Historical Context of the 1920s Promise
In the 1920s, the Indian National Congress made significant commitments to address the aspirations of various linguistic groups within India. This period was marked by a growing consciousness of regional identities and the demand for political representation based on linguistic lines.
Promise of Own Province to Linguistic Groups
The correct answer, option 'C', refers to the Congress's promise to provide:
- Autonomy: The Congress aimed to create provinces that would be governed by linguistic majorities, allowing these groups to have a direct say in their governance.
- Representation: This promise was in response to the demands from various regions that felt marginalized. By granting provinces to linguistic groups, the Congress sought to ensure that local languages and cultures were represented in administration.
Significance of the Promise
This commitment had several implications:
- Cohesion and Unity: The promise aimed to foster a sense of unity among diverse linguistic communities while also recognizing their unique identities.
- Political Strategy: By addressing linguistic demands, the Congress aimed to consolidate support across different regions, thereby strengthening its position against colonial rule.
- Foundation for Future Demands: The promise laid the groundwork for future political developments in India, influencing the formation of states post-independence based on linguistic lines.
Conclusion
In essence, the Congress's commitment in the 1920s to establish provinces for linguistic groups was a pivotal moment in India's struggle for self-governance, reflecting the complexities of regional identities within the broader national movement. This promise aimed not only to empower linguistic communities but also to unify the country under a common goal of independence.