Modern History : Non-Cooperation And Khilafat Movements (1919-1922)

Q 3 / 20

UPSC CSE Prelims 2025

Consider the following subjects with regard to Non-Cooperation Programme :

  1. Boycott of law-courts and foreign cloth
  2. Observance of strict non-violence
  3. Retention of titles and honours without using them in public
  4. Establishment of Panchayats for settling disputes
How many of the above were parts of Non-Cooperation Programme?

EXPLANATION

Correct Option

The Non-Cooperation Programme, launched in 1920, incorporated several key components aimed at challenging British authority and fostering Indian self-reliance.

Statement 1: Boycott of law-courts and foreign cloth was a central aspect. The boycott of law courts aimed to delegitimize the British judicial system, while the boycott of foreign cloth promoted indigenous industries (Swadeshi) and economic self-sufficiency.

Statement 2: Observance of strict non-violence (ahimsa) was a foundational principle of the movement, as mandated by Mahatma Gandhi. Adherence to non-violence was considered crucial for the moral integrity and effectiveness of the campaign.

Statement 4: Establishment of Panchayats for settling disputes was encouraged as an alternative to the British judicial system. This initiative aimed to promote local self-governance and reduce dependence on colonial institutions.

Therefore, statements 1, 2, and 4 were integral parts of the Non-Cooperation Programme.

Incorrect Options

Statement 3, "Retention of titles and honours without using them in public," is incorrect. The Non-Cooperation Programme explicitly called for the surrender of titles and honorary offices conferred by the British government as a mark of protest against colonial rule. Retaining such distinctions, even without public use, was contrary to the movement's objective of non-cooperation.

Options 1, 2, and 4 are incorrect as they do not accurately reflect the number of statements that were part of the Non-Cooperation Programme. Three of the provided statements align with the programme's objectives.

SOURCEIndia's Struggle for Independence by Bipan Chandra, Chapter 15: The Non-Cooperation Movement and Khilafat Aganiation