Swarajists, No-Changers, Simon Commission (1927–29)

Split post-NCM: C.R. Das and Motilal Nehru form Swaraj Party
No-Changers: Gandhians focus on constructive work
Simon Commission (1927): all-white, nationwide boycott
Lala Lajpat Rai dies in protest
Nehru Report (1928): dominion status, fundamental rights

Introduction

Swarajists, No-Changers, Simon Commission (1927–29)

In the early 20th century, the Indian independence movement was marked by diverse strategies and factions. Two prominent groups within the Indian National Congress were the Swarajists and the No-Changers. The Swarajists, led by C.R. Das and Motilal Nehru, advocated for participating in British legislative councils to push for self-rule from within the system. In contrast, the No-Changers, led by Mahatma Gandhi, focused on constructive work and non-cooperation, emphasizing social and economic reforms.

The Simon Commission, appointed in 1927, was a significant event that further polarized these groups. This all-British commission, tasked with reviewing India’s constitutional structure, faced widespread boycotts and protests. The death of Lala Lajpat Rai during a protest against the commission in 1928 intensified anti-British sentiment. In response to the Simon Commission, the Nehru Report of 1928 proposed dominion status for India, along with fundamental rights and constitutional reforms, though it faced criticism for not demanding complete independence.

These events and movements were pivotal in the struggle for Indian independence, shaping the political and social landscape of the time.

Split post-NCM: C.R. Das and Motilal Nehru form Swaraj Party

Background

Non-Cooperation Movement (NCM):

Initiation: Launched by Mahatma Gandhi in 1920.
Objectives: To protest against the Rowlatt Act and to demand Swaraj (self-rule).
Methods: Non-violent resistance, boycott of British institutions, and civil disobedience.
End: The movement was called off in 1922 following the Chauri Chauri incident, where a violent clash led to the death of several police officers.

Post-NCM Discontent

Disillusionment:

Many leaders and activists were disillusioned with the abrupt end of the NCM.
There was a sense of frustration and a need for a new strategy to continue the struggle for independence.

Debate within the Congress:

Some leaders, including Gandhi, advocated for a return to non-violent non-cooperation.
Others, like C.R. Das and Motilal Nehru, believed in a different approach.
Formation of the Swaraj Party

Leaders:

C.R. Das (Chittaranjan Das):

Prominent lawyer and nationalist.
Known for his oratory skills and political acumen.

Motilal Nehru:

Respected lawyer and political leader.
Father of Jawaharlal Nehru.
Key figure in the Indian National Congress.

Decision to Form the Party:

1922-1923: C.R. Das and Motilal Nehru, along with other leaders like Vithalbhai Patel, decided to form the Swaraj Party.
Official Formation: The party was officially established in 1923.

Objectives of the Swaraj Party

Entry into Legislative Councils:

To contest elections and gain seats in the legislative councils.
To use these positions to voice the demands of the Indian people.

Constructive Work:

To engage in constructive work and legislative reforms.
To highlight the limitations and injustices of British governance.

Political Awareness:

To raise public awareness about the need for self-rule.
To maintain the momentum of the independence movement.

Strategic Approach

Constructive Work:

Focus on practical and legislative reforms that could benefit the Indian people.
Work on issues such as education, health, and economic development.

Inside the Councils:

Use their positions to obstruct British policies and push for reforms.
Highlight the inefficiencies and injustices of British rule through debates and legislative actions.

Public Engagement:

Organize public meetings and campaigns to keep the spirit of the independence movement alive.
Engage with the masses to build support for their legislative efforts.

Key Events and Actions

Elections:

The Swaraj Party contested the 1923 elections to the Central Legislative Assembly and other provincial councils.
They won a significant number of seats, giving them a platform to voice their demands.
Legislative Reforms:
Introduced and supported several legislative reforms that benefited the Indian people.
Focused on issues such as land revenue, labor rights, and education.

Obstruction Tactics:

Used obstruction tactics to delay and disrupt the passage of British laws that were detrimental to Indian interests.
Highlighted the need for greater Indian participation in governance.
Impact and Achievements

Legislative Reforms:

Successfully introduced and passed several laws that improved the lives of the Indian people.
Highlighted the need for more comprehensive reforms and greater autonomy.

Political Awareness:

Kept the independence movement alive and maintained public interest in political issues.
Built a strong base of support among the masses.

Challenges to British Rule:

Challenged British policies and highlighted the injustices of colonial rule.
Provided a platform for Indian leaders to voice their demands and concerns

Legacy

Influence on Future Movements:

The strategies and tactics employed by the Swaraj Party influenced future political movements and leaders.
Provided a model for engaging with the British system while maintaining the goal of independence.

