How did Direct Action Day affect the independence process?

Correct answer: Communal tension and fear of partition increased

Direct answer: Option A, communal tension and fear of Partition increased. Direct Action Day was called by the Muslim League on 16 August 1946 to press its political demand. The day witnessed serious communal violence, especially in Calcutta. This violence deepened mistrust between communities and made agreement between the Congress and the Muslim League more difficult. It therefore strengthened the background in which Partition became more likely. Option A is correct because it states this immediate political effect. Option B is wrong: the Swadeshi Movement began in 1905 in opposition to the partition of Bengal, not in 1946. Option C is wrong: India became a republic on 26 January 1950, not immediately after Direct Action Day. Option D is wrong: the Indian National Congress was founded in 1885. Memory cue: Direct Action Day means 1946 violence, communal tension and a stronger Partition background.