Moderates and Extremists in Congress is part of Modern History of India. Below are notes on 12 sub-topics, followed by practice MCQs from State PSC and UPSC papers.

Achievements and limitations of the Moderate phase

  • Achievements of Moderates:
    • Provided a systematic economic critique of British rule (Drain of Wealth theory by Naoroji, Dutt, Gokhale), exposing colonialism's exploitative nature and laying the firm foundation for 20th-century freedom movement (MCQ 2).
    • Promoted democratic ideals, civil liberties, and representative institutions.
    • Demanded Indianization of services, separation of judiciary, repeal of Arms Act, and greater Indian representation.
    • Helped pass the Indian Councils Act of 1892, expanding legislative councils (though limited).
    • Created a broad national political awakening and consciousness.
  • Limitations of Moderates:
    • Narrow social base, failed to mobilize masses beyond educated elite.
    • Relied primarily on 'constitutional means' through petitions, prayers, and protests (3Ps), which yielded slow results.
    • Believed in British sense of justice and fair play, and loyalty to the Crown initially.
    • Limited demands (administrative reforms, not complete Swaraj initially).
    • Their methods were criticized as "political mendicancy" by Extremists.
    • Faced hostile attitudes from British officials:
      • Lord Dufferin stated that the INC represented a "microscopic minority."
      • Lord Curzon predicted the INC was "tottering to its fall."
      • Sir Syed Ahmad Khan observed: "The Congress is in reality a civil war without arms."
  • Later Developments (post-Moderate phase relevance):
    • Following the Montagu-Chelmsford Reforms (1919) and disagreement with Gandhi's Non-Cooperation Movement, many Moderates left the Congress.
    • They formed the National Liberation Federation (Liberal Party), with prominent founders including Tej Bahadur Sapru and M. R. Jayakar (MCQ 1).

Attempts at reconciliation and the Lucknow Pact (1916)

  • Surat Split (1907): Indian National Congress divided into Moderates and Extremists.
  • Reconciliation Efforts: Initiated by Annie Besant and Bal Gangadhar Tilak.
  • Factors for Congress Reunion: Death of prominent Moderate leaders (G.K. Gokhale and Pherozeshah Mehta in 1915), pressure from Home Rule League agitation, World War I.
  • Lucknow Session (1916):
    • President: Ambika Charan Mazumdar.
    • Congress Reunion: Moderates and Extremists reunited.
    • Lucknow Pact: Historic agreement between the Indian National Congress and the All-India Muslim League.
  • Lucknow Pact Key Features:
    • Congress accepted separate electorates for Muslims (a major concession).
    • INC and Muslim League agreed to present joint demands to the British for constitutional reforms, aiming for selfgovernment.
  • Montagu Declaration (August 1917): British government declared its policy of "increasing association of Indians in every branch of the administration" and "progressive realization of responsible government in India."
  • Second Split in Congress (1918): Occurred over the Montagu-Chelmsford Reforms (based on the Montagu Declaration). Moderates largely accepted the reforms, forming the Indian Liberal Federation, while Extremists/ Nationalists rejected them as inadequate.
  • Chronological Order of Events:
    • Surat Split: 1907
    • Lucknow Pact: 1916
    • Rowlatt Act: 1919
    • Gandhi-Irwin Pact: 1931

Differences in aims, objectives, and strategies between Moderates and Extremists

  • Aims & Objectives:
  • Moderates: Aimed for self-government within the British Empire (Dominion Status), constitutional reforms, and gradual political progress.
  • Extremists: Advocated for 'Swaraj' (complete self-rule or independence from foreign rule), often defined as self-government similar to independent countries, not merely within the British Empire.
  • Strategies & Methods:
  • Moderates: Employed constitutional agitation, petitions, prayers, public meetings, resolutions, and deputations to Britain ('3Ps' Prayer, Petition, Protest). Believed in the justice and fair play of the British.
  • Extremists: Advocated for more assertive methods like Swadeshi (promotion of indigenous goods), Boycott of foreign goods and institutions, National Education, and Passive Resistance. Emphasized self-reliance and mass participation.
  • Key Figures & Ideologies:
  • Moderates: Dadabhai Naoroji, Gopal Krishna Gokhale, Surendranath Banerjea, Pherozeshah Mehta. Believed in a policy of 'political mendicancy' according to Extremist critics.
  • Extremists: Bal Gangadhar Tilak ("Swaraj is my birthright, and I shall have it!"), Lala Lajpat Rai, Bipin Chandra Pal (Lal-Bal-Pal), Aurobindo Ghosh.
  • Critique of Moderates: Aurobindo Ghosh systematically critiqued moderate politics in his series of articles entitled "New Lamps for Old."
  • Designation: Extremists were also designated as "Neo-Nationalists."
  • 1907 Surat Split: The major difference between Moderates and Extremists in the Congress session of 1907 (Surat Split) was primarily regarding the definition and scope of 'Swaraj' and the appropriate 'strategies' to achieve it, especially the extent of the Boycott movement.

Economic critique of British rule by Moderates (Drain Theory)

  • Moderates developed the "Drain Theory" as their central economic critique of British rule.
  • Key Proponents: Dadabhai Naoroji (authored "Poverty and Un-British Rule in India"), R.C. Dutt (authored "The Economic History of India"), M.G. Ranade, G.K. Gokhale.
  • Concept of Drain: Unrequited transfer of wealth and resources from India to Britain without equivalent economic returns or benefits for India.
  • Mechanisms of Drain: 'Home Charges' (salaries, pensions, interest on Indian debt, military expenditure), profits of British capital, 'free trade' policies favouring British industry, high taxation, and exploitation of India as a source of raw materials and market for British finished goods.
  • Impact of Drain: Resulted in India's impoverishment, de-industrialization, recurring famines, and hindered its economic development.
  • Moderates comprehended India's vital role as a colony in sustaining and expanding Britain's imperial economy.
  • Moderate Strategy: Focused on constitutional agitation, economic analysis, petitions, and creating public awareness; they did not advocate boycott of foreign goods (which was an Extremist tactic).
  • Their primary focus was on British economic exploitation, with less prominent emphasis on internal exploitation by Indian zamindars/ landlords.

Emergence of the Moderates and their foundational principles (1885-1905)

  • Emergence (1885-1905): The early phase of the Indian National Congress (INC) was dominated by leaders known as Moderates or Early Nationalists.
  • Key Leaders: Surendranath Banerji (S.N. Banerjee), Gopal Krishna Gokhale (G.K. Gokhale), Dadabhai Naoroji, Pherozeshah Mehta, M.G. Ranade, Dinshaw Wacha, W.C. Bonnerjee, R.C. Dutt.
  • Core Principles/Beliefs:
    • Deep faith in British justice, fair play, and the constitutional path.
    • Believed British rule was an act of providence, destined to bring modernization and Western civilization to India.
    • Admired modern European democratic institutions and scientific culture.
    • Desired self-government (dominion status) within the British Empire, not complete independence.
    • Complained against "Un-British Rule" in India, appealing for governance based on true British principles.
    • Strongly criticized the economic aspect of British imperialism, formulating the "Drain of Wealth" theory (Dadabhai Naoroji, R.C. Dutt).
  • Methods of Agitation:
    • Adopted constitutional means and peaceful, gradual approaches.
    • Used "Prayer, Petition, Protest" (PPP): petitions, resolutions, public meetings, appeals to British Parliament.
    • Aimed to educate the Indian public and influence British public opinion.
  • Key Demands (1885-1905):
    • Expansion and reform of legislative councils.
    • Indianization of civil services (simultaneous ICS exams in India and England).
    • Separation of judiciary from executive.
    • Increased Indian representation in legislative bodies.
    • Reduction of military expenditure.
    • Freedom of speech and press.
  • Later Developments: After the MontaguChelmsford Report (1919), many Moderates, disagreeing with the Congress's condemnation of the reforms, left the party to form the Indian Liberal Federation (e.g., S.N. Banerji, Tej Bahadur Sapru).

