Statement 1: There were certain blemishes in the performance of the Congress Ministries regarding civil liberties.

The statement is correct. While the Congress Ministries made significant contributions in various fields, there were indeed some blemishes in their performance regarding civil liberties. These blemishes can be attributed to both external and internal factors.

External Factors:
1. British Interference: The British colonial government often undermined the authority of the Congress Ministries and interfered in their functioning. They used their powers to restrict civil liberties and curtail the freedom of expression of the Congress leaders and supporters.
2. Emergency Measures: During times of crisis, such as World War II, the Congress Ministries resorted to emergency measures that restricted civil liberties. These measures were taken to maintain law and order and protect national security but at times resulted in the infringement of individual rights.

Internal Factors:
1. Factionalism: Within the Congress Ministries, there were differences of opinion and factionalism. This led to conflicts and compromises on issues related to civil liberties. Some leaders prioritized political stability and compromise over protecting civil liberties.
2. Inadequate Implementation: While the Congress Ministries formulated progressive policies and laws to protect civil liberties, the implementation of these measures was not always effective. The bureaucracy, which was largely inherited from the British administration, often acted in ways that were contrary to the spirit of these policies.

Statement 2: Pensions of officials associated with the civil disobedience movement were not restored.

The statement is incorrect. The pensions of officials associated with the civil disobedience movement were indeed restored by the Congress Ministries. This was done as a gesture of recognition and appreciation for their contributions to the freedom struggle. The Congress Ministries considered it important to honor and support those who had sacrificed their careers and faced hardships for the cause of independence.

During the civil disobedience movement, many government officials, including police personnel, resigned from their posts to join the freedom struggle. They faced disciplinary action and were denied pensions by the British colonial administration. However, after the Congress Ministries assumed power in various provinces, they took steps to restore the pensions of these officials. This was seen as a way to encourage and support the freedom fighters and recognize their sacrifices.

In conclusion, statement 1 is correct as there were certain blemishes in the performance of the Congress Ministries regarding civil liberties. However, statement 2 is incorrect as the pensions of officials associated with the civil disobedience movement were indeed restored by the Congress Ministries.

The Congress ministries did much to ease curbs on civil liberties: