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Constitutional Development — UPSC Prelims Modern History previous year questions

43 solved previous year questions on Constitutional Development, papers from 1991 to 2014, drawn from UPPCS, State PCS, UPSC CSE Prelims. Each carries the printed answer key and the explanation from the source compilation.

1. #1UPSC CSE Prelims 1999
   "It made its proposals in May. It still wanted a united India. There was to be the Federal Union composed of British provinces." The above quotation is related to
   • ASimon Commission
   • BGandhi-Irwin Pact
   • CCripps Mission
   • DCabinet Mission
   Answer: (A) Simon Commission
   Explanation

   Option a is the correct Raza Khan was appointed as the of Murshidabad by Robert Clive after the The Allahabad Treaty was signed in 1765 East India Company and the Mughal Emperor II. The treaty gave the East India Company the right revenue from Bengal, Bihar and Orissa, Khan was a trusted advisor of Robert Clive and instrumental in helping the British to consolidate in Bengal. Important Tips Treaty of Allahabad: Signed in Allahabad on August 16, 1765. Scripted by I'tisam-ud-Din, a Bengali Muslim scribe and Mughal Empire diplomat. Involved the Mughal Emperor Shah Alam and Robert Clive of the East India Company, Resulted from the British victory over Shah Alam and the Nawabs of Awadh and Bengal in the Battle of Buxar. Impact of the Treaty: Marked the beginning of British political and constitutional involvement in Indian affairs. Initiated British rule in India and established their politic

2. #2UPPCS 1994
   The formula for transfer of sovereignty to India in 1947 was known as
   • ADurand Plan
   • BMorley-Minto Reforms
   • CMountbatten Plan
   • DWavell Plan
   Answer: (C) Mountbatten Plan
   Explanation

   Option c is the correct I is true but Statement is I is correct: The Bethune School, founded in 1849 by John Elliot Drinkwater Bethune, of the earliest institutions established as a result growing movement for women's education in the It played a significant role in promoting girls and women in INDIA Statement is incorrect: The first step in giving to girls in India was not undertaken by 1800. Vidyasagar was born in 1820 and died in 1891, so not have undertaken any step in 1800. Important Tips Ishwar Chandra Vidhyasagar: Among Vidyasagar's social reform works are 'Bidhobabivah' on widows' right to remarry (1855), and 'Bahubivah' on the prohibition of polygamy (1871), and Balyabivah on the flaws of child marriage. As a result of his tireless efforts, the then-Government of India passed the Widow Remarriage Act in 1856. Vidyasagar began working as an 'Assistant Secretary' at the Sanskrit C

3. #3Previous year
   Which of the following Indian leaders attended the First Round Table Conference in London? (44th. (Pre) 2000
   • AMaulana Mohammad Ali
   • BMaulana Abul Kalam Azad
   • CMahatma Gandhi
   • DPt. Jawaharlal Nehru
   Answer: (A) Maulana Mohammad Ali
   Explanation

   Option a is the correct Mohammad Ali was a prominent leader of the Muslim League and a staunch advocate of He attended the First Round Table London as a representative of the Muslim League. National Congress only attended the Table conference out of all the three Round Important Tips Organisations and their representatives in the First Round Table Conference: Muslim League: Muhammad Zafarullah Khan, Muhammad Ali Jinnah, Sir Abdul Halim Ghuznavi, Maulana Mohammad Ali Jauhar, Raja Sher Muhammad Khan of Domeli, Sir Ghulam Hussain Hidayatullah, Aga Khan (leader of British-Indian delegation), Muhammad Shafi, AK Fazlul Huq, Dr. Shafa'at Ahmad Khan. Depressed Classes: Rettamalai Srinivasan, B. R. Ambedkar Sikhs: Sardar Sampuran Singh, Sardar Ujjal Singh Liberals: Tej Bahadur Sapru, V. S. Srinivasa Sastri, J. N. Basu, Chimanlal Harilal Setalvad, C. Y. Chintamani Europeans: T. F. Gavin Jones, Sir

4. #4Previous year
   Who viewed Cripps' proposal as a postdated cheque upon a crashing hank'? (44th. (Pre) 2000
   • AMahatma Gandhi
   • BJawaharlal Nehru
   • CJ.B. Kriplani
   • DJaiprakash Narayan
   Answer: (A) Mahatma Gandhi
   Explanation

   Option a is the correct Cripps' Mission declared that entire India was to be and after the war its constitution was to be an elected body which was to be accepted by the Mahatma Gandhi called Cripps Mission cheque drawn on a failing bank' due to offer of Dominion Status after the war

5. #5State PCS 1996
   On which issue did the Second Round Table Conference fam
   • ACommunal Delegations
   • BGranting Dominion Status
   • CThe date of transfer of ruling power
   • DPostponement of Civil Disobedience Movement
   Answer: (A) Communal Delegations
   Explanation

   Option a is the correct Second Round Table Conference failed to reach on the issue of communal Indian National Congress wanted a system of where all Indians would vote for all of their religion. The Muslim League wanted of separate electorates, where Muslims would Muslim seats and Hindus would vote for Hindu British government tried to mediate between the but they were unable to reach a compromise. ended without any agreement being reached issue of communal representation. Other than the princes were also not too enthusiastic about especially after the possibility of the formation Congress government at the center had receded suspension of the civil disobedience movement

6. #6State PCS 2013
   On whose suggestions were the Indians kept out of the Simon Commission?
   • ALord Reading
   • BLord Chelmsford
   • CSir John Simon
   • DLord Irwin M
   Answer: (D) Lord Irwin M
   Explanation

   Option d is the correct were excluded from the Simon Commission suggestion of Lord Irwin. He argued that no would be able to approach the task of the workings of the Government of 1919, as they would inevitably be biased or self interested. This decision to have an all-British to widespread protests and demands for greater as Indians felt that their perspectives being considered in matters that directly concerned

7. #7Previous year
   Which of the following Act provided for communal representation in British India? [. (Pre) 2019)
   • AIndian Councils Act, 1892
   • BMinto- Morley Reforms, 1909
   • CMontague-Chelmsford Reforms, 1919
   • DGovernment of India Act, 1935
   Answer: (B) Minto- Morley Reforms, 1909
   Explanation

   Option b is the correct largest number of soldiers who participated of 1857 came from Awadh (Oudh). Due more than of people participated Important Tips Nawab Wajid Ali Shah was dethroned and exiled to Calcutta on the plea that the region was being misgoverned. The British government also wrongly assumed that Wajid Ali Shah was an unpopular ruler. On the contrary, he was widely loved. The removal of the Nawab led to the dissolution of the court and its culture. Thus a whole range of people - musicians, dancers, poets, artisans, cooks, retainers, administrative officials and so on - lost their livelihood. In Awadh, more than anywhere else, the revolt became an expression of popular resistance to an alien order. In Awadh where resistance 1857 was intense and long lasting, the fighting was carried out by taluqdars and their peasants. The large majority of the sepoys of the Bengal Army were r

8. #8UPPCS 2012
   Where did the Indian Congress got divided into two wings moderates and extremists?
   • ASurat Session, 1907
   • BLahore Session, 1909
   • CCalcutta Session, 1911
   • DKarachi Session, 1913
   Answer: (A) Surat Session, 1907
   Explanation

   Option a is the correct Indian Councils Act, 1909 (not Government of 1919) is also known as Morley-Minto Reforms of India Act, 1919 is known as Reforms. Government of India Act the Central and Provincial subjects. of India Act 1919 came into force in was the Secretary of State for India and was the Viceroy of India during Government Act 1919. Important Tips The features of Government of India Act, 1919: It relaxed the central control over the provinces by demarcating and separating the central and provincial subjects. It further divided the provincial subjects into two parts transferred and reserved. The transferred subjects were to be administered by the Governor with the aid of Ministers responsible to the legislative council. The reserved subjects, on the other hand, were to be administered by the Governor and his executive council without being responsible to the legislative council.

9. #9Previous year
   Who was responsible for encouraging the local self Govt. in India? [ (Pre) 2010)
   • ALord Mayo
   • BLord Lytton
   • CLord Canning
   • DLord Ripon
   Answer: (B) Lord Lytton
   Explanation

   Option b is the correct Reforms, 1909 (which is the name of Act of 1909) provided for communal British India by accepting the concept of Under this, the Muslim members were to only by Muslim voters. Thus, the Act and Lord Minto came to be known as of Communal Electorate

10. #10UPPCS 1999
    Who presided over the Benaras Session of the Indian National Congress in 1905?
    • ASurendranath Bannerji
    • BFeroz Shah Mehta
    • CGopal Krishna Gokhale
    • DDinshaw Wacha
    Answer: (B) Feroz Shah Mehta
    Explanation

    Option b is the correct 1 is incorrect: The Morley-Minto reforms of named after the Secretary of State for India, John parliamentarian), and the Viceroy of India, also known as Lord Viceroy of India was not a British 2 is Correct: The Morley-Minto a limited form of self-government by number of elected Indians in the Legis_lative Councils the central and provincial 3 is Correct: The Morley-Minto the principle of communal allowed separate electorates for different This provision ensured that British their majority in the Imperial Legislative prevented the emergence of a united Indian

11. #11UPPCS 1991
    Who established the judicial organization in India?
    • ALord Mayo
    • BLord Cornwallis
    • CLord Attlee
    • DLord Curzon
    Answer: (D) Lord Curzon
    Explanation

    Option d is the correct the Government of India Act of 1935, had said, "We were provided with a car with all no engine". He said this because the act failed to expectations of nationalists. The act was silent 'dominion status' or 'swaraj'. It provided the system at the Centre, which made the Governor over reserved subjects absolute and over very effective

12. #12UPSC CAPF 2014
    Between the 15th of August 1947 and the 26th of January India became free and when she declared herself a democratic sovereign republic, Government of India functioned under the provisions of
    • AThe Government of India Act, 1935
    • BThe Indian Independence Act, 1947
    • CThe Indian (Provisional Constitution) Order, 1947
    • DNone of the above
    Answer: (A) The Government of India Act, 1935
    Explanation