Factors contributing to the rise of Extremism (e.g., Famines, Partition of Bengal, international events)

  • Failure of Moderates: Limited success of their "constitutional agitation" (petitions, prayers) led to disillusionment and call for more assertive methods.
  • Reactionary Policies of British Viceroys:
    • Lord Curzon (1899-1905): Implemented highly unpopular and repressive policies.
      • Calcutta Corporation Act (1899): Reduced Indian representation.
      • Indian Universities Act (1904): Increased government control over universities.
      • Official Secrets Act (1904): Curtailed press freedom.
      • Partition of Bengal (1905): Direct and most significant immediate cause, seen as a deliberate attempt to divide and rule, sparking widespread protests and the Swadeshi Movement.
    • Indifference during famines (e.g., 1896-97, 1899-1900) and plague epidemics (e.g., 1896-97) highlighted British callousness.
  • Rise of Religious Nationalism: Leaders like Tilak, Lajpat Rai, and Bipin Chandra Pal invoked Hindu symbols (e.g., Ganesh Utsav, Shivaji Utsav) and historical figures, fostering national pride but often alienating Muslims who generally did not participate due to this "harping on Hindu past."
  • International Events:
    • Defeat of Italy by Ethiopia (1896) and Russia by Japan (1905) shattered the myth of European invincibility and boosted Indian self-confidence.
    • Inspired a belief that Asians could challenge powerful European nations.
  • Economic Exploitation: Continued drain of wealth, poverty, and industrial stagnation under British rule fueled widespread discontent.
  • Quote: "The sleeping giant of Asia has woken up and no power on earth can stop him now" was said by Lenin for the textile workers protesting against Tilak's transportation in July 1908.

Ideology and methods of the Extremists: Swadeshi, Boycott, National Education, Passive Resistance

  • Extremists' Ideology: Advocated for 'Swaraj' (self-rule/complete independence) as an inherent right, rejecting reforms or selfgovernment within the British Empire.
  • Extremists' Methods: Rejected Moderate's 'petition-prayer-protest' policy; emphasized self-reliance, mass mobilization, and direct action.
  • Key Extremist Leaders: Bal Gangadhar Tilak, Lala Lajpat Rai, Bipin Chandra Pal (Lal-BalPal), Aurobindo Ghosh. They consistently stressed self-reliance and people's own strength.
  • Bal Gangadhar Tilak: Declared, "Swaraj (Freedom) is my birthright and I shall have it." (First Indian to declare this).
  • Swami Dayananda Saraswati: Stated, "No matter how good the foreign rule may be, it cannot match Swarajya."
  • Sister Nivedita: Commented, "The British empire is rotten to the core, corrupt in every direction and tyrannical and mean."
  • Dadabhai Naoroji: Continuously emphasized self-rule (Swaraj) in 1904, 1905, and 1906; declared Swaraj as Congress's goal at the 1906 Calcutta Session.
  • Aurobindo Ghosh: Wrote a series of articles titled "New Lamps for Old" (1893-94), critiquing Moderate policies.
  • Swadeshi: Promotion of indigenous goods and industries; a core economic and political method to achieve self-sufficiency and pressure the British.
  • Boycott: Primarily of British goods, but also extended to British institutions (schools, courts, government services).
  • National Education: Establishment of schools and colleges to impart education free from colonial influence, focusing on nationalistic values and Indian culture (e.g., Bengal National College, 1906, with Aurobindo Ghosh as principal).
  • Passive Resistance: A method articulated by Extremists (e.g., Aurobindo Ghosh in "Bande Mataram") involving non-violent defiance, non-cooperation with the government, and social boycott.
  • Religious Festivals as Political Tools (Tilak):
    • Ganapati Festival: Introduced by Tilak in 1893, converted into a public ceremony, drawing inspiration from the Muslim festival of Mohurrum.
    • Shivaji Festival: First organized by Tilak in 1896.

Ideology and methods of the Moderates: Constitutional agitation, petitions, prayers, protests

  • Ideology: Believed in the British sense of justice and fair play; aimed for self-government within the British Empire (dominion status), achieved through gradual and constitutional reforms, not revolution.
  • Political Progress: Believed in slow, orderly political progress, drawing inspiration from Western political thought.
  • Methods (Constitutional Agitation): Operated within the framework of the law; included petitions, memorials, resolutions, public meetings, legislative debates, and press campaigns (e.g., Amrita Bazar Patrika, The Hindu) to appeal to the British government and public.
  • Criticism of Methods: B.G. Tilak famously accused the Moderates of practicing "Pray, Petition, and Protest," highlighting their reliance on representations.
  • Public Opinion: Sought to educate and mobilize public opinion in India and influence British public opinion through various means, including delegations to Britain.
  • Avoidance of Extreme Measures: Generally avoided mass movements or radical actions; Gopal Krishna Gokhale believed "a weapon like boycott must be reserved for extreme occasions."
  • Key Political/Administrative Demands:
    • Expansion and reform of Legislative Councils (increase Indian representation, greater powers).
    • Indianisation of higher public services (simultaneous ICS exams in India and England).
    • Separation of Executive and Judiciary.
    • Repeal of the Arms Act.
    • Greater powers for local selfgovernment bodies.
    • Reduction of military expenditure.
  • Key Economic Demands:
    • Reduction of land revenue.
    • Protection of Indian industries.
    • Inquiry into India's poverty and famines.
    • Abolition of salt tax.
  • Demands NOT made by Moderates:
    • Universal adult franchise.
    • Complete independence or overthrow of alien (British) rule.
    • Extension of Permanent Settlement (they generally advocated for land revenue reduction).
    • Unification of Executive and Judiciary (they explicitly demanded separation).

Key Extremist leaders and their contributions (Bal Gangadhar Tilak, Lala Lajpat Rai, Bipin Chandra Pal)

  • Bal Gangadhar Tilak: Extremist leader, known as 'Lokmanya'.
  • Bal Gangadhar Tilak: Coined the slogan: "Swaraj is my birthright and I shall have it!".
  • Bal Gangadhar Tilak: Started 'Ganeshotsav' and 'Shivaji Utsav' in Maharashtra to foster nationalism.
  • Bal Gangadhar Tilak: Founded Lathi clubs and Akharas to promote self-confidence and self-defence among youth.
  • Bal Gangadhar Tilak: Max Muller pleaded for mercy after his sentence, stating his interest was "that of a Sanskrit Scholar".
  • Lala Lajpat Rai: Extremist leader from Punjab, known as 'Sher-e-Punjab' or 'Punjab Kesari'.
  • Lala Lajpat Rai: A leading critic of the Congress's 'politics of petitions'.
  • Lala Lajpat Rai: Active member of Arya Samaj.
  • Lala Lajpat Rai: Opposed the Punjab Colonisation Act.
  • Bipin Chandra Pal: Extremist leader, emphasized self-reliance.
  • Bipin Chandra Pal: Felicitated by Aurobindo Ghosh as 'the Prophet of Great Political Creed'.
  • Bipin Chandra Pal: Was against the Non-Cooperation Movement initiated by Gandhiji.
  • Bipin Chandra Pal: Did not give evidence against Aurobindo Ghosh in the 1907 legal case.
  • All three (Lal-Bal-Pal) were key figures in the Extremist group of Congress, advocating for 'Swaraj' through self-reliance and mass agitation, thereby ending the Congress policy of 'pray and petition'.

Key Moderate leaders and their contributions (Dadabhai Naoroji, G.K. Gokhale, Pherozeshah Mehta)

G.K.

