Key Events and Responses during Simon Commission

Appointment of the Simon Commission: An All-White Panel Sparks Indian Outrage

The Simon Commission, established in 1927, faced immediate backlash in India for its all-white composition and exclusion of Indians. Congress and other groups called for a boycott, leading to nationwide protests and police repression. Key figures such as Dr. Ambedkar advocated for reforms but found limited success. The commission’s arrival sparked significant political and public unrest, illustrating the deep discontent with British policies and the growing demand for self-determination.

• Background: Under the *Government of India Act*, 1919, a commission was to be appointed ten years later to study governance progress. The Simon Commission was established on November 8, 1927, by the British government under Stanley Baldwin's prime ministership.
• Purpose: To assess if India was ready for further constitutional reforms and recommend the nature of these reforms.
• Composition: All-white, seven-member commission chaired by Sir John Simon. The appointment was influenced by fears of Labour Party defeat and dissatisfaction with the 1919 Act's results.

Indian Response: Widespread Opposition to the Simon Commission

• General Reaction: Immediate and nearly unanimous opposition due to the exclusion of Indians and perceived insult to self-determination.

Congress Response: Boycott and Demand for Independence

• Madras Session (December 1927): Decided to boycott the Simon Commission at all stages. Declared complete independence as the Congress goal.

Other Groups: Divided Opinions on the Boycott

• Support for Boycott: Supported by Hindu Mahasabha liberals and majority faction of the Muslim League under Jinnah. Split in Muslim League with support in Lahore and opposition in Calcutta.
• Non-Supporting Groups: Unionists in Punjab and Justice Party in the south decided not to boycott.

Public Response: Nationwide Protests and Demonstrations

• February 3, 1928: Commission’s arrival in Bombay led to nationwide *hartals*, rallies, and demonstrations. Active participation by youth, with Nehru and Subhash Bose emerging as leaders.

Dr. Ambedkar and the Simon Commission: Advocacy for Depressed Classes

• Role and Arguments: Appointed by Bombay Legislative Council. Advocated for universal adult franchise, provincial autonomy, and safeguards for depressed classes.
• Outcome: Reserved seats granted with conditions not fully satisfactory to Ambedkar.

Police Repression: Brutality Against Protesters

• Repression: Severe police actions including *lathicharges*. Nehru and G.B. Pant beaten, Lala Lajpat Rai fatally injured.