    Option a is the correct Muslim League representing mostly Muslims government in Bengal and Sindh after 1946 contrast, Congress representing the majority population, was to go on to form governments provinces of Madras, Bombay, United Provinces, Central Provinces and Berar and NWFP. Important Tips Announcement of 1946 Election: On September 19, 1945, following negotiations between Indian leaders and members of the 1946 Cabinet Mission from the United Kingdom, Viceroy Lord Wavell announced that elections for provincial and central legislatures would take place from December 1945 to January 1946. It was also revealed that an executive council would be established, and a constitution-making body would convene after these elections. Summary of 1946 Election: Central Assembly- In the December 1945 elections for the central assembly, Congress secured 57 seats, the League obtained 30, Independen

13. #13Practice set
    Indian slaves were purchased only for domestic works and were not traded like African slaves. 2. Slaves in India were usually treated as hereditary servants. 3. Only Men were kept as slaves, and never the Women. 4. The Colonial Government made no efforts for the abolishment of slavery in India.How many of the statements given above are correct?
    • AOnly one
    • BOnly two
    • COnly three
    • DAll four 1
    Answer: (B) Only two
    Explanation

    Option b is the correct Limitation Act was passed by the British in 1859. to check the exploitation of ryots by the accumulation of interest over time. It the loan agreement signed between moneylenders would be valid only for a period of three years. Important Tips The Government of India Act 1858 was enacted to subsume and transfer of all the powers of the EEIC under British Crown. The Indian Council Act 1861 devolved the legislative powers to the to the Governments of Bombay and Madras. The Indian Civil Service Act, 1861 mentioned that the examination was to be conducted in England in English language, based on classical learning of Greek and Latin and it reserved certain offices for covenanted civil Servants

14. #14Practice set
    He served as Secretary of the Deccan Education Society. He started Englis,h weekly newspaper, The Hitavada. He played a key role in the framing of the Morley - Minto Reforms of 1909, which eventually became law. He advocated free and compulsory primary education. He was
    • AGopalhari Deshmukh
    • BBalshastri jambedkar
    • CGopal Krishna Gokhale
    • DLala Lajpat rai
    Answer: (C) Gopal Krishna Gokhale
    Explanation

    Option c is the correct Krishna Gokhale He started English weekly newspaper, The Hitavada He served as Secretary of the Deccan Education Society. He was later elected to the Council of India of the Governor-General of India in 1903. He became president in 1905 in Banaras session In 1905, he founded the Servants of India Society, which trained people to be selfless workers. He was instrumental in the formation of Morley- Minto Reforms of 1909, which eventually became law. Gandhi described him as his 'Political advocated free and compulsory primary education for the creation of equal opportunities to fight

15. #15Practice set
    With reference to Shimla Deputation, consider the following statements: 1. The deputation was led by Mohammad Ali Jinnah. 62. 2. The deputation demanded separate electorates for Muslims. 3. The delegation failed to get any support from the British.How many of the statements given above are correct?
    • AOnly one
    • BOnly two
    • CAll three
    • DNone
    Answer: (A) Only one
    Explanation

    Option a is the correct I is incorrect. On 1 October 1906 a 35 Muslim leaders led by Aga Khan met Lord Minto The deputation included five members from and only Nawab (nawab Ali Chowdhury) from and Assam. The aim of the deputation was to sympathies of the Raj on their side concerning to their interests as a 2 is correct. The deputation demanded for the Muslims and representation in excess numerical 3 is incorrect In response to the demands Lord Minto expressed his indirect support principal demand of the Muslim leaders as enunciated memorandum i.e. a separate electorate for the showed the success ot the deputation. Eventually in Morley Minto Reforms made provisions for a for the Muslims of India. Important Tips The demands put forward in Shimla deputation: employment of Muslims to Civil administration, the military and the Judiciary in sufficient numbers; no competitive examinations shoul

16. #16Practice set
    What is the correct chronological order for the following events in the history of Modern India? 1. Passage of Rowlatt act 2. August declaration 3. Jallianwala Bagh massacre 4. Launching of the Non-cooperation movementSelect the correct answer using the code given below
    • A1-2-3-4
    • B2-1-3-4
    • C3-1-4-2
    • D2-3-1-4
    Answer: (B) 2-1-3-4
    Explanation

    Option b is the correct answer. / f chronological order for above events 2. August Declaration of 20th August presented the historic.Montagu Declaration) in the British Parliament. This the basis for the Government of India Act 1. Rowlatt Act was passed.-q, in March political activists to be tried w,ithout juries imprisoned without trial. It allowed arrest of a warrant on the mere suspicion of 'treason'. be tried in secrecy without recourse to The lav. of habeas corpus, the basis of civil liberty, to be 3. The Jallianwala Bagh massacre, also the Amritsar acre, took place on 13 April 1919. peaceful crowd had gathered at the Jallianwala Amritsar, to protest against the Rowlatt Act of pro-independence activists Saifuddin Satyapal. In response to the public gathering, Brigadier ge.Qeral, R. E. H. Dyer, surrounded with his regiment. He ordered them to shoot 4. Launching of the Non-Cooperation

17. #17Practice set
    Consider the following statements regarding the August Declaration of 1917: 1. It was brought by the Secretary of State for India, Edwin Samuel Montagu. 2. It considered the demand by nationalists for self-government as seditious.Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
    • A1 only
    • B2 only
    • CBoth 1 and 2
    • DNeither 1 nor 2
    Answer: (A) 1 only
    Explanation