Gokhale,

Pherozeshah Mehta)

  • Dadabhai Naoroji:
    • Known as 'Grand Old Man of India'.
    • First Indian Professor of Mathematics and Physics at Elphinstone College, Bombay.
    • Elected to the British House of Commons in 1892 (from Finsbury Central) as a Liberal Party member; first Indian to become a British MP.
    • Authored "Poverty and Un-British Rule in India" (1901), articulating the 'Drain of Wealth' theory.
    • Started the Gujarati journal 'Rast Goftar'.
    • Co-founder of the East India Association (1866).
    • President of INC three times: 1886, 1893, and 1906 (Calcutta session, where 'Swaraj' was declared as the Congress's goal).
    • Stated: "Kings are made for Public; Public is not made for the King."
    • K.M. Panikkar referred to him as "the first diplomat of modern India".
  • Gopal Krishna Gokhale:
    • Political guru of Mahatma Gandhi.
    • Founded the Servants of India Society in 1905 in Pune, to train national missionaries.
    • Edited the 'Sudharak' newspaper and started the 'Hitavada' journal.
    • President of INC (1905, Benares session).
  • Pherozeshah Mehta:
    • Known as 'Lion of Bombay'.
    • Part of the 'Bombay Triumvirate' along with K. T. Telang and Badruddin Tyabji.
    • Founder of 'The Bombay Chronicle' newspaper (1910).
    • President of INC (1890).
  • Key Moderate Leaders (General):
    • Prominent moderates include Dadabhai Naoroji, G.K. Gokhale, Pherozeshah Mehta, Surendranath Banerjee, M.G. Ranade, R.C. Dutt, A.O. Hume, K.T. Telang, Badruddin Tyabji, and Madan Mohan Malviya.
    • Leaders NOT considered moderates (extremists) include Bal Gangadhar Tilak, Lala Lajpat Rai, and Bipin Chandra Pal ('Lal-Bal-Pal').

The Surat Split (1907) and its immediate aftermath

  • Surat Session (1907): Indian National Congress (INC) split into Moderates and Extremists.
  • President of Surat Session (1907): Rash Behari Ghosh.
  • Primary Reason for Split: Fundamental ideological and tactical differences; Extremists' lack of faith in Moderates' capacity to negotiate with the British Government.
  • Key Disagreements: Methods of agitation (petition vs. passive resistance), extent of Swadeshi and Boycott movements, and choice of Congress President. Extremists sought to extend Swadeshi/Boycott beyond Bengal and to all forms of government association.
  • Immediate Aftermath of Split: Extremists were sidelined and suppressed; key leaders like B.G. Tilak were imprisoned; Moderates dominated Congress until 1916.
  • Reunification of Congress: Occurred in 1916 at the Lucknow Session.
  • President of Lucknow Session (1916): Ambica Charan Majumdar (Note: S.P. Sinha was President in 1915).
  • Second Split in Congress: Occurred in 1918.
  • Issue of Second Split (1918): Montagu Declaration (also known as Montagu-Chelmsford Reforms proposals).
  • Chronological Context: Queen Victoria assumes Empress of India (1877) → Ilbert Bill Controversy (1883) → Lord Curzon as Viceroy (1899-1905) → Surat Split (1907).

The Swadeshi and Boycott Movement (1905-1908) as a point of divergence

  • The Swadeshi and Boycott Movement (1905-1908), triggered by the Partition of Bengal (1905), served as a significant point of divergence between the Moderates and Extremists within the Indian National Congress.
  • Moderates (e.g., G.K. Gokhale) advocated for constitutional methods and aimed to limit the movement to Bengal with the objective of annulling the partition.
  • Extremists (e.g., B.G. Tilak, Lala Lajpat Rai, Bipin Chandra Pal, Aurobindo Ghosh) pressed for the movement's expansion nationwide, promoting passive resistance, boycott of foreign goods, government services, schools, and titles, with the broader goal of Swaraj (self-rule).
  • Disagreements over the scope, methods, and ultimate objectives of the Swadeshi Movement intensified the ideological divide.
  • This escalating conflict primarily contributed to the formal split of the Indian National

14. Revolutionary Movement in India

Practice MCQs: Moderates and Extremists in Congress

Achievements and limitations of the Moderate phase

  1. Who among the following formed the National Liberation Federation (Liberal Party)?

    Asked in: UPSC CDS 2 2020

    1. Motilal Nehru and C. R. Das
    2. Muhammad Ali and C. R. Das
    3. T. B. Sapru and M. R. Jayakar
    4. M. R. Jayakar and C. R. Das
    Show answer

    Answer: C. T. B. Sapru and M. R. Jayakar

    The Liberal Party advocated for constitutional methods and gradual progress towards self-government, distinguishing themselves from the more radical approaches gaining prominence in the Congress after Gandhi's rise.

  2. The early nationalists provided the firm foundation to the 20th century freedom movement through :

    Asked in: MPSC CS Prelims 2014

    1. Politics of petitions
    2. Constitutional means
    3. Agitational way
    4. Economic critique of colonialism
    Show answer

    Answer: D. Economic critique of colonialism

    While early nationalists employed peaceful, constitutional methods (A and B), their major intellectual contribution was the detailed critique of the economic impact of British rule (D), which helped mobilize public opinion and laid the groundwork for future agitations. Agitational way (C) was more characteristic of the later nationalists (Extremists).

Attempts at reconciliation and the Lucknow Pact (1916)

  1. After the Surat split in 1907, the Second Split in the Congress took place in 1918 on the issue of:

    Asked in: WBCS Main Paper 3 2019

    1. Lucknow Pact
    2. Montagu Declaration
    3. Election of Mrs. Annie Besant as President of the INC (1917)
    4. Both (A) & (C)
    Show answer

    Answer: B. Montagu Declaration

    - The Montagu Declaration promised the gradual development of self-governing institutions in India. - The subsequent Montagu-Chelmsford Reforms (1919) were seen differently by various factions within the Congress, causing a rift between those willing to work with them and those who rejected them.

  2. What will be the correct chronological order of the following events? (i) Surat Split (ii) Lucknow Pact (iii) Rowlatt Act (iv) Gandhi- Irwin Pact

    Asked in: GS and General English JE Civil PWD 05 2025

    1. (i)-(ii)-(iii)-(iv)
    2. (i)-(iii)-(ii)-(iv)
    3. (iii)-(ii)-(iv)-(i)
    4. (ii)-(iv)-(iii)-(i)
    Show answer

    Answer: A. (i)-(ii)-(iii)-(iv)

    This question requires knowledge of the dates of significant events in Indian nationalist history to arrange them chronologically.

Differences in aims, objectives, and strategies between Moderates and Extremists

  1. The major difference between the moderates and the extremists in the Congress session of 1907 was regarding

    Asked in: WBPSC CS Prelims 2015

    1. Satyagraha
    2. Swaraj
    3. Education
    4. Boycott
    Show answer

    Answer: B. Swaraj

    The major difference between the Moderates and Extremists in the Congress session of 1907 (Surat Split) revolved around their differing views on the goal of the nationalist movement ('Swaraj') and the methods to achieve it.

  2. Who among the following gave a systematic critique of the moderate politics of Indian National Congress in a series of articles entitled "New Lamps for Old"?

    Asked in: WBPSC CS Prelims 2018

    1. Aurobindo Ghosh
    2. R. C. Dutt
    3. Syed Ahmad Khan
    4. None of the above
    Show answer

    Answer: A. Aurobindo Ghosh

    Aurobindo Ghosh wrote a series of articles titled "New Lamps for Old" published in the Marathi newspaper 'Indu Prakash' in 1893-94. In these articles, he criticized the Indian National Congress for its moderate approach, which relied heavily on petitions and prayers to the British government.

  3. Who were designated as Neo Nationalists?

    Asked in: WBCS Main Paper 3 2019

    1. Extremists
    2. Revolutioneries
    3. Moderates
    4. Swarajists
    Show answer

    Answer: A. Extremists

    The term "Neo-Nationalists" is often used to refer to the Extremist group within the Indian National Congress, which emerged in the early 20th century. Leaders like Bal Gangadhar Tilak, Lala Lajpat Rai, Bipin Chandra Pal, and Aurobindo Ghosh advocated for more radical methods like passive resistance, boycott, and mass agitation, and sought complete Swaraj (Self-Rule), contrasting with the Moderates who preferred constitutional methods and gradual reforms.

Economic critique of British rule by Moderates (Drain Theory)

  1. Which one of the following statements about the moderate leaders of the Indian National Congress is *not* correct ?

    Asked in: UPSC CAPF 2010

    1. They criticized the British for drain of wealth from India
    2. They advocated boycott of foreign goods
    3. They ignored the issue of exploitation of Indian rural people by the zamindars
    4. They comprehended the vital role played by India in the imperial economy of Britain
    Show answer

    Answer: B. They advocated boycott of foreign goods

    Moderates like Dadabhai Naoroji, Surendranath Banerjee, and Gopal Krishna Gokhale, while critical of British policies, trusted in British justice and sought reforms through dialogue and gradual steps. Their main contributions included exposing the economic exploitation of India (drain theory) and demanding increased Indian participation in administration and legislative councils.

