During the 1930s, Lord Zetland played a significant role in which of the following events related to India's constitutional reforms?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: C
Explanation
The correct answer is option 3 i.e. Round Table Conferences.
- During the 1930s, Lord Zetland played a significant role in the Round Table Conferences events related to India's constitutional reforms.
-
Lord Zetland, an influential British Conservative politician, was actively involved in constitutional developments in India during the 1930s.
-
Although he participated in the Round Table Conferences as part of the British delegation, his most impactful role came later when he served as the Secretary of State for India during the passage of the Government of India Act, 1935—a major outcome of the Round Table discussions.
- The First Round Table Conference was officially opened on 12 November 1930 by King George V at the Royal Gallery, House of Lords, London. The conference was chaired by the then-Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, Ramsay MacDonald.
- The primary agenda was to discuss constitutional reforms, particularly in relation to the Simon Commission’s report.
- The Indian National Congress (INC) boycotted the conference entirely, protesting against the Simon Commission, which had excluded Indian members.
- A total of 74 delegates represented India, including 58 political leaders from British India and 16 representatives from the princely states.
- Despite the absence of the Congress, the conference made limited progress in laying groundwork for future talks.
- The session concluded on 2 January 1931, paving the way for the Second Round Table Conference, which saw broader participation.