In What Circumstances Were The 1945 General Elections Held In India And What Were Their Results?

In May 1945, the Second World War concluded in the victory of Britain and defeat of Germany. In Britain Labor Party had returned into power under the new elections. New political measures were expected to be taken in the changed circumstances. The Labor Party of England was keen to find out the solution of Indian problems as soon as possible. Therefore as soon as it came into power Lord Wavell visited England with his proposals in regard to the Indian problems to discuss with the Cabinet members. On his return he announced the British policy which recommended the following measures to be taken.

1. The British Government was anxious to do their utmost to assist the Indians in working   out of a new constitutional settlement.
2. The holding of the general elections in the Central and Provincial Assemblies would be arranged in the coming winter. After these elections the political parties would constitute Ministries in the Provinces.
3. A Legislative body would be established with the consultation of the Provincial Assemblies, after the elections.
4. The terms of the future agreement between Free India and Britain would be reconsidered.
5. A Viceroy's Executive Council supported by the main political parties of India would be established.

The announcement of the next elections was a challenge to Muslim League inviting it to prove the truth of its claim that Muslim League was the sole representative organization of the Muslims of India. All political parties were given the opportunity to propagate their points of view before the masses. Therefore all political parties started electioneering campaign with full force.