Emergence of the Moderates and their foundational principles (1885-1905)

  1. Moderate leaders of the Indian National Congress were 1. S. N. Banerjee and G. K. Gokhale 2. S. N. Banerjee and Lala Lajpat Rai 3. S. N. Banerjee and Lokmanya Tilak 4. S. N. Banerjee and Bipin Pal Which of the above statement/s is/are correct?

    Asked in: GPSC Prelims CSP 1 2023

    1. Only 1
    2. Only 2
    3. 1 and 2
    4. 2 and 3
    Show answer

    Answer: A. Only 1

    Leaders like Lala Lajpat Rai, Lokmanya Tilak, and Bipin Pal (often referred to as the 'Lal-Bal-Pal' trio) belonged to the Extremist faction, which advocated for more assertive methods like boycotts, Swadeshi, and passive resistance to achieve Swaraj (self-rule).

  2. Who of the following, was not the Moderate leader of Indian National Congress ?

    Asked in: HPPSC HPAS Prelims 2016

    1. Gopal Krishna Gokhale
    2. M.G. Ranade
    3. Aurobindo Ghosh
    4. Surendra Nath Banerji
    Show answer

    Answer: C. Aurobindo Ghosh

    The Indian National Congress was broadly divided into Moderates and Extremists during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Moderates believed in petitioning the British government for gradual reforms, while Extremists sought more radical methods to achieve self-rule.

  3. Who among the following was not a leader of the moderate faction of the Indian National Congress?

    Asked in: HPPSC HPAS Prelims 2016

    1. Gopal Krishna Gokhale
    2. M.G. Ranade
    3. Aurobindo Ghosh
    4. Surendranath Banerji
    Show answer

    Answer: C. Aurobindo Ghosh

    The Moderates believed in achieving self-governance gradually through constitutional means, dialogue, and petitioning the British authorities.

  4. Read the following statements related to the liberal phase of Indian National Movement (1885 - 1905 A.D.) :

    Asked in: RPSC RAS Prelims 2024

    1. Supported the rich democratic and sci‐ entific culture of modern Europe.
    2. Strongly criticized the Economic aspect of British imperialism. Select the correct answer using the codes given below : A. Both A and B are true. B. Neither A nor B is true.
    3. Only A is true.
    4. Only B is true.
    Show answer

    Answer: A. Supported the rich democratic and sci‐ entific culture of modern Europe.

    - Statement A is true: The early nationalist leaders, often referred to as Moderates, were influenced by Western education and liberal thought. They admired the British parliamentary system, democracy, and scientific progress. They believed in seeking reforms through constitutional means and appealing to the British government and public's sense of justice, reflecting support for democratic and scientific aspects of modern Europe. - Statement B is true: The Moderates were strong critics of the economic policies of British imperialism. Led by figures like Dadabhai Naoroji, R.C. Dutt, and G.K. Gokhale, they meticulously analyzed and exposed the exploitative nature of British rule, formulating the 'Drain Theory' which argued that Britain was draining India's wealth. This economic critique was a cornerstone of their nationalist ideology.

  5. Given below are two statements, one is labelled as Assertion (A) and the other as Reason (R). Assertion (A): Most of the early nationalists considered British rule as an act of providence destined to bring modernisation. Reason (R): They complained only against "Un-British rule" in India. Select the correct answer from the codes given below:

    Asked in: UPPCS Prelims 2024

    1. Both (A) and (R) are true, but (R) is not the correct explanation of (A).
    2. (A) is false, but (R) is true.
    3. Both (A) and (R) are true and (R) is the correct explanation of (A)
    4. (A) is true, but (R) is false.
    Show answer

    Answer: C. Both (A) and (R) are true and (R) is the correct explanation of (A)

    The perspective of early Indian nationalists was complex. While appreciating certain aspects like modern education and infrastructure, they were pioneers in exposing the economic drain and discriminatory policies. Their critique of "Un-British rule" highlights their initial faith in British ideals of justice and liberalism, which they felt were not being applied in India.

  6. When Congress leaders condemned the Montagu-Chelmsford Report, many moderates left party to from the

    Asked in: UPPCS Prelims 2003

    1. Swarajya Party
    2. Indian Freedom Party
    3. Independence Federation of India
    4. Indian Liberal Federation
    Show answer

    Answer: D. Indian Liberal Federation

    Following the Congress session in 1918 where the Montagu-Chelmsford Report (which proposed reforms) was largely rejected as inadequate, a group of moderate leaders within the Congress who favored working within the framework of the reforms decided to leave the party. Led by Surendranath Banerjea, they formed the Indian Liberal Federation in 1919.

Factors contributing to the rise of Extremism (e.g., Famines, Partition of Bengal, international events)

  1. What was the direct cause of the rise of Extremism in the Indian National Movement?

    Asked in: WBPSC CS Prelims 2016

    1. The Govt. did not pay heed to moderates.
    2. Oppression by the Britishers on the Indians.
    3. The Partition of Bengal.
    4. Rise of revolutionary terrorism.
    Show answer

    Answer: C. The Partition of Bengal.

    The Partition of Bengal in 1905 by Lord Curzon was a major turning point and a direct catalyst for the rise of political extremism within the Indian National Movement. It ignited widespread protests, including the Swadeshi and Boycott movements, which advocated for more assertive and confrontational methods than those used by the moderates. This event significantly strengthened the position of extremist leaders who had already been critical of moderate policies.

  2. The Indian Muslims, in general, were not attracted to the Extremist movement because of the

    Asked in: UPPCS Prelims 1998

    1. influence of Sir Sayyid Ahmed Khan
    2. anti-Muslim attitude of extremist leaders
    3. indifference shown to Muslim aspirations
    4. Extremists’ policy of harping on Hindu past
    Show answer

    Answer: D. Extremists’ policy of harping on Hindu past

    Extremist leaders like Bal Gangadhar Tilak employed Hindu festivals (Ganesh Chaturthi, Shivaji festival) and historical figures to mobilize the masses and instill national pride. While effective in fostering unity among Hindus, this approach based on Hindu revivalism and 'harping on the Hindu past' was perceived by many Muslims as exclusive or insensitive to their identity, making them less likely to join the movement enthusiastically.

  3. What were the reasons for the rise of Extremism in Indian politics? Consider the following statements: (i) Failure of the liberals (ii) Reactionary policies of Lansdowne, Elgin and Curzon. (iii) The Governments negligent behavior during times of famine and epidemic. (iv) Religious Nationalism Select the correct answer - A) (ii), (iii) and (iv) B) (i) and (iii) C) (i), (ii) and (iii) D) (i), (ii), (iii) and (iv)

    Asked in: Department Recruitment 2024 (Assistant Archivist) 2024

    1. (ii), (iii) and (iv)
    2. (i) and (iii)
    3. (i), (ii) and (iii)
    4. (i), (ii), (iii) and (iv)
    Show answer

    Answer: D. (i), (ii), (iii) and (iv)

    The rise of Extremism in Indian politics in the early 20th century was a complex phenomenon driven by several factors: the perceived failure of the moderate leaders to achieve significant political concessions from the British, the reactionary policies of Viceroys like Lansdowne, Elgin, and Curzon who were seen as undermining Indian aspirations, the government's indifferent response to famines and epidemics, and the growth of religious nationalism which fostered a stronger sense of separate identity and a more assertive political stance.

  4. What is/are the immediate cause(s) of rise of Extremists in Indian National Movement?

    Asked in: FISHERY OFFICER EXTENSION OFFICER (FO EO) 2020

    1. The University Act, 1904
    2. Exploitative British Rule
    3. Restriction of Freedom of Press
    4. All of the above
    Show answer

    Answer: D. All of the above

    The rise of Extremism within the Indian National Movement was a response to the perceived failures of moderate policies and the increasing repression by the British government. Key leaders like Bal Gangadhar Tilak, Lala Lajpat Rai, and Bipin Chandra Pal advocated for more direct and assertive methods.