    Option a is the correct 1 is correct. The Secretary of State for Samuel Montagu, made a statement' on August in the British House of Commons. It was known as Declaration of 2 is incorrect. After the declaration, the nationalists for self-government or home rule could termed as seditious since attainment of Indians now became a government policy

18. #18Practice set
    Which of the following are the recommendations of Simon Commission? 1. Parliamentary Responsibility at the centre. 2. Establishment of Consultative councils for greater India. 3. Separation of Sindh province from Bombay. 4. Unitary structure for Indian Government.Select the correct answer using the code given below
    • A1 and 2 only
    • B2. and 3 only
    • C1 and 4 only
    • D3 and 4 only
    Answer: (B) 2. and 3 only
    Explanation

    Option b is the correct answer. The Simon Commission which was dispatched to India in 1928 to review the Government of India Act 1919 came up with the two-volume report in May 1930 that made certain recommendations on constitutional framework of India. Option 1 is incorrect. The Simon Commission report rejected parliamentary responsibility at the centre. of India had complete control over the whereas the Governor-General was to have to appoint the members of the 2 is correct. The Simon Commission had in order to cope with the diversity of the ultimate character of the Indian government had federal. It suggested that a Consultative Council India should be established which should representatives of both the British provinces as well 3 is correct. The Commission recommended Sindh should be separated from Bombay is not a natural part of the Indian subcontinent. was later implemented by the

19. #19Practice set
    With reference to British which among the following women participated in Third Round Table 1. Jahanara 2. Sarojini Naidu 3. Annie Besant 4. Vijay Laxmi PanditSelect the correct answer using the codes given below
    • A1 only
    • B2 and 3 only
    • C1 and 4 only
    • Dand 4 only
    Answer: (A) 1 only
    Explanation

    Option a is the correct Round Table Conference, held 17, 1932, and December 24, 1932, was by the _Indian National Congress and Gandhi. ignored by other Indian leaders. Only attended since most of the main political India were not The Labour Party from Britain Indian National refused to 1 is correct. British-Indian Representatives: R. Ambedkar (Depressed Classes Ranga Rao of Bobbili, Sir Hubert (Europe,hs), Nanak Chand Pandit, A. H. Gidney (Anglo-Indians), Hafiz Hidayat Iqbal, M. R. Jehangir, N. M. Narasimha Chintamln Kelkar, Arcot Begum Jahanara Shahnawaz 2, 3 and 4 are Sar.ojini Naidu participated in Second Round Table Conference and not in Third Round Table Conference. The Gandhi-Irwin Pact opened the way for Congress' participation in this conference. Gandhi. was invited. from India and attended as the sole official Congress representative accompanied by Sarojini Naidu and also Madan

20. #20Practice set
    With reference to the changes in provincial legislature made by the Chelmsford Reforms, consider the following statements: 1. The legislative councils. could reject the budget. 2, Women were given the right to vote. 3, Ministers were made answerable to the legislature.How many of the above given statements are Only one. (c) All three
    • AOnly one
    • BOnly two
    • CAll three
    • DNone 114. With to the communist ideology during British rule
    Answer: (C) All three
    Explanation

    Option c is the correct 1 and 2 are correct. Important in provincial legislature by the Reforms or Government of India Act, 1919

21. #21Practice set
    Which of the following decided not to boycott the Simon Commission? 1. Liberal faction of the Hindu Mahasabha 2. Faction of the Muslim League under Jinnah 3. Justice Party 4. Faction of the Muslim League under Muhammad Shafi 5. Unionist PartySelect the correct answer using the code given below
    • A1, 2 and 3 only
    • B2, 3 and 5 only
    • C3, 4 and 5 only
    • D1, 3, 4 and 5 only
    Answer: (C) 3, 4 and 5 only
    Explanation

    Option c is the correct Congress session in Madras (December 1927) the presidency of M.A. Ansari decided to boycott commission "at every stage and in every who decided to support the Congress call of the Simon Commission included the liberals of the and the majority faction of the Muslim Jinnah. The league had two sessions in one under Jinnah af Calcutta where it was decided" the Simon Commission, and Lahore Shafi, who supported the Unionists in Punjab and the Justice Party in not to boycott the Simon commission

22. #22Practice set
    With reference to the Simon Commission, consider the following statements: 1. The commission accepted Ambedkar's proposal for separate electorates. 2. It laid the foundation of parliamentary responsibility at the centre. 3. It proposed the separation of Sindh from Bombay.Which of the statements given above are correct?
    • A1 and 2 only
    • B2 and 3 only
    • C1 and 3 only
    • D1, 2 and 3
    Answer: (C) 1 and 3 only
    Explanation

    Option c is the correct answer. The British government appointed the Simon Commission to assess the way the 1919 Montagu-Chelmsford Reforms had worked and to make suggestions for future reforms. The Simon Commission published a two-volume report in May 1930. Statement 1 is correct. In 1928, in his evidence before the Simon Commission, Ambedkar made a strong for separate political representation of the depressed classes through elections and for adopting a different system of franchise. But the Simon Commission rejected the proposal of separate electorate for the depressed classes; however, it retained the concept of reserving seats. Statement 2 is incorrect. The report rejected parliamentary responsibility at the centre. The governor-general was to have complete power to appoint the members of the cabinet. And the Government of India would have complete control over the high court. State

