During British rule, India comprised hundreds of princely states, loosely federated under British sovereignty. These states joined the Commonwealth, retaining autonomy in internal affairs while their foreign relations and defense were under British control, rendering them semi-independent. Together, they occupied nearly half of India's territory and a third of its population. The rulers of these states not only enjoyed absolute power within their domains but also wielded significant influence. After all, the Indian populace had long been accustomed to their governance," explained Imperial Foreign Minister Wahit.
India's colonial status under British rule meant that Germany had never seriously considered it as a potential colony under its dominion, resulting in a lack of familiarity with its intricacies.
"Your Majesty, it appears that these princely rulers are seeking new patrons," remarked Prime Minister Bilo.
Qin Tian nodded slightly. "What are your thoughts? Should we accept their allegiance?"
"Your Majesty, I believe we should welcome their loyalty. India is geographically distant from the Empire, and direct governance would be both challenging and burdensome. Furthermore, influenced by parties such as the Congress, many Indians already aspire to independence. Should the Empire attempt to impose direct rule, we would likely face relentless resistance, undermining our ability to extract benefits from India. Entrusting these native rulers, who are deeply entrenched in their territories, to manage India on our behalf would be far more advantageous. In this arrangement, the Empire could reap rewards without direct involvement," Wahit advised.
"This approach does seem promising. Your Majesty, allowing these rulers to suppress rebellious factions would free the Empire from managing unrest. It would enable us to avoid direct confrontation with the Indian populace," added Field Marshal von Falkenhayn.
"Very well. If everyone agrees, we shall proceed accordingly. We will receive the ruler of Hyderabad in Germany. The Foreign Ministry should initiate discreet contact with him. Depending on the situation, I may meet him personally," Qin Tian declared.
"Yes, Your Majesty," the ministers responded in unison.
Mir Osman Ali Khan, the Nizam of Hyderabad, was elated upon receiving Germany's approval for his visit. Accompanied by only a few aides and facilitated by German forces, he embarked on a secret journey to Germany.
The German Navy's Indian Ocean Fleet ensured his safe passage, assigning a light cruiser to transport him. Within a fortnight, Mir Osman Ali Khan set foot on German soil.
Wahit personally welcomed him at Wilhelmshaven, an honor that overwhelmed the Nizam. Under British rule, while their status was upheld, the princes wielded little real power. They enjoyed wealth and privilege but were politically marginalized, often overlooked by the British.
"Your Excellency, welcome to the German Empire!" Wahit greeted with a warm smile. Although Mir Osman Ali Khan was referred to as a monarch in Hyderabad, Wahit addressed him merely as "Your Excellency."
"Minister, I am deeply grateful to the German Empire for permitting this confidential visit," the Nizam responded.
Following pleasantries, Wahit invited the Nizam aboard a luxury train bound for Berlin, where their discussions took a serious turn.
"Minister, congratulations on your military successes in India," the Nizam said, seemingly indifferent to the mass casualties among Indians during the campaign. To him, these individuals were mere untouchables, their deaths inconsequential.
"Thank you, Your Excellency. We never sought conflict, but the British instigated hostility between our Empire and India, misleading many Indians into resistance. The resulting loss of life is regrettable," Wahit replied diplomatically.
"It is all the fault of the British! They are to blame!" the Nizam seethed.
"Indeed, the British are responsible," Wahit remarked with a knowing smile, recognizing the Nizam's astuteness—a quality Germany valued in its allies.
"Minister, British rule in India was deeply unpopular. Now that Germany has supplanted them, I wholeheartedly welcome your governance. However, we hope the German Empire will preserve India's existing structures," the Nizam stated, clearly voicing the collective interests of the princely states.
"Your Excellency, let me assure you that the German Empire has no intention of altering India's status quo. The interests of the princely states will be safeguarded. However, any aspirations for independence will be firmly opposed," Wahit declared.
Relieved and gratified, the Nizam's face lit up. Germany's assurance of preserving the princes' privileges satisfied him entirely. For these rulers, independence held no allure; maintaining their wealth and influence was paramount.
"Rest assured, the princely states of India staunchly oppose independence," the Nizam affirmed with conviction.
With Germany's promise to uphold their authority, the Nizam felt secure. Independence, after all, was merely a ploy of the impoverished masses, a prospect that threatened the princely states' interests. Maintaining the status quo allowed them to continue their opulent lifestyles.
The Nizam's stance pleased Wahit. The willingness of these rulers to maintain the existing order was ideal for Germany. It meant that Indian aspirations for independence could be effectively thwarted. Furthermore, dividing India would solidify Germany's control, rendering any unified resistance impossible.