  5. "The sleeping giant of Asia has woken up and no power on earth can stop him now". Who said it and for whom?

    Asked in: Sub Inspector 2021

    1. Lenin, for the textile workers who came out on the streets in protest against Tilak's transportation in July, 1908
    2. M. K. Gandhi for the poor peasants when they participated in the Bardoli Satyagraha
    3. Subhash Chandra Bose for NIA soldiers
    4. None of the above
    Show answer

    Answer: A. Lenin, for the textile workers who came out on the streets in protest against Tilak's transportation in July, 1908

    The question tests the attribution of a famous quote to a historical figure and the context in which it was said, linking it to specific nationalist events in India.

Ideology and methods of the Extremists: Swadeshi, Boycott, National Education, Passive Resistance

  1. Who said, "Swaraj is my birthright and I shall have it"?

    Asked in: BPSC Prelims Exam 65th

    1. Bipin Chandra Pal
    2. Aurobindo Ghosh
    3. Bal Gangadhar Tilak
    4. Subhash Chandra Bose
    Show answer

    Answer: C. Bal Gangadhar Tilak

    Bal Gangadhar Tilak was a prominent Indian nationalist, teacher, social reformer, lawyer, and independence activist. He was one of the first leaders of the Indian independence movement and is considered the "father of the Indian unrest".

  2. Who was the first Indian to declare that "Freedom is my birth-right" ?

    Asked in: HPPSC HPAS Prelims 2011

    1. Mahatma Gandhi
    2. Bal Gangadhar Tilak
    3. Lala Lajpat Rai
    4. Chandra Shekhar Azad
    Show answer

    Answer: B. Bal Gangadhar Tilak

    The famous declaration "Swaraj is my birthright, and I shall have it!" is attributed to Bal Gangadhar Tilak, a prominent leader of the Indian independence movement and one of the "Lal-Bal-Pal" extremist trio.

  3. "The British empire is rotten to the core, corrupt in every direction and tyrannical and mean." This statement was made by

    Asked in: MPPSC CS Prelims 2018

    1. Sister Nivedita
    2. Savitribai Phule
    3. Annie Besant
    4. Bal Gangadhar Tilak
    Show answer

    Answer: A. Sister Nivedita

    - Sister Nivedita (born Margaret Elizabeth Noble) was an Irish social worker, author, teacher, and disciple of Swami Vivekananda. - She dedicated her life to the cause of India and was a strong critic of British rule, actively participating in nationalist movements.

  4. In 1893, Tilak converted the Ganapati celebration into a public ceremony by drawing inspiration from the ______ .

    Asked in: MPSC CS Prelims 2015

    1. Muslim festival of Id
    2. Muslim festival of Mohurrum
    3. Durga Pooja of Bengal
    4. Festival of Yom Kippur
    Show answer

    Answer: B. Muslim festival of Mohurrum

    Tilak used cultural and religious festivals as platforms to unite people, promote nationalism, and disseminate anti-colonial messages during the freedom struggle.

  5. Who amongst the following continuously emphasised on giving self-rule to India in 1904, 1905 and 1906 ?

    Asked in: OPSC CS Prelims 2018

    1. Surendranath Banerjee
    2. Pherozeshah Mehta
    3. Bal Gangadhar Tilak
    4. Dadabhai Naoroji
    Show answer

    Answer: D. Dadabhai Naoroji

    Dadabhai Naoroji, a veteran nationalist and a prominent leader, served as Congress President three times. In his presidential address at the Calcutta session in 1906, he explicitly declared 'Swaraj' (self-rule) as the goal of the Indian National Congress, defining it as self-government like that of the United Kingdom or the colonies. His advocacy for Indian rights and self-government was consistent throughout his career, culminating in this formal declaration during the specified period.

  6. Bal Gangadhar Tilak introduced the Ganapati Festival in 1893. He held the first Shivaji festival in

    Asked in: WBPSC CS Prelims 2023

    1. 1884
    2. 1885
    3. 1896
    4. 1897
    Show answer

    Answer: C. 1896

    Bal Gangadhar Tilak started the public Ganapati festival in 1893 to foster nationalist sentiment. He introduced the Shivaji festival to commemorate Shivaji Maharaj and inspire national pride. While the first Shivaji festival is widely cited as having been held in 1895, among the given options, 1896 is the closest year and is sometimes cited as a year of significant early celebration promoted by Tilak.

  7. Which one of the following defines extremist ideology during the early phase of Indian freedom movement?

    Asked in: UPPCS Prelims 1998

    1. Stimulating the production of indigenous articles by giving them preference over imported commodities
    2. Obtaining self-government by aggressive means in place of petitions and constitutional ways
    3. Providing national education according to the requirements of the country
    4. Organising coups against the British empire through military revolt
    Show answer

    Answer: B. Obtaining self-government by aggressive means in place of petitions and constitutional ways

    - The Indian National Congress was broadly divided into Moderates and Extremists from the late 19th century until the Surat Split in 1907. - Moderates believed in gradual reform and used methods like petitions, prayers, and constitutional means to influence British policy. - Extremists, led by figures like Bal Gangadhar Tilak, Bipin Chandra Pal, Lala Lajpat Rai (Lal-Bal-Pal), and Aurobindo Ghosh, believed that Swaraj was their birthright and advocated for self-reliance, passive resistance, boycott of British goods and institutions, and mass mobilisation to achieve their goals. - Option A (Swadeshi) and C (National Education) were important components of the Extremists' program, but option B captures the fundamental difference in their approach to achieving political goals compared to the Moderates.

  8. "No matter how good the foreign rule may be, cannot match Swarajya." Whose views are expressed in this statement?

    Asked in: School Lecturer (Sanskrit Edu.) 2022 2 2022

    1. Raja Ram Mohan Roy
    2. Swami Vivekananda
    3. Bal Gangadhar Tilak
    4. Swami Dayananda Saraswati
    Show answer

    Answer: C. Bal Gangadhar Tilak

    Bal Gangadhar Tilak is famous for his slogan "Swarajya is my birthright, and I shall have it." The given statement underscores this philosophy, emphasizing the intrinsic value of self-rule over any form of foreign dominion.

Ideology and methods of the Moderates: Constitutional agitation, petitions, prayers, protests

  1. Which one of the following was not a demand made by the Congress moderates?

    Asked in: UPSC CDS 2 2020

    1. Universal adult franchise
    2. Repeal of the Arms Act
    3. Extension of Permanent Settlement
    4. Higher jobs for Indians in the army
    Show answer

    Answer: A. Universal adult franchise

    The early Congress moderates (roughly 1885-1905) primarily sought constitutional reforms, including a larger share for Indians in the administration and legislative councils, but based on limited franchise (often property or education based), not universal adult suffrage. Universal adult franchise became a core demand of the nationalist movement later.

  2. Which one of the following is not a political method of the moderates in the National Movement ?

    Asked in: UPSC CDS 2 2021

    1. Overthrow of alien rule
    2. Constitutional agitation
    3. Slow, orderly political progress
    4. Mobilisation of public opinion
    Show answer

    Answer: A. Overthrow of alien rule

    - The Moderates (circa 1885-1905) believed in achieving political progress through constitutional means, petitions, prayers, and protests within the legal framework provided by the British government. - Their methods included holding meetings, sending petitions and memoranda to the British Parliament and government officials, and using the press to educate and mobilize public opinion. - They sought reforms within the existing political structure and aimed for self-government gradually achieved within the British Empire, not its complete overthrow.

  3. Who believed that "a weapon like boycott must be reserved for extreme occasions" ?

    Asked in: MPSC CS Prelims 2012

    1. Mahadev Govind Ranade
    2. Gopal Krishna Gokhale
    3. Pherozshah Mehta
    4. Dadabhai Naoroji
    Show answer

    Answer: B. Gopal Krishna Gokhale

    - Moderates like Gokhale believed in using peaceful and constitutional means to achieve political reforms. - They were wary of radical methods like boycott, viewing them as potentially leading to violence or hindering constructive engagement.