23. #23Practice set
    With reference to the Indian Statutory Commission, consider the following statements:l. It was set up by the British government to suggest constitutional reforms in India. 2. All the seven members of the commission were British. 3. It was appointed priorto its scheduled date because the Labour party government in Britain feared. "defeat by the Consetvative Party. 4. Lord Birkenhead was responsible for the appointment of this commission.,Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
    • A1 and 3 only
    • B1, 2 and 4 only
    • C2, 3 and 4 only
    • D1, 2, 3
    Answer: (B) 1, 2 and 4 only
    Explanation

    Option bis the correct 1 is correct. Indian Statutory known as Simon Commission was appointed as Government of India Act, 1919 to recommend to government whether India was ready for reforms and along what lines. The 1919 a provision that a commission would be appointed from date to study the progress of the and suggest new 2 is correct. Indian Statutory Commission was seven-member commission led by chairman, Simon. It was set up by the British government Baldwin's Prime Ministership on November 8, 3 is incorrect. Although constitutional due only in 1929, the commission was appointed This was because by the the failure of Act to create a stable imperial power had led to reports and inquiries. The Lee into the Raj's failure to recruit enough British Commission looked ihto the diarchic dispensation; and the Linlithgow into the crisis of Indian agriculture. Also, government, then in power in

24. #24Practice set
    Which of the following were outcomes of the Second Round Table Conference of 1931? 1. Announcement of new provinces of North-West Frontier Province (NWFP) and Sindh. 2. Setting up of an Indian Consultative Committee. 3. Setting up of three expert committee for finance, franchise and states. 4. Unilateral British Communal Award if needed future.Select the correct answer using the code given below
    • A1, 2 and 3 only
    • B2, 3 and 4 only
    • C1, 2, 3 and 4
    • D1, 3 and 4 only
    Answer: (C) 1, 2, 3 and 4
    Explanation

    Option c is the correct session ended with announcement 1 is correct. Two Muslim majority West Frontier Province (NWFP) and 2 is correct. The setting up of an 3 is correct. Setting up of three franchise and states; 4 is correct. The prospect of a unilateral Award if Indians failed to the government refused to concede the demand of freedom. Important Tips The second Round Table Conference was held in London from September 7, 1931 to December 1, 1931. There were a large number of Indian participants, besides the Congress. The Prime Minister, Ramsay headed the Conservative dominated cabinet with a weak and reactionary secretary of state for India, Samuel Hoare

25. #25Practice set
    Which among the following were not the recommendations of the Simon Commission appointed in 1927 for introducing constitutional reforms in British India?
    • AIt recommended that Burma should be separated from India
    • BIt recommended the setting-up of representative governments in the provinces
    • CIt recommended the retention of separate communal electorates
    • DIt recommended dominion status for India
    Answer: (D) It recommended dominion status for India
    Explanation

    Option d is the correct November 1927, the British government Simon to report on India's constitutional progress constitutional reforms, as promised. The was dispatched to India in 1928 to review of India Act 1919. The Commission's report in 1930. Before the publication, the that henceforth, Indian opinion would be that the natural outcome of constitutional be dominion status for India. Key Simon a is correct: It recommended that Burma separated bis correct: It recommended abolition of the setting-up of representative governments in c is correct: It also recommended the separate. communal electorates until the had down. The Simon Commission led to of.India Act 1935 which acted as the basis parts of the current Indian d is incorrect: Meanwhile, the publication report of the Simon Commission, which contained of Dominion Status and was in other ways also document

26. #26Practice set
    Which of the following actions/policies by the British were responsible for the creation of Pakistan as a separate nation? 1. The Cripps mission's proposal provided legitimacy to the demand for the creation of a separate nation. 2. Recognition of Muslim league as a sole representative of Muslims in India by Wavell's plan. 3. The British invited the Congress to form interim government without taking into consideration the Muslim League's demands. 4. Acceptance of Pakistan as a separate nation by the Cabinet mission plan.Select the correct answer using the code given below
    • A1 and 2 only
    • B1 and 3 only
    • C2 and 3 only
    • D1, 3 and 4 only
    Answer: (B) 1 and 3 only
    Explanation

    Option b is the correct 1 is correct: Cripps Mission's proposals gave to the activities of the Muslim League and to the Pakistan demand by accommodating it provision for provincial autonomy. In fact, there provision in the mission that any province unwilling to Indian dominion could form a separate union and separate constitution. Hence,. at a time when the hardly been taken seriously by Indians, its by officialdom was a great service to of 2 is incorrect: Wavell plan had no The idea of Wavell plan was to reconstruct executive council (except the governor general and the commander-in-chief, all members of council were to be Indians). For this purpose, conference was convened by the viceroy, Lord June 1945. In this conference Jinnah insisted that has the right to nominate Muslims to the but congress was opposed to it. Thus, not settle their differences Simla conference broke taking any 3

