What was the Objective of Simon Commission? Why was it Opposed in India?
By BYJU'S Exam Prep
Updated on: November 9th, 2023
The objective of the Simon Commission was to review the working of the Government of India Act 1919 and decide the political future of India. The Simon Commission was opposed in India because there was no Indian representative. It was a group of 7 British Members of Parliament headed by John Simon. The Simon Commission was also known as the Statutory Commission of India.
Objective of Simon Commission
The Government of India Act 1919 introduced the diarchy system to govern the provinces of British India. The Indian opinion opposed this form of government, and they raised their voices against amendments.
The exclusion of Indians was seen as an insult and a violation of the principle of self-determination.
Opposition of Simon Commission in India
The announcement of the Simon Commission evoked anger among Indians. They decided to boycott the Commission and demonstrated banners saying “Simon Go Back”.
- The Congress Party and the Muslim League (led by M A Jinnah) decided to boycott the Commission.
- A nationwide bandh was observed.
- Police lathi-charged protestors and the senior leader Lala Lajpat Rai was severely injured and succumbed to his injuries.
- There were mass protests, hartals, and black flag marches all over the country.
- The Government of India Act 1919 stipulated that a commission would be appointed ten years later to examine the progress of government planning and suggest new steps for reform.
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