The correct option is A.
Explanation
Direct Action Day, also known as the 1946 Calcutta Killings, was a day of widespread communal violence between Muslims and Hindus in the city of Calcutta in the Bengal province of British India. It was initiated by the Muslim League to demonstrate the strength of Muslim sentiment for the creation of a separate state of Pakistan.
Statement-wise Analysis:
- Option A (16 Aug 1946): Correct. Following the rejection of the Cabinet Mission Plan's proposals regarding a sovereign Pakistan, Muhammad Ali Jinnah and the Muslim League Council proclaimed August 16, 1946, as 'Direct Action Day' to press their demand for a separate nation.
- Option B (3 Jun 1947): Incorrect. This date refers to the announcement of the 'Mountbatten Plan' (also known as the June 3rd Plan), which outlined the partition of British India into two independent dominions: India and Pakistan.
- Option C (26 Jan 1930): Incorrect. This date marks the first 'Purna Swaraj' (Complete Independence) Day, observed by the Indian National Congress following the Lahore Session of 1929.
- Option D (9 Aug 1942): Incorrect. This date marks the formal commencement of the 'Quit India Movement' (August Kranti), launched by Mahatma Gandhi and the Indian National Congress.
Key Takeaway:
Direct Action Day (August 16, 1946) was the pivotal moment of communal mobilization by the Muslim League that signaled the definitive breakdown of negotiations for a united India under the Cabinet Mission Plan.