27. #27Practice set
    With reference to interim government of 1946, consider the following statements: 1. Muslim league members joined the interim government with the condition of not giving up with their 'direct action' program. 2. It functioned according to the provision of Government of India Act of 1919. 3. Jawaharlal Nehru was the President of the Viceroys Executive Council.How many of the statements given above are correct?
    • AOnly one
    • BOnly two
    • CAll three
    • DNone
    Answer: (B) Only two
    Explanation

    Option b is the correct September 1946 interim government was constituted congress government. Wavell later brought the into the Interim Government on October 26, 1 is correct: Muslim league decided to join government without surrendering 'direct the interim government consisted only On Octqber 26, 1946 the League was allowed without giving up the 'direct action' despite its rejection of the long-term and short-term plans put forward by cabinet mission. And despite its insistence on compulsory grouping and decisions bdng taken by a majority vote given by section of population for the whole 2 is correct: It functionep. under the provision of India act 1919." A'federal scheme the Government of India Act of 1935, was due to the opposition from India's As a result, the interim government to the older Government of India Act of 3 is incorrect: The members of the were members of the Viceroy's

28. #28Practice set
    With reference to Congress's stand towards Cabinet Mission proposals, consider the following statements: 1. Congress interpreted Cabinet Mission proposals as mandatory grouping of provincial assemblies into three sections. 2. Congress all together rejected the proposals under Cabinet mission. 3. Congress objected to the proposal that provinces need to wait till the first general elections to come out of a group.How many of the statements given above are correct?
    • AOnly one
    • BOnly two
    • CAll three
    • DNone
    Answer: (A) Only one
    Explanation

    Option a is the correct Cabinet Mission reached Delhi on March 24, 1946. constituted to provide solution on the interim principles and procedures for framing a new constitution giving freedom to 1 is incorrect: Each party Muslim league as congress interpreted cabinet mission differently. To the Cabinet Mission Plan was interpreted as: The grouping of existing provincial assemblies' intro three section was optional. Hence, rejecting the plan of Pakistan. one constituent assembly was envisaged; and the League no longer had a 2 is incorrect: Congress as well as Muslim the long-term plan put forward by the The long-term plan includes: After the first general elections, a province would be free to come out of a and after 10 years, a province would be free to call for a reconsideration of the group or the union constitution. Meanwhile, an interim government would be formed from the constituent

29. #29Practice set
    Which of the following can be said to be the correct reasons for the failure of Cripps Proposal of 1942? 1. The proposal made it mandatory for independent India to join the organization of Commonwealth. 2. There was no representation of the princely states in the constituent assembly to be formed. 3. The provision of the right to provinces to secede was against national unity. 4. There was no plan for immediate transfer of power into Indian hands.Select the correct answer using the codes given below
    • A1 and 2 only
    • B3 and 4 only
    • C1 and 4 only
    • D2, 3 and 4 only
    Answer: (B) 3 and 4 only
    Explanation

    Option b is the correct answer. In March 1942, a mission headed by Stafford Cripps was sent to India with constitutional proposals to seek Indian support for the war. Stafford Cripps was a left-wing Labourite, the leader of the House of Commons, and a member of the British War Cabinet who had actively supported the Indian national movement. Statement 1 is incorrect: Cripps Mission proposed that Indian Union with a dominion status would be set up; it would be free to decide its relations with the Commonwealth and free to participate in the United Nations and other international bodies. Hence, Free India could withdraw from the Commonwealth. Therefore, it was not the reason for the failure of Cripps Mission. Statement 2 is incorrect: The Congress objected to the proposal of representation of the princely states by nominees and not by elected representatives. Statement 3 is correct: The pro

30. #30Practice set
    The Plan of Cripps Mission was different from other constitutional schemes proposed under British rule because
    • Afor the first time, the mission explicitly mentioned that the goal of the British is to establish a responsible government in India
    • Bthe mission recognised Pakistan as a Separate nation
    • Cthe mission promised Indians the sole right to make their own Constitution
    • Dthe promised complete independence for India in return for its support in World War
    Answer: (C) the mission promised Indians the sole right to make their own Constitution
    Explanation

    Option c is the correct British Government in 1942 sent a mission headed Cripps (known as Cripps Mission) to. India proposals to seek Indian support for the Cripps was a left-wing Labourite, the leader of of Commons and a member of the British War had actively supported the Indian national a is incorrect: Even before the Cripps Mission, August Declaration of 1917 for the first time that the goal of the British is to establish a in India. The declaration was announced Secretary of State for India, Edwin Samuel Montagu 1917. The declaration stated that an of Indians in every branch of gradual development of self-governing institutions realisation of responsible government in India integral part of the British b is incorrect: The Cripps Mission did Pakistan as a separate nation. The rejected the Cripps Mission 1942 because the not recognize Pakistan and presented the idea of a Union. Howeve

31. #31Practice set
    Consider the following statements with reference to the Cabinet Mission Plan of 1946: 1. It provided for a common centre which would control defence, communication and external affairs. 2. It accepted the demand for a full-fledged Pakistan. H 3. It proposed that all the members of Constituent Assembly were to be elected directly by the people on the basis of Universal Adult Franchise. 4. Under the plan, the residuary powers were to be enjoyed by the Provincial Governments.How many of the statements given above are correct?
    • AOnly one
    • BOnly two
    • COnly three
    • DAll four
    Answer: (B) Only two
    Explanation

