Consider the following statements about the work under Congress Minis...
- There was great enthusiasm among the people; suppressed mass-energy had got released.
- There was an increase in Congress's prestige as it had shown that it could lead people and use State power for their benefit.
- But the Congress ministries had some basic limitations: they could not, through their administration, change the basic imperialist character of the system and could not introduce a radical era.
Consider the following statements about the work under Congress Minis...
The correct answer is option 'A' which states that statement 1 is correct while statement 2 is incorrect. Let's understand the reasoning behind this answer.
1. Increase in the prestige of the Congress:
During the period of Congress Ministries, the Indian National Congress formed ministries in several provinces of British India. These ministries were formed after the success of the Civil Disobedience Movement and the Round Table Conferences. The ministries aimed to demonstrate the ability of the Congress to govern and effectively use state power for the benefit of the people.
The Congress ministries implemented various progressive policies and initiatives, such as agrarian reforms, labor welfare measures, expansion of education and healthcare, and promotion of local industries. This resulted in an improvement in the living conditions of the people and an increase in their trust and support for the Congress. The successful functioning of the ministries showcased the leadership and administrative capabilities of the Congress, thereby enhancing its prestige among the masses.
2. Changing the imperialistic character of the system:
The second statement, however, is incorrect. The Congress ministries were limited in their power and authority as they functioned within the framework of the British colonial system. They had to work within the constraints of the Government of India Act, 1935, which was a product of British imperialism. The Governor, who represented the British crown, had significant control and could override the decisions of the ministries. The British-controlled bureaucracy also posed challenges to the implementation of Congress policies.
While the Congress ministries made efforts to address the socio-economic issues and uplift the marginalized sections of society, they were unable to fundamentally alter the imperialistic character of the system. The ultimate decision-making power and control remained with the British authorities.
In conclusion, the statement that is correct is statement 1, which highlights the increase in the prestige of the Congress as it successfully demonstrated its ability to lead and utilize state power for the welfare of the people. Statement 2 is incorrect as the Congress ministries were unable to change the fundamental imperialistic character of the system in which they operated.