The first major issue that the Indian Association took up for agitatio...
Reform of Civil Service Regulations and Raising the Age Limit for Its Examination
The Indian Association was founded in 1876 by Surendranath Banerjee and Ananda Mohan Bose, and it played a crucial role in India's struggle for independence. The first major issue that the Indian Association took up for agitation was the reform of the Civil Service regulations and raising the age limit for its examination.
Background
During the British colonial rule, the Indian Civil Service (ICS) was one of the most important institutions that governed India. The ICS was a highly exclusive service, and only a handful of Indians were able to pass its rigorous examination. The minimum age for appearing in the ICS examination was 19, which meant that many talented Indians were not eligible to take the exam.
Agitation
The Indian Association launched a campaign to reform the Civil Service regulations and raise the age limit for its examination. They argued that the ICS was a colonial institution that discriminated against Indians and that the minimum age for appearing in the examination should be raised to 21. They also demanded that the ICS exam be held in India rather than in London.
The Indian Association organized public meetings, protests, and petitions to press for their demands. They mobilized public opinion against the ICS and highlighted the discriminatory nature of the institution. The agitation was successful, and the British government eventually raised the age limit for appearing in the ICS examination to 21.
Significance
The agitation for the reform of the Civil Service regulations and raising the age limit for its examination was significant in several ways. First, it highlighted the exclusionary nature of the colonial administration and the need for Indian representation in the civil service. Second, it demonstrated the power of organized public opinion and the effectiveness of peaceful protests and petitions. Third, it paved the way for future struggles for Indian independence and democracy.
In conclusion, the Indian Association's agitation for the reform of the Civil Service regulations and raising the age limit for its examination was a crucial moment in India's struggle for independence. It demonstrated the need for Indian representation in the colonial administration and paved the way for future struggles for democracy and self-rule.
The first major issue that the Indian Association took up for agitatio...
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