What was the main reason for the split in the Indian National Congress at Surat in 1907?
[UPSC Civil Services Exam – 2016 Prelims]
(a) Introduction of communalism into Indian politics by Lord Minto
(b) Extremists’ lack of faith in the capacity of the moderates to negotiate with the British Government
(c) Foundation of Muslim League
(d) Aurobindo Ghosh’s inability to be elected as the President of the Indian National Congress
Answer: (b)
Explanation:
- During the Surat session of Congress in 1907, Rash Behari Ghosh presided over the meeting, where the Indian National Congress split into two factions – the moderates and the extremists.
- The extremists demanded that Lala Lajpat Rai be appointed as the President of the INC and for the adoption of the resolution of Swaraj, both of which were rejected by the moderates.
- Instead, the moderates proposed Rash Behari Ghosh as the President of the 1907 INC session in Surat.
- The extremists’ distrust in the moderates’ ability to negotiate with the British Government was the primary cause of the split in the Indian National Congress during the Surat session in 1907.
Therefore, option (b) is the correct answer.
