The Simon Commission, officially known as the Indian Statutory Commission, marked a significant chapter in India’s struggle for self-determination during the interwar period. Established in November 1927, the commission was named after its chairman, Sir John Simon, a British politician. This article delves into the creation, objectives, composition, and aftermath of the Simon Commission, shedding light on its impact on the Indian independence movement.
Why was it Created?
The creation of the Simon Commission was prompted by the mounting demand for constitutional (administrative) reforms in British India. The Government of India Act 1919 had introduced limited self-government, but discontent with the existing political structure grew. In response to these demands, the British government decided to appoint a commission to review and recommend further constitutional changes.
However, the controversial aspect lay in the fact that the Simon Commission was an all-British affair, consisting solely of British members (only whites and no Indians. It was the suggestion of Lord Irwin to keep Indians out of that commission).
The exclusion of Indian representation became a major point of contention, as it reflected the British government’s reluctance to entrust Indians with a role in shaping their own destiny. The decision to have an all-British commission was met with vehement opposition from the Indian National Congress and other political entities in India.
Objectives of the Simon Commission
The primary objective of the Simon Commission was to assess the working of the constitutional reforms introduced by the Government of India Act 1919. The commission was tasked with reviewing the functioning of the system and proposing any necessary amendments or changes. However, the absence of Indian members in the commission fueled scepticism among Indians about the sincerity of the British government in addressing their concerns.
The Indian National Congress, under the leadership of leaders like Jawaharlal Nehru and Motilal Nehru, expressed strong reservations about the commission’s legitimacy and demanded Indian representation. The demand for “Swaraj” or self-rule gained momentum, as Indians felt that only a genuinely representative body could understand and address their aspirations.
Composition of the Simon Commission
The Simon Commission consisted of 7 members, involving only Britishers. Sir John Simon, a prominent British politician, served as the chairman. The absence of Indian representation became a symbol of the imperialistic approach adopted by the British government in dealing with India’s political future.
The exclusion of Indians from the commission led to widespread protests and opposition throughout the country. The commission’s composition not only undermined the principles of democracy but also intensified the call for greater Indian participation in decision-making processes.
Date and Arrival in India
The Simon Commission was appointed in Nov 1927, and it arrived in India on Feb 3, 1928, to conduct its inquiries. However, the commission’s arrival was met with protests and boycotts across the country. In several cities, massive demonstrations were organized, and protesters raised slogans demanding “Simon, Go Back!”
The most notable incident occurred in Lahore on October 30, 1928, when protesters clashed with the police, resulting in the death of Lala Lajpat Rai. This tragic event further fueled anti-British sentiments and intensified the demand for immediate constitutional reforms.
Aftermath and Legacy
The Simon Commission failed to achieve its intended objectives due to the lack of legitimacy and acceptance among the Indian populace. The protests and boycotts demonstrated the growing unity among Indians in their struggle against British imperialism. The incident in Lahore and the subsequent death of Lala Lajpat Rai became a rallying point for nationalists, inspiring future leaders like Bhagat Singh to carry on the fight for independence.
The Simon Commission, despite its shortcomings, played a pivotal role in shaping the course of India’s independence movement. It highlighted the need for Indian representation in decision-making processes and fueled the demand for complete self-rule. The events surrounding the Simon Commission laid the groundwork for future movements, eventually leading to India’s independence in 1947.
In conclusion, the Simon Commission stands as a crucial episode in India’s quest for self-determination. The commission, created to address constitutional reforms, inadvertently became a catalyst for heightened anti-British sentiments and united the Indian masses in their pursuit of freedom.
Important Points
Creation of the Simon Commission (1927)
– The Simon Commission, officially the Indian Statutory Commission, was established to review constitutional reforms in British India.
– Controversially, the commission comprised only British members, excluding Indians.
Objectives of the Simon Commission
– The primary goal was to assess the effectiveness of the Government of India Act 1919 and recommend any necessary amendments.
The lack of Indian representation raised doubts about the sincerity of British intentions and fueled the demand for self-rule.
Composition of the Simon Commission
– The commission consisted of seven British members, with Sir John Simon from the Liberal Party as the chairman, while Clement Atlee who became the Prime Minister when India got Independence was also a member of the Labour Party.
– The absence of Indian representation became a symbol of the British government’s imperialistic approach.
Date and Arrival in India (1928)
– The commission arrived in India in Feb 1928, sparking widespread protests and boycotts.
– Demonstrations and slogans like “Simon, Go Back!” reflected the rejection of the commission by the Indian populace.
Aftermath and Legacy
– The Simon Commission failed to gain legitimacy or achieve its objectives due to strong opposition.
– The Lahore incident in 1928, resulting in the death of Lala Lajpat Rai, became a pivotal moment, intensifying anti-British sentiments.
– The events surrounding the Simon Commission laid the groundwork for future movements, contributing to India’s eventual independence in 1947.
Impact on the Independence Movement
– The commission highlighted the need for Indian representation in decision-making processes.
– The protests and boycotts demonstrated growing unity among Indians and fueled the demand for complete self-rule.
– The legacy of the Simon Commission played a crucial role in shaping the course of India’s independence movement.
Quick Revision – Simon Commission UPSC
1. The Simon Commission, or Indian Statutory Commission, was formed in Nov 1927 to review constitutional reforms in British India.
2. It was named after its chairman, Sir John Simon, a British politician.
3. The commission’s primary objective was to assess the working of the Government of India Act 1919.
4. It consisted of seven British members, with no representation from India.
5. The absence of Indian members sparked widespread opposition and protests.
6. The commission arrived in India on Feb 1928 to conduct inquiries.
7. Demonstrations and slogans like “Simon, Go Back!” marked its arrival.
8. The Lahore incident in 1928 resulted in the death of Lala Lajpat Rai during protests against the commission.
9. The commission’s composition highlighted British reluctance to include Indians in decision-making.
10. The protests underlined the demand for self-rule and greater Indian participation in governance.
11. The commission failed to gain legitimacy or achieve its intended objectives.
12. The Lahore incident became a rallying point for nationalists and fueled anti-British sentiments.
13. The events surrounding the Simon Commission played a pivotal role in India’s independence movement.
14. It raised questions about the sincerity of British intentions in addressing Indian aspirations.
15. The commission’s legacy contributed to the demand for complete self-rule and autonomy.
16. The protests demonstrated a united front among Indians against British imperialistic policies.
17. The Simon Commission’s arrival led to boycotts and demonstrations across the country.
18. It highlighted the need for constitutional reforms that included Indian representation.
19. The commission’s failure to address Indian concerns intensified the call for swaraj (self-rule).
20. The Simon Commission’s impact laid the groundwork for future movements, contributing to India’s eventual independence in 1947.