Transition to Independence:

The party’s efforts contributed to the gradual shift towards greater Indian participation in governance.
Set the stage for eventual independence by building a strong political foundation.

No-Changers: Gandhians focus on constructive work

Formation of the No-Changers

Leaders:

Mahatma Gandhi: The primary leader and advocate of the No-Changers.
Gandhians: Followers of Gandhi who supported his philosophy and methods.

Decision to Continue Non-Cooperation:

1922-1923: Gandhi and his followers decided to continue the strategy of non-cooperation but with a focus on constructive work.
Official Stance: The No-Changers officially opposed entering the legislative councils and instead emphasized building a strong foundation for self-rule through grassroots efforts.

Objectives of the No-Changers

Constructive Work:

To focus on building and strengthening Indian institutions and society.
To promote self-reliance and self-sufficiency among the Indian people.

Non-Violent Resistance:

To continue the practice of non-violent resistance and civil disobedience.
To maintain the moral high ground and avoid any form of violence.

Strategic Approach

Grassroots Development:

Village Reconstruction: Emphasis on improving the lives of people in rural areas through village reconstruction programs.
Economic Self-Reliance: Promotion of khadi (hand-spun and hand-woven cloth) and other indigenous industries to reduce dependence on British goods.

Social Reforms:

Untouchability: Campaigns against untouchability and other social evils.
Women’s Rights: Advocacy for women’s rights and empowerment.

Education

National Education: Establishment of national schools and colleges to promote Indian values and culture.
Literacy Programs: Initiatives to improve literacy rates among the masses.

Political Awareness:

Public Meetings: Organizing public meetings and rallies to keep the spirit of the independence movement alive.
Publications: Using newspapers and other publications to spread the message of non-cooperation and constructive work.

Key Events and Actions

Khadi Movement:

Promotion of Khadi: Gandhi and the No-Changers actively promoted the use of khadi as a symbol of self-reliance and resistance.
Spinning Wheels: Distribution of spinning wheels (charkhas) to encourage the production of khadi.

Village Tours:

Gandhi’s Tours: Gandhi undertook extensive tours of villages to understand the problems faced by the rural population and to promote constructive work.
Community Engagement: Engaging with local communities to implement village reconstruction programs.

Social Campaigns:

Harijan Movement: Campaigns to uplift the lower castes and eliminate untouchability.
Women’s Empowerment: Initiatives to involve women in the independence movement and to promote their rights.

Educational Initiatives:

National Schools: Establishment of national schools and colleges to provide education that was free from British influence.
Literacy Drives: Organizing literacy drives to educate the masses.

Impact and Achievements

Grassroots Mobilization:

Successfully mobilized the rural population and built a strong base of support for the independence movement.
Improved the lives of people in villages through various reconstruction programs.

Economic Independence:

Reduced dependence on British goods through the promotion of khadi and other indigenous industries.
Fostered a sense of economic self-reliance among the Indian people.

Social Reforms:

Made significant progress in social reforms, particularly in the areas of untouchability and women’s rights.
Raised awareness about social issues and encouraged a more inclusive society.
Political Awareness:
Kept the independence movement alive and maintained public interest in political issues.
Built a strong foundation for future political movements and leaders.

Legacy

Influence on Future Movements:

The strategies and tactics employed by the No-Changers influenced future political movements and leaders.
Provided a model for grassroots mobilization and social reform.
Transition to Independence:
The No-Changers’ efforts contributed to the gradual transition towards Indian independence by building a strong and self-reliant society.
Laid the groundwork for the eventual success of the independence movement.

Simon Commission (1927): all-white, nationwide boycott

Formation of the Simon Commission

Appointment:

In 1927, the British government, under the leadership of Secretary of State for India, William Wedgwood Benn, appointed the Simon Commission to review the working of the Government of India Act 1919 and to suggest further reforms.

Composition:

The commission was entirely composed of British members, with no Indian representation. This was a deliberate decision by the British government, which aimed to maintain control over the reform process.
The seven-member commission was headed by Sir John Simon, a British lawyer and politician.

Nationwide Boycott

Reasons for Boycott:

Lack of Indian Representation: The all-white composition of the commission was a major point of contention. Indian leaders and the public felt that any constitutional reforms affecting India should be decided by Indians themselves, not by an external body.
Disregard for Indian Opinions: The Indian political leaders and the public perceived the commission as a colonial imposition and a disregard for their opinions and demands.
Demand for Self-Rule: There was a strong sentiment that the British government was not serious about granting self-rule to India and was merely using the commission to delay or dilute the process.