    Option b is the correct answer. The Attlee government announced in February 1946 to send a high-powered mission of three members (Pethick Lawrence, Secretary of State Stafford Cripps, and A.V. Alexander) to India to ways and means for a negotiated, peaceful transfer to India. Pethick Lawrence was the chairman of The important recommendations of the Plan were as I is correct: The Cabinet Mission common centre to control defence, communication affairs. A federal structure was envisaged for 2 is incorrect: Cabinet mission had rejected for a full-fledged Pakistan, because

32. #32Practice set
    What was the reason for the Muslim League to withdraw from long term plan of the Cabinet Mission?
    • ACabinet Mission Plan had rejected the demand for a full-fledged Pakistan
    • BBecause of news about appointment of Mountbatten for the post of Viceroy
    • CJ. L. Nehru's statement which implied that the Grouping was not compulsory
    • DPoor performance of the Muslim League in 1946 Provincial elections
    Answer: (C) J. L. Nehru's statement which implied that the Grouping was not compulsory
    Explanation

    Option c is the correct Muslim League accepted the long-term planput the Cabinet Mission on June 6, 1946. On July 10, L Nehru stated, "The big probability is that there no grouping as NWFP and Assam would have joining sections B and On July 29, 1946, the withdrew its acceptance of the long-term plan to Nehru's statement and gave a call for from August 16 to achieve July 10, 1946, J L Nehru stated, "We are not a single thing except that we have decided to go Constituent Assembly (implying that the was sovereign and would decide the rules

33. #33Practice set
    During the course of the Second world war, British government took various steps like sending Cripps India Mission, proposing Wavell Plan, etc. to gain support of Indians. Which of the following factors were responsible for the British efforts? 1. There were widespread civilian movements in Britain for grant of independence to India. 2. Allied powers faced several reverses during the war in Europe as well as in South East Asia. 3. Indian nationalists had agreed to support Allied cause if government agreed to their demands.Select the correct answer using the code given below
    • A1 only
    • B1 and 3 only
    • C2 and 3 only
    • D1, 2 and 3
    Answer: (C) 2 and 3 only
    Explanation

    Option c is the correct 1 is incorrect. Though certain sections people and political party like Labour party towards Indian cause, there were no movements nor was there such urgency in granting independence to 2 covrect. It,was.. when the, Allied, vevenes in Euvope as well as in the South East the couse of second wodd wu that the took a move conciliatovy stance 3 is correct. During the second world nationalists had agveed to support the Allied substantial powev was tvansfened immediately in_dependence given after the war

34. #34Practice set
    Which of the following events responsible for the development of Two- Ii Nation Theory? 1. Morley-Minto Reforms. 2. The Nehru Report on constitutional reforms. 3. Pirpur Committee. 4. Lahore Session of the Muslim League.Select the correct code using the option given below
    • A1, 2 and 4 only
    • B1, 3 and 4 only
    • C2, 3 and 4 only
    • D1, 2, 3 and 4
    Answer: (D) 1, 2, 3 and 4
    Explanation

    Option d is the correct following series of events over the years were the development of Two-Nation Theory: Statement I is correct: The Indian Councils Act 1909 as the gave separate electorate for 2 is correct: In 1928, Nehru Repo.tt veforms as suggested. by the Congress by Muslim and Sikh League. In response, Fourteen Points demanding separate reservation for Muslims in government servic.e and governing 3 is correct: All India.Muslim League Committee in November 1930 to prepare a regarding the atrocities of the Congress 193 7-1939) formed after the elections under the India Act 1935 in different provinces. Statement 4 is correct: On March 24, 1940, Muslim League passed the Pakistan Resolution at the Lahore session

35. #35Practice set
    Consider the following events: 1. Direct Action Day 2. 3. Wavell Plan 4. Cabinet MissionWhich of the following is the correct chronological sequence of the above events?
    • A1-2-3-4
    • B2-3-4-1
    • C1-3-2-4
    • D2-4-3-1 mllll
    Answer: (B) 2-3-4-1
    Explanation

    Option b is the correct 2. The Cripps Proposal was made by a delegation Stafford Cripps in 3. The Wavell Plan was offered by Lord Wavell Conference in 4. The Cabinet Mission was sent by the in I. Direct Action Day was observed by the after the failure of the Cabinet Mission in 1946

36. #36Practice set
    Which of the following were the official negotiators for the Indian National Congress for the Cripps mission? 1. Jawaharlal Nehru 2. Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel 3. Maulana Azad 4. J.B KriplaniSelect the correct answer using the code below
    • A1 and 2 only
    • B2 and 4 only
    • C1 and 3 only
    • D3 and 4 only
    Answer: (C) 1 and 3 only
    Explanation

