Simultaneous partition of India and India's independence from the British rule in 1947 was one of the most traumatic experience faced by the people of Punjab. Lakhs of Hindu Sikhs and Muslims were displaced from their homes and hearths and compelled to migrate to India and newly created Pakistan. These papers reveal the problems faced by the displaced people and the state government officials involved in the settlement and rehabilitation of the Hindu/Sikh refugees as well as controlling and curling the communal riots between the two communities. The contents of these official communications written by lower and higher officials reveal the extremely chaotic conditions prevailing during the partition period. We get a glimpse into the frenzy of communal frenzy and the resultant loss of life and property caused at that time. Some of the revelations about the about of women belonging to both the communities are very disturbing and painful. The whole collection has a historical relevance[edit]