Leaders of the Boycott:

Indian National Congress: The Congress was the primary organizer of the boycott. It passed a resolution at its Madras session in December 1927, calling for a complete boycott of the Simon Commission.
Jawaharlal Nehru: Played a significant role in mobilizing public support for the boycott. He traveled extensively, giving speeches and organizing protests.
Lala Lajpat Rai: Another prominent leader who actively participated in the boycott and was a key figure in the protests. His death in 1928 further intensified the movement.
Other Political Organizations: Various other political organizations, including the Muslim League, the Hindu Mahasabha, and the All India Trade Union Congress, also supported the boycott.

Key Events and Actions

Initial Protests:

1927: The Indian National Congress and other political organizations called for a boycott of the Simon Commission.
Public Meetings: Leaders organized public meetings and rallies to spread awareness about the boycott and to gather support. These meetings often turned into large demonstrations.
Resolutions: Resolutions were passed in various cities and towns, condemning the commission and calling for its immediate withdrawal.

Black Flag Demonstrations:

Symbolism: Black flags were used as a symbol of protest and mourning. They represented the grief and anger of the Indian people over the commission’s composition and the British government’s lack of respect for Indian aspirations.
Nationwide Protests: Black flag demonstrations were held in major cities and towns across India, with slogans like “Simon Go Back” and “Go Back Simon.” These demonstrations were often peaceful but sometimes met with violent responses from the British authorities.
Key Cities: Notable protests took place in Calcutta, Madras, Bombay, and Lahore.

Violent Clashes:

Lala Lajpat Rai Incident: On November 30, 1928, Lala Lajpat Rai led a peaceful protest in Lahore against the Simon Commission. The police responded with force, using lathis (batons) to disperse the crowd. Lala Lajpat Rai was severely injured and died a few days later on November 17, 1928.
Public Outrage: His death sparked widespread outrage and further intensified the boycott movement. It became a rallying point for the Indian people, and his funeral was attended by thousands.
Bhagat Singh and Comrades: In response to Lala Lajpat Rai’s death, Bhagat Singh and his comrades attacked the police officer responsible, J.P. Saunders, in December 1928. This act of retaliation further galvanized the movement and made Bhagat Singh a national hero.

Legislative Boycott:

Elections: The Indian National Congress and other organizations boycotted the elections to the legislative councils that were to be held in 1928. This meant that the councils would lack significant Indian representation, undermining the commission’s legitimacy.
Councils: Indian members who were already in the councils resigned in protest. This included prominent leaders like Motilal Nehru and C.R. Das, who had previously been involved in the Swaraj Party.

Impact and Achievements

Political Unity:

The boycott of the Simon Commission brought together various political factions and leaders, fostering a sense of unity and common purpose. It demonstrated the strength of the Indian national movement and the widespread dissatisfaction with British rule.

Public Awareness:

The movement raised public awareness about the need for Indian representation in constitutional matters. It educated the masses about the importance of self-rule and the inadequacies of the British reforms.

International Attention:

The widespread boycott and the death of Lala Lajpat Rai drew international attention to the Indian struggle for independence. It highlighted the repressive nature of British rule and the legitimate demands of the Indian people.

Rejection of the Commission’s Report:

The Simon Commission’s report, published in 1930, was widely rejected by Indian political leaders and the public. The report’s recommendations were seen as inadequate and not reflective of Indian aspirations.
The rejection of the report led to the Round Table Conferences, which were a series of meetings between Indian leaders and the British government to discuss constitutional reforms.

Legacy

Influence on Future Movements:

The boycott of the Simon Commission set a precedent for future non-cooperation and civil disobedience movements. It demonstrated the power of mass mobilization and the importance of Indian representation in constitutional matters.
The movement inspired other leaders and organizations to adopt similar strategies of peaceful protest and non-cooperation.

Transition to Independence:

The movement contributed to the growing demand for self-rule and eventually led to the Round Table Conferences and the Government of India Act 1935.
It laid the groundwork for the eventual achievement of independence in 1947 by highlighting the need for a more inclusive and representative constitutional process.

Lala Lajpat Rai dies in protest

Key Events Leading to Lala Lajpat Rai’s Death

Arrival of the Simon Commission:

January 1928: The Simon Commission arrived in India, and protests began immediately in various cities.
Public Demonstrations: Black flag demonstrations were held with slogans like “Simon Go Back” and “Go Back Simon.”

Lahore Protest:

November 30, 1928: Lala Lajpat Rai led a peaceful protest in Lahore against the Simon Commission.
Purpose: The protest aimed to show the Indian people’s dissatisfaction with the all-white commission and to demand its withdrawal.

