With reference to the British colonial rule in India, consider the following statements:
- Mahatma Gandhi was instrumental in the abolition of the system of ‘indentured labour’.
- In Lord Chelmsford’s ‘War Conference’, Mahatma Gandhi did not support the resolution on recruiting Indians for World War.
- Consequent upon the breaking of Salt Law by Indian people, the Indian National Congress was declared illegal by the colonial rulers.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
Detailed Explanation:
Answer: Option 2 — 1 and 3 only
This question tests knowledge of Mahatma Gandhi's role in various colonial-era issues and British responses to Indian nationalist movements. Statement 2 is incorrect as Gandhi actually supported the recruitment resolution at the War Conference, while statements 1 and 3 accurately reflect historical facts.
✅ Statement 1 – Correct: Mahatma Gandhi actively campaigned against the exploitative system of indentured labour, which was finally abolished in 1920 following his persistent efforts and advocacy for labourers' rights both in South Africa and India.
❌ Statement 2 – Incorrect: At Lord Chelmsford's War Conference in 1918, Gandhi actually supported the British war effort and the resolution on recruiting Indians for World War I, believing that Indian loyalty would earn political concessions and dominion status.
✅ Statement 3 – Correct: Following the Salt Satyagraha launched by Gandhi on March 12, 1930, and the subsequent mass breaking of salt laws, the British government declared the Indian National Congress illegal and arrested thousands of Congress leaders and activists.
📝 Short Notes: Gandhi's Political Movements and British Responses
| Event/Movement | Year | Key Facts |
|---|---|---|
| Indentured Labour System | Abolished 1920 | Gandhi campaigned against this system since South Africa days; system involved bonded labour sent to colonies under exploitative contracts |
| War Conference 1918 | April 1918 | Gandhi supported British war efforts; believed cooperation would lead to Home Rule; faced criticism from nationalists like Tilak |
| Salt Satyagraha | March-April 1930 | Dandi March (March 12-April 6); Gandhi broke salt law at Dandi on April 6; triggered mass civil disobedience nationwide |
| Congress Declared Illegal | 1930-31 | Following Salt Satyagraha; led to arrest of over 60,000 people including Gandhi and Nehru; Congress banned until Gandhi-Irwin Pact 1931 |
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