Lakshadweep, the smallest union territory in India, has gained attention recently due to prime minister Narendra Modi's visit, during which he shared pictures of the picturesque location on social media. While many appreciated the beauty of lakshadweep, some Maldivian ministers made controversial comments. Following India's expression of displeasure, these ministers were suspended. In response, prominent figures like amitabh bachchan, Akshay Kumar, john Abraham, Sachin Tendulkar, PV Sindhu, and suresh raina encouraged people to explore tourist destinations within India. Amidst these developments, it is interesting to note that, during the time of partition, pakistan had ambitions to take control of Lakshadweep. At that time, Mohammad ali Jinnah sought to merge Muslim-majority princely states with Pakistan. lakshadweep, with a 93% Muslim population, caught the attention of Pakistani leadership.
However, Sardar patel, often referred to as the 'Iron Man' of India, thwarted Pakistan's plan. In his october 2019 'Mann Ki Baat' radio program, PM Modi shared this historical anecdote. He recounted how, immediately after partition in 1947, pakistan set its sights on lakshadweep, dispatching a ship with their flag to the region. Upon learning of this, Sardar patel swiftly acted, directing the Mudaliar brothers from the southern state to rush to lakshadweep along with people from Travancore state.
Ramaswami and Lakshmanaswami Mudaliar reached lakshadweep, hoisted the indian tricolor, and effectively thwarted Pakistan's aspirations, preventing the annexation of the territory. Sardar Patel's decisive actions ensured that lakshadweep remained an integral part of India.