With reference to the British colonial rule in India, consider the following statements:
- 1.Mahatma Gandhi was instrumental in the abolition of the system of ‘indentured labour’.
- 2.In Lord Chelmsford’s ‘War Conference’, Mahatma Gandhi did not support the resolution on recruiting Indians for World War.
- 3.Consequent upon the breaking of Salt Law by Indian people, the Indian National Congress was declared illegal by the colonial rulers.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
- A.1 and 2 only
- B.1 and 3 only
- C.2 and 3 only
- D.1, 2 and 3
▶ Answer & Explanation
Correct answer: B. 1 and 3 only
Mahatma Gandhi actively campaigned against the indentured labour system, highlighting its exploitative nature and contributing to its eventual abolition. During Lord Chelmsford's War Conference in 1918, Gandhi, despite his reservations about British war aims, supported the resolution for recruitment to aid the war effort, hoping it would advance India's case for self-rule. Following the widespread violation of the Salt Laws during the Civil Disobedience Movement, the colonial government did indeed ban the Indian National Congress and its associated bodies.
Source: UPSC gs1 2019