The question asks for the primary reason behind the introduction of the Morley-Minto Reforms. To answer this, we need to understand the historical context surrounding these reforms and the political climate in India at that time.
Correct Option: C) The rise of nationalist agitation following the Partition of Bengal and the demands of Moderates
The Morley-Minto Reforms (Indian Councils Act of 1909) were a direct response to the escalating nationalist agitation, particularly after the controversial Partition of Bengal in 1905. This event fueled widespread discontent and the rise of extremist nationalism. Simultaneously, the Moderate faction of the Indian National Congress had been consistently demanding greater Indian representation and constitutional reforms. The British government introduced these reforms to appease the Moderates, isolate the Extremists, and create an impression of addressing Indian political aspirations, thereby attempting to defuse the growing unrest.
The question asks about the nature of Indian representation in legislative councils under the Morley-Minto Reforms (Indian Councils Act of 1909). Understanding the provisions of this Act regarding elections and nominations is key to answering this question.
Correct Option: D) Mostly elected indirectly, with some nominated by the Government. This accurately reflects the provisions of the Morley-Minto Reforms, which introduced indirect elections for a majority of non-official members, while retaining a significant number of nominated members to maintain British control.
The question asks which act amended the Indian Councils Act of 1909. To answer this, we need to recall the chronological development of constitutional reforms in British India and understand the relationship between these acts.
A) Government of India Act, 1919 (Montagu-Chelmsford Reforms). This Act introduced significant constitutional reforms, including diarchy in provinces and an expansion of legislative councils, thereby amending and superseding many aspects of the Indian Councils Act of 1909.
The question asks to identify the Indian leader who strongly criticised the principle of separate electorates introduced in 1909. This requires knowledge of the Morley-Minto Reforms of 1909 and the stance of prominent Indian leaders on this issue.
Correct Option: B) Gopal Krishna Gokhale was a prominent moderate leader of the Indian National Congress and a strong critic of the separate electorates introduced by the Morley-Minto Reforms of 1909. He believed this system would foster communalism and hinder national unity.
The question asks about the specific rights granted to members of legislative councils by the Morley-Minto Reforms (also known as the Indian Councils Act of 1909). To answer this, we need to recall the key provisions of these reforms regarding the powers of legislative councils.
Correct Option: D) Discuss the budget, ask supplementary questions, and move resolutions
The question asks for the alternative name of the Government of India Act, 1919. This requires knowledge of the historical names associated with key legislative reforms introduced by the British in India.
C) Montagu-Chelmsford Reforms: The Government of India Act, 1919, is indeed known as the Montagu-Chelmsford Reforms. Edwin Montagu was the Secretary of State for India, and Lord Chelmsford was the Viceroy of India when these reforms were introduced.