UPSC Preparation - Chapter 12: Era of Extreme Nationalism 1905 to 1909

1. Government Strategy in Swadeshi and Boycott Movement

• Position of Moderates:

  • The British government never really liked the moderates.
  • Moderates were not initially hostile against the British government.

• Government Policies:

  • "Carrot and Stick" policy was adopted.
  • Three main approaches:
    • Repression: Mild repression was applied to extremists.
    • Conciliation: Reforms were made to appease the moderates.
    • Suppression: Severely suppressed extremists when they took the law into their own hands.

• Surat Split:

  • The distance between moderates and extremists increased during the Surat Split.

2. Morley-Minto Reforms

• Key Individuals:

  • Secretary of State: John Morley
  • Viceroy: Lord Minto

• Simla Deputation (1906):

  • Muslim delegation led by Aga Khan.
  • Demand: Separate electorate and other rights.

• Gokhale’s Visit to England:

  • Went to meet Morley.

• Key Points:

  • Indians were allowed to participate in various legislative councils.
  • Reforms in the electoral process.
  • Majority of non-official members in the district councils.

3. Separate Electorate for Muslims

• 1909 Act:

  • Provision for separate electorates.
  • Representation according to the Muslim population.

• Economic Qualifications:

  • Income qualifications for Muslim candidates were different from those for Hindus.

• Voting on Budget:

  • Was not possible to vote on the overall budget.

4. Evaluation of Morley-Minto Reforms

• Legitimization of Communalism:

  • Communalism gained legitimacy.

• Impact on National Unity:

  • Promoted divisions between various nationalities.

• Policy for Moderates and Muslims:

  • Not for all Muslim communities, but for some specific classes.

• Responsible Legislature:

  • The legislature was not responsible.

Conclusion

• The Morley-Minto reforms are significant in this chapter.
• Keep studying!