  4. Who accused Indian National Congress of practicing politics of 'Pray, petition and protest’?

    Asked in: UPPCS Prelims 2005

    1. B.G.Tilak
    2. M.A. Jinnah
    3. S.C. Bose
    4. Annie Besant
    Show answer

    Answer: A. B.G.Tilak

    - The Indian National Congress was divided into Moderate and Extremist factions in its early phase. - Moderates used constitutional methods like petitions and appeals. - Extremists advocated for more assertive methods and criticized the Moderates' approach. - B.G. Tilak was a leading figure among the Extremists.

  5. In the first stage of the National Movement, which one among the following was *not* the demand of the Congress ?

    Asked in: MPPSC CS Prelims 2023

    1. To increase the number of members of the Legislative Councils
    2. To increase the number of members of the public representatives in the Councils
    3. Separation of Executive and Judiciary
    4. Unification of Executive and Judiciary
    Show answer

    Answer: D. Unification of Executive and Judiciary

    In the first stage of the National Movement (the Moderate phase, roughly 1885-1905), the Congress's demands included increasing the number of members in Legislative Councils, increasing the number of public representatives (Indians) in these councils, and specifically, the separation of Executive and Judiciary. Unification of Executive and Judiciary was the opposite of their demand.

  6. Read the following statements about the politics of the moderates : - The Moderates demanded that the Legislative Councils are to be made more representative. - The Moderates also advocated for the reduction of land revenue. Choose the correct code :

    Asked in: Protection Officer 2022

    1. Only statement (a) is true.
    2. Only statement (b) is true.
    3. Neither statement (a) nor (b) is true.
    4. Both (a) and (b) are true.
    Show answer

    Answer: A. Only statement (a) is true.

    The Moderates in the Indian National Congress focused on constitutional methods and gradual reforms. Their key demands included increasing the representation of Indians in legislative bodies and improving the functioning of existing institutions, rather than radical changes or agrarian reforms as a primary focus.

Key Extremist leaders and their contributions (Bal Gangadhar Tilak, Lala Lajpat Rai, Bipin Chandra Pal)

  1. Which one of the following statements about Bipin Chandra Pal is correct?

    Asked in: UPSC NDA 2 2018

    1. He was a member of the moderate group of Congress.
    2. He was a member of the extremist group of Congress.
    3. He was the Minister of Defence in the first Government of independent India.
    4. He was the Chief Minister of West Bengal.
    Show answer

    Answer: B. He was a member of the extremist group of Congress.

    The Indian National Congress split into two main factions in the early 20th century: the Moderates and the Extremists. The Extremists advocated for more radical methods like Swadeshi, Boycott, and passive resistance to achieve self-rule (Swaraj), rather than just constitutional petitions and requests favoured by the Moderates. Bipin Chandra Pal, along with Bal Gangadhar Tilak and Lala Lajpat Rai, formed the famous 'Lal Bal Pal' trio, who were leading figures of the Extremist movement.

  2. “Swaraj is my birth right”— who said?

    Asked in: WBPSC CS Prelims 2017

    1. Lala Lajpat Rai
    2. Aurobindo Ghosh
    3. Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose
    4. Bal Gangadhar Tilak
    Show answer

    Answer: D. Bal Gangadhar Tilak

    Bal Gangadhar Tilak (1856-1920), a prominent nationalist leader and one of the early proponents of Swaraj (self-rule), popularized this slogan during the Indian independence movement.

  3. Who was felicitated by Aurobindo Ghosh as 'the Prophet of Great Political Creed'?

    Asked in: WBPSC CS Prelims 2022

    1. Brahmabandhab Upadhyay
    2. Ashwini Kumar Dutta
    3. Rashbehari Bose
    4. Bipin Chandra Pal
    Show answer

    Answer: D. Bipin Chandra Pal

    Bipin Chandra Pal was a prominent leader of the Indian nationalist movement, part of the 'Lal-Bal- Pal' trio. He was a strong advocate of Swadeshi, boycott, and national education during the partition of Bengal movement.

  4. After the sentence of B.G. Tilak, who amongst the following has pleaded for mercy and said: "My Intrest in Tilak is that of a Sanskrit Scholar"

    Asked in: UPPCS Prelims 2014

    1. Rabindranath Tagore
    2. Max Muller
    3. Bipinchandra Pal
    4. William Jones
    Show answer

    Answer: B. Max Muller

    During Bal Gangadhar Tilak's trial and sentencing for sedition in 1908, the renowned German-born Indologist Max Muller appealed to the British authorities for clemency. Max Muller, known for his scholarship on Sanskrit and Indian religions, stated his interest in Tilak was primarily as a fellow Sanskrit scholar and highlighted Tilak's valuable contributions to Sanskrit studies.

  5. "Swaraj is my Birth right." The above assertion is attributed to

    Asked in: UPPCS Prelims 2005

    1. Bal Gangadhar Tilak
    2. Gopal Krishna Gokhale
    3. Jawaharlal Nehru
    4. Subhash Chandra Bose
    Show answer

    Answer: A. Bal Gangadhar Tilak

    - Bal Gangadhar Tilak was a prominent leader of the Indian independence movement and a key figure in the Indian National Congress. - He was part of the extremist faction ('Lal Bal Pal') and advocated for Swaraj (self-rule). - This slogan became a rallying cry for the independence movement.

  6. Who among the following said “Swaraj is our birth right”?

    Asked in: UPPSC Upper Mains 2015

    1. M. K. Gandhi
    2. G K. Gokhale
    3. B. G. Tilak
    4. Dada Bhai Naoroji
    Show answer

    Answer: C. B. G. Tilak

    The slogan "Swaraj is our birth right" is one of the most memorable calls for self-rule in the Indian independence movement and is attributed to the nationalist leader Bal Gangadhar Tilak.

  7. The Congress policy of pray and petition ultimately came to an end under the guidance of

    Asked in: UPPCS Prelims 1999

    1. Aurobindo Ghosh
    2. Bal Gangadhar Tilak
    3. Lala Lajpat Rai
    4. Mahatma Gandhi
    Show answer

    Answer: B. Bal Gangadhar Tilak

    The "pray and petition" policy characterized the approach of the early Moderate leaders of the Indian National Congress, who sought reforms through constitutional means, petitions, and dialogue with the British authorities. Bal Gangadhar Tilak was a prominent leader of the Extremist faction who strongly criticized this approach. He advocated for more assertive methods like passive resistance, boycott of foreign goods, Swadeshi, and the demand for Swaraj (self-rule), which marked a significant shift away from the moderate strategy. His influence and activism contributed significantly to the decline of the dominance of the 'pray and petition' policy.

  8. Who among the following started 'Ganeshotsav' in Maharashtra ?

    Asked in: MPPSC CS Prelims 2023

    1. Bipin Chandra Pal
    2. Govind Ranade
    3. Lala Lajpat Rai
    4. Bal Gangadhar Tilak
    Show answer

    Answer: D. Bal Gangadhar Tilak

    Bal Gangadhar Tilak significantly popularized and transformed the Ganesh festival (Ganeshotsav) in Maharashtra in the 1890s into a major public event and a vehicle for nationalist mobilization.

Key Moderate leaders and their contributions (Dadabhai Naoroji, G.K. Gokhale, Pherozeshah Mehta)

  1. Who was elected to the House of Commons to speak for Indian interests in 1890s ?

    Asked in: OPSC CS Prelims 2018

    1. R. C. Dutt
    2. Madam Cama
    3. R. P. Dutt
    4. Dadabhai Naoroji
    Show answer

    Answer: D. Dadabhai Naoroji

    Dadabhai Naoroji, known as the "Grand Old Man of India," was the first Asian to be elected as a Member of Parliament (MP) in the British House of Commons. He represented the Liberal Party for the Central Finsbury constituency from 1892 to 1895.

  2. Which Indian Nationalist Leader is known as 'Grand Old Man of India'?

    Asked in: WBPSC CS Prelims 2021

    1. Badruddin Tyabji
    2. Surendranath Banerjee
    3. Gopal Krishna Gokhale
    4. Dadabhai Naoroji
    Show answer

    Answer: D. Dadabhai Naoroji

    Dadabhai Naoroji was a prominent figure in the early Indian nationalist movement, a liberal leader, Parsi intellectual, educator, and cotton merchant. He was a Member of Parliament (MP) in the United Kingdom House of Commons between 1892 and 1895, the first Indian to be a British MP. He is also credited with articulating the "Drain of Wealth" theory. His long and distinguished service to the national cause earned him the title 'Grand Old Man of India'.

