The "Simon Commission" of 1927 was intended to review the working of the Government of India Act of 1919.
Why was it met with widespread protests and boycotts by Indian nationalist leaders?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: C
Explanation
Answer: No Indian member was included in it.
Explanation –
The Simon Commission (officially the Indian Statutory Commission) was constituted by the British government in November 1927. Its primary objective was to review the progress of the constitutional system established under the Government of India Act of 1919 (Montagu-Chelmsford Reforms) and to propose future reforms.
It was boycotted by Indian nationalist leaders—particularly by large factions within the Congress and the Muslim League—because this seven-member commission did not include a single Indian member. This was perceived as an affront to the self-respect of Indians and a violation of their right to determine their own future. For this very reason, it was also referred to as the 'White Commission.' When it arrived in India in 1928, slogans of "Simon Go Back" rang out across the entire country. It was during these protests in Lahore that Lala Lajpat Rai was subjected to a lathi-charge (baton charge), which subsequently led to his death.
Additional Points –
John Simon: He served as the Chairman of this commission.
Clement Attlee: Who later became the Prime Minister of Britain, was also a member of this commission.
Recommendations: The commission recommended the abolition of 'Dyarchy' and the establishment of representative government in the provinces.
Potential Exam Questions and Answers –
Question: Which prominent leader died following a lathi-charge during the protests against the Simon Commission?
Answer: Lala Lajpat Rai.
Question: In response to the boycott of the Simon Commission, which British Secretary challenged Indians to draft a unanimous constitution?
Answer: Lord Birkenhead (which subsequently led to the Nehru Report).