1935 Government of India Act Quiz and Flashcards

Study Notes

Overview of the Government of India Act 1935

The Government of India Act 1935 was a piece of legislation enacted by the British Parliament that aimed to reform governance in British India. It replaced several earlier acts such as the Indian Councils Act 1892 (the so-called Morley–Minto reforms) and the Indian Council's Act 1909 (the so-called Montagu–Chelmsford Reforms). This act established the principle of self-determination in India, whereby people would gradually exercise more control over their own government through elections and representation in legislatures.

Among its many features, the Government of India Act created new provinces, gave more powers to elected officials, made provisions for nationalist leaders to work with the colonial rulers, and expanded the scope of provincial autonomy. However, this constitution did not bring significant change until it was superseded by the Constitution of India in 1950.

In this article, we will explore the background of the act's creation during the independence movement, discuss how it worked within the parameters set by the British government, touch upon negotiations leading to independence, examine popular movements and resistance against the act, delve into the partition of India and its aftermath, and conclude with a brief discussion on the post-partition era and rehabilitation efforts.

Independence Movement and the Government of India Act

The independence movement was underway when the act was passed, with various factions advocating for different strategies to gain freedom from British rule. One faction, led by Mahatma Gandhi, emphasized nonviolent civil disobedience through campaigns such as the Salt March and Quit India movement. Another faction, headed by Subhas Chandra Bose, sought military resistance through groups like the Indian National Army. The government used the 1935 Act's provisions to arrest leaders like Gandhi during these uprisings.

Working of the GOI Act

Under the influence of the Act, the Viceroy made two declarations: one in 1937 giving provincial autonomy, and another in 1940 allowing some provinces to have legislatures entirely composed of elected members without the Governor's approval. However, key issues remained centralized, including defense, foreign affairs, communications, justice, finance, and industries. This balance between federalism and unitary governance allowed the British to retain control while granting limited regional autonomy.

Negotiations for Independence

In the wake of World War II, the British and Congress began negotiations for India'ss independence that would lead to the Government of India Act 1935 being replaced. After the war, the Muslim League pushed for an independent Pakistan, leading to communal violence and tensions culminating in the partition in 1947.

Popular Movements and Resistance Against the Act

Popular movements against the act were driven by the desire for self-rule and were characterized by protests, strikes, and boycotts. Notable among these were the Quit India movement led by Gandhi, which called for the immediate withdrawal of the British from all areas under their rule.

Partition, Riots, and Rehabilitation

The partition of India in 1947 resulted in mass migration and violence affecting millions of people on both sides of the border. The rehabilitation process involved repatriation of refugees, relief measures, and reconstruction efforts by governments and non-governmental organizations. Despite its challenges, this period marked the end of colonial rule and the beginning of independent nations - India with its diverse population and Pakistan with its distinct religious identity.

Conclusion

Throughout its history, the Government of India Act 1935 played a significant role in shaping India's path towards independence. As we reflect on its impact, it is clear that the act served as a stepping stone towards self-determination, laying the groundwork for more progressive changes that eventually led to India's emergence as a sovereign nation.

Description

Test your knowledge on the Government of India Act 1935 with this quiz covering its background, key features, impact on Indian independence movement, negotiations for independence, popular movements, resistance, partition, riots, and rehabilitation efforts post-independence.