Question 16 of 18intermediate🔍 AnalyzeLong Answer8 marks

Why were the dialogues at the Round Table Conference inconclusive?

Correct Answer

The Round Table Conferences proved inconclusive due to several significant reasons.

First, the First Round Table Conference held in November 1930 was rendered an exercise in futility because it took place without the pre-eminent political leader in India. The absence of the main political leadership meant that no substantial decisions could be made.

Second, at the Second Round Table Conference held in London in the latter part of 1931, Gandhiji's claim that the Congress represented all of India was challenged by three parties. The Muslim League claimed to stand for the interests of the Muslim minority; the Princes argued that the Congress had no stake in their territories; and B.R. Ambedkar contended that Gandhiji and the Congress did not really represent the lowest castes.

Third, there was a deep disagreement over the issue of separate electorates. Gandhiji strongly opposed separate electorates for the Depressed Classes, arguing that they would ensure bondage in perpetuity and perpetuate the stigma of untouchability. He believed what was needed was the destruction of untouchability, not separate electorates.

Finally, the new Viceroy, Lord Willingdon, was deeply unsympathetic to the Indian leader. As a result, the Conference remained inconclusive, and Gandhiji returned to India and resumed civil disobedience.

Exercise: WRITE A SHORT ESSAY (250-300 WORDS) ON THE FOLLOWING: | Q: 7 | (Page 30)
For More Understanding

Explanation

The answer draws directly from the textbook context which explains why the Round Table Conferences failed. The first conference was futile without Gandhi. At the second conference, Gandhi's representative claims were challenged by the Muslim League, the Princes, and Ambedkar. The issue of separate electorates created further division, with Gandhi opposing them for Depressed Classes. The unsympathetic attitude of Lord Willingdon added to the failure.

Solution Steps

  1. Step 1: Identify the problem with the First Round Table Conference - absence of key leadership.

  2. Step 2: Analyze the challenges to Gandhi's representative claims at the Second Conference from three parties.

  3. Step 3: Explain the disagreement over separate electorates for Depressed Classes.

  4. Step 4: Note the role of Lord Willingdon's unsympathetic attitude.

  5. Step 5: Conclude with the outcome - inconclusive conference and resumption of civil disobedience.

PreviousNext