    Option c is the correct March 1942, a mission headed by Stafford Cripps was India with constitutional proposals to seek Indian the war. Stafford Cripps was a left-wing Labourite, of the House of Commons and a member of the Cabinet who had actively supported the Indian Nehru and Maulana Azad were the for the Congress to the Cripps Cripps Mission proposals failed to satisfy and turned out to be merely a propaganda the consumption of the US and the Chinese. Important Tips The Congress objected to the mission on following (i) the offer of dominion status instead of a provision for complete (ii) representation of the princely states by nominees arid not by elected representatives; ( right to provinces to secede as this went against the principle of national unity; and (iv) absence of any plan for immediate transfer of power and absence of any real share in defence; the governor general's supr

37. #37Practice set
    With reference to Cabinet Mission. Plan, consider the following statements: 1. It proposed federal of government for state 2. The concept of grouping of proyincial assemblies the basis of. religio,n was opposed by Congress. 3, It ruled out the accession of Hyderabad to Pakistan. 4. It recommended for a Constituent assembly with representatives of all the major groups of provinces.How many of the above given statements are correct?
    • AOnly one
    • BOnly two
    • COnly three
    • DAll four
    Answer: (C) Only three
    Explanation

    Option c is the correct In March 1946, a committee of the British Cabinet the Cabinet Mission, led by Sir Pethick-Lawrence to assess the Indian political situation and frame for making a constitution for 1 is correct. The Cabinet Mission held that Muslims were apprehensive of a unitary, Hindu the constitutional structure should be federal. should have maximum autonomy and the should have minimum power such as on defence and communication. The Union could financial resources required for the such 2 is correct. The Congress Party grouping of provinces on the basis of religion. party feared that the groups would frame rules in such a way that, after the elections, legislatures would be so constituted as to withdrawal impossible. This would satisfy the demand of Pakistan and would be unjust to like Assam and the North-West Frontier the Congress was 3 is incorrect. It was under Mountbatten Ju

38. #38Practice set
    Consider the following statements with respect to financial decentralization during the British rule in India? 1. Lord Ripon divided the sources of revenue in three groups, Imperial, Provincial and Local. 2. Provincial and Central budget got separated by the Government of India Act 1919. 3. Government of India act 1935, had the provision for Grants-in-aid to the provinces.Select the correct answer using the code given below
    • A1 and 2 only
    • B2 only
    • C2 and 3 only
    • D1, 2 and 3
    Answer: (C) 2 and 3 only
    Explanation

    Option c is the correct Government of India Act, 1919 had a provision that would be appointed 10 years from date to progress of the governance scheme and suggest Accordingly, the Simon Commission was set up by government on November 8, of the appointment of the Simon Commission 1 is correct: Simon Commission accepted of federalism but not in the near future. Thus, recognised idea of Federalism for suggested that a Consultative Council India should be established, which should of both the British provinces as well 2 is incorrect: As a response to the the Simon Commission, Congress held a session in 1927) under the presidency of M.A. Ansari to boycott the commission "at every stage every form". Meanwhile, Nehru succeeded in getting resolution passed at the session, declaring as the goal of the the Indian National Congress, on 19 December the historic 'Puma Swaraj' - (total - at its Lahore

39. #39Practice set
    With reference to 'Government of India Act, 1935', consider the following statements: 1. The provision for joint sitting was made in case of deadlock between the Council of States and the Federal Legislative Assembly. 2. Provinces derived their authority directly from the British Crown and could borrow money on their own security. 3. The franchise was extended with almost half of the total population getting the right to vote. 4. The Act provided for a Federal Court with original and appellate powers to settle inter-state disputes.How many of the statements given above are correct?
    • AOnly one
    • BOnly two
    • COnly three
    • DAll four
    Answer: (C) Only three
    Explanation

    Option c is the correct 1 is correct. Under Government of India Act was a provision for joint sitting in cases of the houses. There were to be three subject lists the Federal Legislative List, the Provincial Legislative the Concurrent Legislative List. Residuary were subject to the discretion of the governor general. Even if a bill was passed by the federal governor-general could veto it, while even Acts assented by the could be disallowed by the is correct. Provinces derived th. power an directly from the British Crown The y were financial powers and resources. could borrow money on their own 3 is incorrect. Under the 1935 act, Franchise with about 10 per cent of the total the right to vote. The principles of and 'weightage' were further extended classes, women and 4 is correct. The Act provided for a Federal was established in 1937), with original and to interpret the 1935 Act and sett

40. #40Practice set
    With reference to the Government of India Act of 1935, consider the following statements: 1. The Federal Assembly was to be directly elected body while the Council of States was to be an indirectly elected body. 2. Members of Federal Assembly could not move a vote of no-confidence against ministers. 3. Governor-general had powers to certify bills rejected by the legislature.How many of the statements given above are correct?
    • AOnly one
    • BOnly two
    • CAll three
    • DNone
    Answer: (A) Only one
    Explanation

    Option a is the correct Government of India Act was passed by the in August 1935, following the third Round 1 is incorrect: The bicameral legislature at was to have an upper house (Council of States) lower house (Federal Assembly). The Federal to be a 375-member house, partly indirectly British Indian provinces and partly by the princes. The Council of States was to 260-member house, partly directly elected from provinces and. partly nominated by 2 is incorrect. Members of Federal move a vote of no-confidence against of States could not move a vote of 3 is correct. Governor-general had He could certify bills rejected by the cuts in grants, ordinances and exercise his veto

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