth nations such as Canada and Australia.
- The formula highlighted the notion of provincial autonomy, allowing each province in British India to choose whether to join or remain distinct from the proposed dominion.
- The formula proposed a voluntary grouping of provinces based on linguistic, cultural, or geographic affinities.
- Defense and communication would remain under the control of the central authority under the formula.
Oppositions
- Jinnah
- He wanted only Muslims from the North-West and North-East to vote in the referendum, not the total population.
- He was likewise hostile to the concept of a common centre and wanted two nations in full fledged manner.
- Vir Savarkar: The plan was denounced by Hindu leaders led by Vir Savarkar.
- Congress: Opposed the partition of provinces.