2013 Q. 39 Set A
Modern History
National Movement

The people of India agitated against the arrival of Simon Commission because

Smart Elimination

(a) Too narrow and vague - Indians did want review and reforms — they had been demanding further self-governance
(b) Dyarchy was unpopular; abolishing it would be a positive reform → Why agitate against that?
(d) British were not planning partition in 1927 — the idea emerges only after 1930s–40s. Thus, historically out of place.

Emotional Logic: Why would a country be angry at a Commission? Because they were excluded. Option C (""No Indian member"") is the most insulting and likely cause of agitation.

Potential Trap

Overthinking about the recommendations (Diarchy etc.). The immediate cause of anger was the composition.

Answer Key & Explanation

Answer: C

The correct answer is Option C.

Explanation:

  • The Simon Commission (Indian Statutory Commission) was appointed in 1927 to review the working of the Government of India Act 1919.
  • The Agitation: It was boycotted by all Indian political parties (Congress, League) primarily because it was an All-White Commission.
  • There was no Indian member in the 7-member commission.
  • This was seen as an insult to the self-respect of Indians and a denial of their right to participate in deciding their own constitution.

Value Addition

  • Slogan: "Simon Go Back".
  • Lala Lajpat Rai: Died due to lathi blows received during the protest in Lahore.

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Difficulty Assessment
easy

Foundational question based on core concepts.

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3 / 10
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