Indian Constitution-Historical Background (VSAQs)
Political Science-2 | 1. Indian Constitution-Historical Background – VSAQs:
Welcome to VSAQs in Chapter 1: Indian Constitution-Historical Background. This page features the most crucial FAQs for Very Short Answer Questions. Answers are given in simple English and follow the exam format. This helps you focus on essential points and aim for top marks in your final exams.
VSAQ-1: Moderates in the Indian National Movement
The Moderates were influential leaders in the Indian National Movement who believed in achieving their goals through peaceful and non-violent methods. Imagine wanting something very important, but instead of demanding it aggressively, you try to ask politely, hoping the other person would understand your point of view. Leaders like Dadabhai Naoroji, Gopala Krishna Gokhale, and Surendra Nath Banerjee were at the forefront of this approach. They believed that the British rulers, who were seen as champions of Liberalism and Democracy, would listen to their demands if presented peacefully. Their methods included mediation, petitions, protests, and prayers—all aimed at voicing their demands without resorting to violence.
VSAQ-2: Methods of the Extremists
The Extremists, on the other hand, believed in a more assertive approach during the Indian National Movement. Think of them as people who, instead of politely asking for something, decide to take stronger steps to make their point. They practiced Passive Resistance, meaning they would peacefully disobey British laws. They also believed in encouraging education to empower the masses, thinking that a well-informed population would be stronger against colonial rule. To weaken British control, they boycotted British goods, government offices, and titles—basically refusing to use anything British. The Swadeshi Movement was a significant part of this, where they promoted using Indian-made goods instead of British products. They also used festivals and community gatherings as a way to unite people and spread the idea of self-rule.
VSAQ-3: Civil Disobedience Movement
The Civil Disobedience Movement began on March 12, 1930, led by Mahatma Gandhi. Imagine a group of friends deciding to break a rule together because they believe it is unfair. Gandhi, along with 78 of his followers, started a 240-mile march from Sabarmati Ashram to the village of Dandi. They did this to protest the unfair salt laws imposed by the British. This march is famously known as the Salt Satyagraha Movement. It was not just about salt; it was about uniting people across India and filling them with a strong sense of national pride and self-respect.
VSAQ-4: Minto Morley Reforms Act
The Minto Morley Reforms Act of 1909 was like adding more chairs to a big meeting so more people could join the discussion. Lord Minto, the Viceroy of India, and Lord John Morley, the Secretary of State for India, introduced this act to allow more Indians to have a voice in the government. The number of members in the central legislative council was increased from 16 to 60, which can be compared to making a gathering more inclusive by inviting more participants. Additionally, they introduced an indirect election system, where instead of everyone voting directly, representatives were chosen by a smaller group, similar to friends choosing someone to speak on their behalf in a game.
VSAQ-5: Constituent Assembly
The Constituent Assembly was like a team of experts coming together to design the rules for a new game—except this was about creating the Constitution of India. With 389 members, this assembly was elected by the people and set up 22 committees to draft the constitution. Key figures like Jawaharlal Nehru, Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, Rajendra Prasad, Sarojini Naidu, and Moulana Azad played vital roles in this process. Their task was monumental, as they had to ensure that the constitution would reflect the aspirations and needs of the entire nation.
VSAQ-6: Drafting Committee
The Drafting Committee was one of the most important committees of the Constituent Assembly, led by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar. Imagine being part of a group responsible for writing the rules that everyone in the country has to follow. The committee included members like Syed Mohammed Sadulla, D.P. Khaitan, B.L. Mitter, N. Gopala Swamy Iyyengar, Dr. K.M. Munshi, and Sir Alladi Krishna Swamy. Their job was to draft the Constitution of India, ensuring it was well-structured and fair for governing the country.
VSAQ-7: Preamble of the Indian Constitution
The Preamble of the Indian Constitution is like the introduction to a book that gives you a sneak peek of what is inside. It sets the tone and outlines the fundamental values, goals, and aspirations of the nation. It starts with the phrase “we the people of India,” emphasizing that the ultimate power lies with the people. Through the 42nd Amendment Act in 1976, the Preamble was made even more inclusive, ensuring that it reflected the broad vision of the nation. This part of the constitution is like a collective message, expressing the future that the people of India aspire to build together.
VSAQ-8: Universal Adult Franchise
Universal adult franchise in India is like saying, “Everyone gets a vote!” regardless of who they are. It is a fundamental right granted by the constitution, allowing every adult citizen in India, aged 18 and above, to vote, no matter their caste, religion, language, region, or gender. This means that during elections, whether at the national, state, or local level, every eligible person has the power to choose their leaders. In 1988, this right was expanded by lowering the voting age from 21 to 18, enabling young adults to participate fully in shaping the country’s future.