Who is credited with forming the first Azad Hind Fauj?

Concept

A national army in exile may have distinct founding and reorganization phases. Credit for formation belongs to the leader who first organized the force; later command, expansion, or political sponsorship is a separate contribution.

Application

In 1942, Captain Mohan Singh organized the first Indian National Army, also called the Azad Hind Fauj, from Indian prisoners of war in Southeast Asia. Subhas Chandra Bose assumed leadership in 1943 and reorganized and expanded the force.

Contrast

• Captain Mohan Singh led the initial organization of the force in 1942.

• Captain Shah Nawaz Khan served as an INA commander and was later tried in the Red Fort trials.

• Captain P. K. Sahgal served as an INA officer and was later tried in the Red Fort trials.

• Subhas Chandra Bose took command in 1943 and reorganized the INA in its later phase.

Cross-check and result

The dates distinguish the roles: the first formation occurred in 1942, while Bose took command in 1943. Therefore, the credit for forming the first Azad Hind Fauj goes to Captain Mohan Singh.