The Indian Independence Act, enacted and adopted by the British Parliament, receives royal assent on 18 July 1947. The Indian Independence Act creates two new independent Dominions: India (Hindu) and Pakistan (Muslim), the latter being divided into two territories (West Pakistan and East Pakistan). The provinces which were formerly administered directly by the British are attached to one or other of these two states, depending on whether the majority of the population is Hindu or Muslim. The princely states are free to decide whether they belong to Pakistan or India. Pakistan is created on 14 August 1947. India obtains its independence on 15 August 1947.