  3. Who was known as the 'Grand Old Man of India'?

    Asked in: WBPSC CS Prelims 2022

    1. Badruddin Tyabji
    2. Surendranath Banerjee
    3. Gopal Krishna Gokhale
    4. Dadabhai Naoroji
    Show answer

    Answer: D. Dadabhai Naoroji

    Dadabhai Naoroji played a significant role in the formation of the Indian National Congress and served as its President multiple times. He is best known for his "Drain of Wealth" theory, which analyzed the economic exploitation of India by the British.

  4. Who founded Servants of India Society?

    Asked in: WBPSC CS Prelims 2022

    1. Annie Besant
    2. Mahadev Govind Ranade
    3. Gokhale
    4. B. G. Tilak
    Show answer

    Answer: C. Gokhale

    The society was formed for the expansion of Indian education and aimed to train Indians in public life and social work.

  5. Which of the following are known as the Bombay Triumvirate?

    Asked in: WBPSC CS Prelims 2023

    1. B. G. Tilak, G. K. Gokhale and M. B. Nam‐ joshi
    2. Ferozshah Mehta, K. T. Telang and Badruddin Tyabji
    3. B. G. Tilak, G. G. Agarkar and G. H. Desh‐ mukh
    4. Dadabhai Naoroji, K. T. Telang and R. G. Bhandarker
    Show answer

    Answer: B. Ferozshah Mehta, K. T. Telang and Badruddin Tyabji

    - The Bombay Triumvirate consists of Ferozshah Mehta, K. T. Telang, and Badruddin Tyabji. - They were leading figures from Bombay in the early Indian National Congress. - They were known for their moderate political stance.

  6. Dadabhai Naoroji was elected to the British House of Commons as a member of the _____ party.

    Asked in: WBPSC CS Prelims 2023

    1. Conservative
    2. Liberal
    3. Labour
    4. Labour-Liberal combine
    Show answer

    Answer: B. Liberal

    Dadabhai Naoroji, often referred to as the 'Grand Old Man of India', was elected to the British House of Commons in 1892 from the Central Finsbury constituency. He stood as a candidate for the Liberal Party.

  7. Which of the following statements is not correct about Dadabhai Naoroji?

    Asked in: UPPCS Prelims 2014

    1. He was the first Indian to be appointed as professor of Mathematics and Physics at Elphinstone College, Bombay
    2. He was elected as member of British Parliament in 1882.
    3. He started a Gujarati journal 'Rast Goftar'
    4. After the sentence of B.G. Tilak, who amongst the following has pleaded for mercy and said: "My Intrest in Tilak is that of a Sanskrit Scholar"
    Show answer

    Answer: B. He was elected as member of British Parliament in 1882.

    Dadabhai Naoroji was indeed elected to the British Parliament, becoming the first Asian to do so. However, he was elected in 1892 from the Central Finsbury constituency, not in 1882. Therefore, statement B is incorrect.

  8. "Kings are made for Public; Public is not made for the King." Who among the following made this statement during the national movement?

    Asked in: UPPCS Prelims 2015

    1. Surendra Nath Banerjee
    2. R.C. Dutt
    3. Dadabhai Naoroji
    4. Gokhale
    Show answer

    Answer: D. Gokhale

    Gopal Krishna Gokhale was a prominent moderate leader of the Indian National Congress and a staunch advocate of constitutional methods for achieving self-rule. This quote reflects his liberal democratic ideals, emphasizing that the purpose of governance and rulers is to serve the welfare of the people, not the other way around.

The Surat Split (1907) and its immediate aftermath

  1. Choose the correct option after reading following statements: Statement-I : In 1907, Congress's Annual Session was presided by Rash Behari Ghosh Statement-II : In this session, Congress got divided into two groups (Moderates and Extremists) Statement-III : In Congress's Annual Session of 1916, two groups (Moderates and Extremists) got united. This session was presided by S. P. Sinha

    Asked in: CGPSC Prelims Exam 2021

    1. Statement-I, II and III all are true
    2. Statement-I, II and III all are false
    3. Statement-I, II are true but Statement-III is false
    4. Statement-I, II are false but Statement-III is true
    Show answer

    Answer: C. Statement-I, II are true but Statement-III is false

    Statement-I is true. The 1907 Surat session of the Indian National Congress was indeed presided over by Rash Behari Ghosh. Statement-II is true. The 1907 Surat session is historically significant for the split between the Moderates and the Extremists factions of the Congress. Statement-III is false. The reunion of the Moderates and Extremists occurred at the 1916 Lucknow session. However, the President of the 1916 Lucknow session was Ambica Charan Mazumdar, not S.P. Sinha. S.P. Sinha presided over the 1915 Bombay session.

  2. What was the main reason for the split in the Indian National Congress at Surat in 1907?

    Asked in: UPSC IAS 2016

    1. Introduction of communalism into Indian politics by Lord Minto
    2. Extremists' lack of faith in the capacity of the moderates to negotiate with the British Govern‐ ment
    3. Foundation of Muslim League
    4. Aurobindo Ghosh's inability to be elected as the President of the Indian National Congress
    Show answer

    Answer: B. Extremists' lack of faith in the capacity of the moderates to negotiate with the British Govern‐ ment

    The Surat split occurred primarily due to ideological differences regarding strategy and goals between the Moderates (led by leaders like Gopal Krishna Gokhale) and the Extremists (led by leaders like Bal Gangadhar Tilak, Lala Lajpat Rai, and Bipin Chandra Pal - the 'Lal Bal Pal' trio).

  3. After the Surat Split in 1907, the second split in the Congress took place in 1918 on the issue of

    Asked in: WBPSC CS Prelims 2023

    1. Lucknow Pact
    2. Montagu Declaration
    3. Election of Mrs. Annie Besant as President of the INC (1917)
    4. Both (B) and (C) above
    Show answer

    Answer: B. Montagu Declaration

    The Montagu Declaration of August 1917 promised the gradual development of self-governing institutions in India. The subsequent Montagu-Chelmsford Report in 1918 detailed proposals for constitutional reforms. Differing opinions within the Congress on whether to accept or reject these reforms led to a split. Moderates, who were more inclined to cooperate with the reforms, parted ways with the main body of the Congress, forming the Indian National Liberal Federation.

  4. Where did the Indian Congress got divided into two wings- moderates and extremists ?

    Asked in: UPPSC Upper Mains 2012

    1. Surat Session 1907
    2. Lahore Session 1909
    3. Calcutta Session 1911
    4. Karachi Session 1913
    Show answer

    Answer: A. Surat Session 1907

    The Indian National Congress split into two main factions, the Moderates and the Extremists, at its session held in Surat in December 1907. The split occurred primarily due to disagreements over the methods of protest, the aims of the Congress (particularly regarding Swaraj), and the election of the President for the session. The Extremists favoured passive resistance, boycott, and Swadeshi, while the Moderates preferred constitutional methods and gradual reforms.

  5. Assertion (A): Partition of Bengal in 1905 brought to an end the Moderates’ role in the Indian freedom movement. Reason (R): The Surat session of Indian National Congress separated the Extremists from the Moderates.

    Asked in: UPPCS Prelims 1998

    1. Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A
    2. Both A and R are true, but R is NOT a correct explanation of A
    3. A is true, but R is false
    4. A is false, but R is true
    Show answer

    Answer: D. A is false, but R is true

    - Assertion (A) states that the Partition of Bengal in 1905 brought to an end the Moderates' role in the Indian freedom movement. This is an overstatement. While the Partition agitation and the subsequent rise of extremist methods and leadership weakened the Moderates' influence and eventually led to their split with the Extremists, it did not immediately or completely "bring to an end" their role. Moderates continued to be a part of the Indian National Congress and the freedom movement, though their dominance waned after 1907. Thus, Assertion (A) is false. - Reason (R) states that the Surat session of the Indian National Congress separated the Extremists from the Moderates. This is historically accurate. The Surat session in 1907 saw a formal split between the two factions over ideological differences and control of the Congress. Thus, Reason (R) is true. - Since Assertion (A) is false and Reason (R) is true, option D is correct.