Police Brutality:

Lathi Charge: The police, under the command of Superintendent of Police James A. Scott, responded with force to disperse the crowd. They conducted a lathi charge (a violent dispersal using batons).
Injury to Lala Lajpat Rai: During the lathi charge, Lala Lajpat Rai was severely injured. He was hit on the chest and suffered internal injuries.

Aftermath of the Protest:

Public Outrage: The news of Lala Lajpat Rai’s injury spread quickly, leading to widespread public outrage and further intensifying the boycott movement.
Medical Condition: Despite the injuries, Lala Lajpat Rai continued to participate in the movement, giving speeches and organizing further protests.

Death of Lala Lajpat Rai:

November 17, 1928: Lala Lajpat Rai died from the injuries sustained during the lathi charge. His death was a significant blow to the Indian national movement but also a powerful catalyst for further resistance.
Funeral and Tributes: His funeral was attended by thousands, and he was mourned across the country. His death became a symbol of the sacrifices made in the struggle for independence.

Impact of Lala Lajpat Rai’s Death

Intensification of the Boycott:

The death of Lala Lajpat Rai further galvanized the Indian people, leading to more widespread and intense protests against the Simon Commission.

Political Unity:

It brought together various political factions and leaders, fostering a sense of unity and common purpose in the struggle against British rule.

International Attention:

The death of Lala Lajpat Rai drew international attention to the Indian struggle for independence, highlighting the repressive nature of British rule and the legitimate demands of the Indian people.

Retaliatory Actions:

Bhagat Singh and Comrades: In response to Lala Lajpat Rai’s death, Bhagat Singh and his comrades, including Sukhdev and Rajguru, attacked the police officer responsible, J.P. Saunders, in December 1928. This act of retaliation further intensified the movement and made Bhagat Singh a national hero.

Legacy

Symbol of Resistance:

Lala Lajpat Rai’s death became a symbol of resistance and sacrifice in the Indian independence movement. It inspired many to join the struggle and continue the fight for self-rule.

Influence on Future Movements:

The events surrounding his death set a precedent for future non-cooperation and civil disobedience movements. It demonstrated the power of mass mobilization and the importance of Indian representation in constitutional matters.

Transition to Independence:

The movement contributed to the growing demand for self-rule and eventually led to the Round Table Conferences and the Government of India Act 1935.
It laid the groundwork for the eventual achievement of independence in 1947 by highlighting the need for a more inclusive and representative constitutional process.

Nehru Report (1928): dominion status, fundamental rights

Formation of the Nehru Report

All Parties Conference:

The All Parties Conference was a significant effort to bring together various political factions and leaders to discuss and draft a constitution for India.
The conference appointed a committee, known as the Nehru Committee, to prepare a report on constitutional reforms. The committee was chaired by Motilal Nehru, the father of Jawaharlal Nehru.

Committee Members:

The committee included prominent leaders from different political backgrounds, such as Tej Bahadur Sapru, M.R. Jayakar, and Subhas Chandra Bose. This diversity was intended to ensure a broad consensus on the proposed reforms.

Key Aspects of the Nehru Report

Dominion Status:

Proposal: The Nehru Report proposed that India should be granted dominion status within the British Empire. Dominion status would mean that India would have a significant degree of self-governance while still maintaining ties with the British Crown.
Rationale: The proposal for dominion status was seen as a practical and achievable step towards full independence. It was a compromise that aimed to balance the immediate demands for self-rule with the realities of the political situation at the time.
Reception: While some leaders, including Motilal Nehru, believed that dominion status was a necessary step, others, such as Subhas Chandra Bose and Jawaharlal Nehru, were more critical. They felt that dominion status was insufficient and that India should aim for complete independence

Fundamental Rights:

Inclusion: The Nehru Report included a detailed section on fundamental rights, which was a significant and progressive aspect of the document.

Rights Listed:

Right to Equality: The report emphasized the right to equality before the law, regardless of religion, race, caste, or sex.
Right to Freedom: It included the right to freedom of speech, assembly, and association.
Right to Property: The right to property was also recognized.
Right to Education: The report proposed the right to education, including the right to receive education in one’s mother tongue.
Right to Religion: It guaranteed the right to freedom of religion and the protection of religious minorities.
Right to Work and Welfare: The report included provisions for the right to work and social welfare, reflecting a concern for the economic and social well-being of the Indian people.

Rationale: The inclusion of fundamental rights was intended to ensure that the new constitutional framework would protect the basic liberties and rights of all Indians, fostering a more inclusive and democratic society.

