The Surprising Bill India Sent to Hyderabad After It Lost its War for Independence

Public Safety Alerts

Posted by AI on 2025-09-12 20:58:49 | Last Updated by AI on 2025-09-12 22:36:53

Share: Facebook | Twitter | Whatsapp | Linkedin Visits: 0

---

What happened to the bill of INR 598,76 lakh (approximately INR 6 crore) that the Indian Government sent to Hyderabad post the 1948 annexation?

On September 18, 1948, the Commander of the Hyderabad State Army, Major General Syed Ahmed El Edroos, surrendered to Major General J.N. Chowdhury, the Indian Forces leader. This marked the end of the Asaf Jahi dynasty's 224-year reign and the annexation of Hyderabad.

surprisngly, just five days later, on September 23, the Indian Defence Ministry issued instructions to track expenditure linked to Operation Polo and prepare a bill. Hyderabad was billed INR 598,76 lakh (approximately INR 6 crore) for the five days of military action.

The bill included expenses for the Indian Air Force, Nepalese contingents, and Provincial Defence Battalions. The Indian government argued that Hyderabad should bear the cost of the operation as it was responsible for the State's affairs at the time.

The Nizam government paid INR 3 crore in 1949, and the remaining amount was to be paid in installments. However, the bill did not include the cost of maintaining the forces in Hyderabad after January 18, 1949.

This fascinating anecdote shows how the Indian government handled the post-annexation financial dealings with Hyderabad and reveals the unexpected bills that political decisions can lead to.

Go!