  6. Surat Split took place in

    Asked in: WBCS Main Paper 3 2023

    1. 1900
    2. 1907
    3. 1911
    4. 1919
    Show answer

    Answer: B. 1907

    - The split was a result of ideological differences and disagreements over the leadership and methods of the Congress movement, particularly concerning the Swadeshi movement and Boycott. - The Extremists wanted to extend the boycott movement beyond Bengal and adopt a more radical approach, while the Moderates preferred a more cautious and constitutional approach.

  7. The split between the moderates and the extremists in the Congress took place in the session of

    Asked in: Assistant Conservator of Forest (ACF) 2012

    1. Nagpur
    2. Varanasi
    3. Surat
    4. Madras
    Show answer

    Answer: C. Surat

    The Surat split marked a significant division in the nationalist movement, leading to two distinct factions with different ideologies and approaches. The Extremist faction was led by leaders like Bal Gangadhar Tilak, Lala Lajpat Rai, and Bipin Chandra Pal.

  8. Consider the following events during the Indian National Movement: - Appointment of Lord Curzon as Viceroy of India - Split in Surat Congress - Ilbert Bill controversy - Queen Victoria assumes the title of Express of India Which of the following is the correct chronological order of the events given above?

    Asked in: Paper I 4

    1. (iii), (iv), (ii), (i)
    2. (i), (iv), (ii), (iii)
    3. (iv), (iii), (ii), (i)
    4. (iv), (iii), (i), (ii)
    Show answer

    Answer: C. (iv), (iii), (ii), (i)

    - Queen Victoria assumes the title of Empress of India: 1877 - Ilbert Bill controversy: 1883-84 - Appointment of Lord Curzon as Viceroy of India: 1899 - Split in Surat Congress: 1907

The Swadeshi and Boycott Movement (1905-1908) as a point of divergence

  1. Which one of the following movements has contributed to a split in the Indian National Congress resulting in the emergence of 'moderates' and 'extremists'?

    Asked in: UPSC IAS 2015

    1. Swadeshi Movement
    2. Quit India Movement
    3. Non-Cooperation Movement
    4. Civil Disobedience Movement
    Show answer

    Answer: A. Swadeshi Movement

    The Swadeshi Movement provided the context and immediate catalyst for the fundamental disagreements between the Moderate and Extremist wings of the Indian National Congress regarding the methods and goals of the national movement, ultimately leading to the split at the Surat session in 1907.

  2. In April 1908, Prafulla Chaki and Khudiram Bose threw a bomb at a carriage in Muzaffarpur which they believed to be occupied by Kingsford. Which among the following correctly describes the profession of Kingsford ?

    Asked in: UPSC Geoscientist 2024

    1. Revenue Officer
    2. Judge
    3. Police Officer
    4. Army Personnel
    Show answer

    Answer: B. Judge

    In April 1908, Prafulla Chaki and Khudiram Bose attempted to assassinate Douglas Kingsford in Muzaffarpur. Kingsford was the District Judge at Muzaffarpur at that time. He had previously served as the Chief Presidency Magistrate in Calcutta and was known for handing down severe punishments to Indian nationalists and revolutionaries.

  3. Which of the following statements regarding revolutionary Vasudev Fadke are correct? 1. He resigned from government job and established a secret revolutionary organization. 2. He designed comprehensive plans to damage railway, post offices, and other government properties and kill government officers 3. He was given capital punishment in 1880

    Asked in: GPSC Prelims CSP 1 2022

    1. 1 and 2 only
    2. 1 and 3 only
    3. 2 and 3 only
    4. 1, 2 and 3
    Show answer

    Answer: A. 1 and 2 only

    Statement 1 is correct: Vasudev Balwant Phadke worked in the Accounts Department of the Government in Pune. Witnessing the suffering of peasants under British rule, he resigned from his job and formed a secret organization (often referred to as Ramaushi Dhangar) to organize an armed rebellion. Statement 2 is correct: Phadke and his group aimed to overthrow British rule through armed struggle. Their plans included disrupting communication lines like railways and post offices, attacking government treasuries (resorting to dacoity for funds), and targeting British officials. Statement 3 is incorrect: Vasudev Balwant Phadke was arrested in

  4. He was not given capital punishment. He was sentenced to transportation for life and sent to Aden prison, where he died in 1883 after a prolonged illness, possibly exacerbated by a hunger strike. 4. "Abhinava Bharat" a secret society of revolutionaries was organized by

    Asked in: GPSC Prelims CSP 1 2023

    1. Khudiram Bose
    2. V. D. Savarkar
    3. Prafulla Chaki
    4. Bhagat Singh
    Show answer

    Answer: B. V. D. Savarkar

    Initially founded as 'Mitra Mela' in 1899 in Nashik, it was renamed 'Abhinava Bharat Society' (Young India Society) in 1904. The society aimed at overthrowing British rule through armed rebellion.

  5. Who from the following took various names such as Raosaheb Peshwa, Bhausaheb Limaye, Ganesh Keshav Limaye, Bhaurao Limaye, Bahusaheb Kashinath Khasgiwale, Rajesaheb, Vithal Chhatre and Balwant Jagadamb ?

    Asked in: MPSC CS Prelims 2015

    1. Sadashiv Nilkanth Joshi of Pune
    2. Jaysing Ramchandra Pawar of Ahmadnagar
    3. Damodar Bhide of Nasik
    4. Keshavrao Vakil of Pune
    Show answer

    Answer: A. Sadashiv Nilkanth Joshi of Pune

    Sadashiv Nilkanth Joshi was a revolutionary freedom fighter from Maharashtra, associated with the Abhinav Bharat Society founded by the Savarkar brothers. Revolutionaries often used multiple aliases to evade detection and arrest by the British authorities. The list of names provided in the question is historically associated with Sadashiv Nilkanth Joshi.

  6. Within ten days of the ______ festival held at Poona, Mr. Rand, the Collector of Poona and another officer were shot dead while returning from the Government House.

    Asked in: MPSC CS Prelims 2016

    1. Shivaji
    2. Ganapati
    3. Durga
    4. Navratri
    Show answer

    Answer: B. Ganapati

    Mr. W.C. Rand, the Chairman of the Special Plague Committee in Poona, and Lieutenant Ayerst were shot dead on June 22, 1897, while returning from the Government House after attending Queen Victoria's Diamond Jubilee celebration. This assassination occurred within ten days of the conclusion of the Ganapati festival, which was popularised by Bal Gangadhar Tilak and used as a platform for nationalist activities and criticism of the government's handling of the plague. The perpetrators, the Chapekar brothers, were motivated by the harsh and intrusive measures implemented by the authorities under Rand during the plague epidemic.

  7. Match the following prisoners sent from Maharashtra to Andaman with their place of residence. (a) Adhuria (b) Pandu Bhorji (c) Dharma Subhan (d) Dhondi Birbal (i) Nagar (ii) Khandesh Yaval (iii) Nashik (iv) Pandharpur

    Asked in: MPSC CS Prelims 2021

    1. (a)-(ii), (b)-(iv), (c)-(i), (d)-(iii)
    2. (a)-(ii), (b)-(i), (c)-(iv), (d)-(iv)
    3. (a)-(iv), (b)-(iii), (c)-(ii), (d)-(ii)
    4. (a)-(iii), (b)-(ii), (c)-(iv), (d)-(iv)
    Show answer

    Answer: A. (a)-(ii), (b)-(iv), (c)-(i), (d)-(iii)

    This question tests specific historical knowledge about individuals transported to Andaman and their places of origin in Maharashtra during the colonial period.

  8. Who among the following had organised, in 1904, a secret society of revolutionaries named Abhinav Bharat ?

    Asked in: UPSC NDA 2 2020

    1. Khudiram Bose
    2. Shyamji Krishna Verma
    3. Har Dayal
    4. V D Savarkar
    Show answer

    Answer: D. V D Savarkar

    Abhinav Bharat Society was a prominent revolutionary organization involved in anti-British activities in India and also had branches in London.