New Delhi, August 15, 1947: Addressing the Constituent Assembly, Lord Mountbatten felt confident that India and her lenders would be worthy of her destiny... Lord Mountbatten asked the Assembly to relieve him of the

Governor-Generalship in April next as he felt that India should have one of her own sons at the helm of affairs.

Following is the full text (of the speech):

Mr President and members of the Constituent Assembly, I have a message from His Majesty the King to deliver to you today. This is His Majesty’s message: “On this historic day when India takes her place as a Free and Independent Dominion in the British Commonwealth of Nations, I send you all my greetings and heartfelt wishes.

Freedom loving people everywhere will wish to share in your celebrations, for with this transfer of power by consent comes the fulfilment of a great democratic ideal to which the British and Indian peoples alike are firmly dedicated. It is inspiring to think that all this has been achieved by means of peaceful change.

Heavy responsibilities lie ahead of you, but when I consider the statesmanship you have already shown and the great sacrifices you have already made. I am confident that you will be worthy of your destiny.

I pray that the blessings of the Almighty may rest upon you and that your leaders may continue to be guided with wisdom in the tasks before them. May the blessings of friendship, tolerance and peace inspire you in your relations with the nations of the world. Be assured always of my sympathy in all your efforts to promote the prosperity of your people and the general welfare of mankind.”

... contd.