Reception: The section on fundamental rights was generally well-received and was seen as a significant step towards a more equitable and just society. However, some leaders, particularly from the Muslim League, had reservations about the report’s provisions for religious minorities and the structure of the government.

Reactions and Criticisms

Congress Party:

Mixed Reactions: The Indian National Congress had mixed reactions to the Nehru Report. While some leaders supported the proposal for dominion status and the inclusion of fundamental rights, others, including Jawaharlal Nehru and Subhas Chandra Bose, felt that the report did not go far enough.
Young Leaders: Young leaders within the Congress, such as Jawaharlal Nehru, advocated for complete independence rather than dominion status. They believed that dominion status would still leave India under British control and would not fully address the aspirations of the Indian people.

Muslim League:

Reservations: The Muslim League, led by Muhammad Ali Jinnah, had significant reservations about the Nehru Report. They felt that the report did not adequately address the concerns of religious minorities, particularly Muslims.
Fourteen Points: In response to the Nehru Report, Jinnah presented his “Fourteen Points,” which outlined the Muslim League’s demands for constitutional reforms. These points included provisions for a federal system, representation for religious minorities, and the protection of Muslim rights.

Other Political Groups:

Support and Criticism: Various other political groups and leaders had their own reactions to the Nehru Report. Some supported it, while others criticized it for not being radical enough or for not addressing specific issues.

Impact and Achievements

Political Debate:

The Nehru Report sparked a significant political debate in India. It brought the issue of constitutional reforms to the forefront and forced the British government to take notice of the Indian demands.

Unity and Division:

While the report aimed to foster unity among Indian political leaders, it also highlighted the divisions within the national movement. The debate over dominion status versus complete independence and the concerns of religious minorities led to further discussions and negotiations.

Foundation for Future Reforms:

The Nehru Report laid the foundation for future constitutional reforms and discussions. It influenced the Round Table Conferences and the subsequent Government of India Act 1935.

International Attention:

The report and the debates surrounding it drew international attention to the Indian struggle for self-rule, highlighting the need for a more inclusive and representative constitutional process.

Legacy

Progressive Vision:

The Nehru Report is remembered for its progressive vision, particularly the inclusion of fundamental rights. It set a precedent for the protection of basic liberties and the promotion of social justice in future constitutions.

Influence on the Indian Constitution:

Many of the fundamental rights proposed in the Nehru Report were later incorporated into the Indian Constitution, which was adopted in 1950.

Continued Struggle:

The report and the debates it generated continued to fuel the Indian struggle for independence. It demonstrated the growing sophistication and maturity of the Indian national movement in its approach to constitutional reforms and self-governance.

Question:1

Which of the following statements about the Swarajists and No-Changers in the Indian National Congress is correct?

The Swarajists were led by C.R. Das and Motilal Nehru.

The No-Changers were led by Mahatma Gandhi and focused on constructive work.

The Swarajists aimed to enter the legislative councils to obstruct the government from within.

The No-Changers opposed any form of participation in British institutions.

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

A) 1 and 2 only

B) 1, 2, and 3 only

C) 2 and 4 only

D) 1, 2, 3, and 4

Answer:

B) 1, 2, and 3 only

Question:2

Which of the following statements about the Simon Commission and Lala Lajpat Rai is correct?

The Simon Commission was boycotted by all major Indian political parties.

Lala Lajpat Rai led a peaceful protest against the Simon Commission in Lahore.

Lala Lajpat Rai’s death in 1928 was a result of injuries sustained during a lathi charge by the police.

The Simon Commission was tasked with drafting a new constitution for India.

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

A) 1, 2, and 3 only

B) 1, 2, and 4 only

C) 2, 3, and 4 only

D) 1, 2, 3, and 4

Answer:

A) 1, 2, and 3 only

Question:3

The Nehru Report of 1928 proposed which of the following for India?

Dominion status within the British Empire

Complete independence from British rule

A federal system with strong central control

Fundamental rights for all citizens

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

A) 1 and 4 only

B) 1, 3, and 4 only

C) 2 and 3 only

D) 1, 2, 3, and 4

Answer:

A) 1 and 4 only

Question:4

The Simon Commission, appointed in 1927, was boycotted by Indian leaders for which of the following reasons?

It was composed entirely of British members.

It was seen as a tool to delay constitutional reforms.

It was perceived as a colonial imposition.

It was tasked with reviewing the economic conditions of India.

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

A) 1 and 2 only

B) 1, 2, and 3 only

C) 2 and 4 only

D) 1, 2, 3, and 4

Answer:

B) 1, 2, and 3 only

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