As an alternative to the partition of India, Gandhiji suggested to Mountbatten that he

The correct answer is Option 2.

In April 1947, during his meetings with Viceroy Lord Mountbatten, Mahatma Gandhi proposed a final, radical effort to avoid the partition of India. He suggested that the Viceroy should dismiss the existing Executive Council and invite Mohammad Ali Jinnah to form a central interim government.

Gandhiji’s rationale was that if Jinnah were given the responsibility of governing a united India, the Muslim League’s fear of "Hindu domination" would subside, potentially neutralizing the demand for Pakistan. Under this plan, Jinnah could appoint a cabinet of his choice, provided the government protected the interests of all citizens.

• Option 1 is incorrect as Gandhiji wanted immediate independence to resolve communal issues.
• Option 3 is incorrect because the specific "last-ditch" proposal was to give Jinnah sole leadership to win his confidence.
• Option 4 is incorrect as Gandhiji, a staunch believer in non-violence and democracy, never advocated for military rule.