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Today in History: Calcutta riots erupt after Muslim League calls Pakistan

8/16/2026

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Summary

Story summary

On 16 August 1946, the All-India Muslim League announced a “Direct Action Day” to demand a separate Muslim state. General strikes quickly erupted into violent communal clashes in Calcutta, killing thousands of Hindus and Muslims, marking the start of the Week of the Long Knives and intensifying the drive toward partition.

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Story summary

On 16 August 1946, the All-India Muslim League announced a “Direct Action Day” to demand a separate Muslim state. General strikes quickly erupted into violent communal clashes in Calcutta, killing thousands of Hindus and Muslims, marking the start of the Week of the Long Knives and intensifying the drive toward partition.