Understanding the Non-Cooperation Movement Statements

The question asks us to evaluate two statements regarding the Non-Cooperation Movement, a pivotal phase in India's struggle for independence led by Mahatma Gandhi.

Analyzing Statement I: Objective of the Congress

Statement I says: "The Congress declared the attainment of ‘Swaraj’ by all legitimate and peaceful means to be its objective."

During the Calcutta session in 1920, the Congress passed the resolution for the Non-Cooperation Movement. This movement aimed to achieve 'Swaraj' (self-rule). While the initial objective of the Congress was Dominion Status within the British Empire, the goal of Swaraj became prominent during the Non-Cooperation Movement. Importantly, the movement strictly adhered to Gandhi's principles of non-violence and peaceful resistance. The means to achieve Swaraj were explicitly stated as 'legitimate and peaceful'. Therefore, this statement accurately reflects the objective and methodology adopted by the Congress during this period.

Statement I is correct.

Analyzing Statement II: Implementation Strategy

Statement II says: "It was to be implemented in stages with civil disobedience and non-payment of taxes for the next stage only if ‘Swaraj’ did not come within a year and the Government resorted to repression."

The Non-Cooperation Movement was indeed planned to be implemented in stages. The initial phase involved actions like the boycott of government titles, honours, institutions (schools, colleges, courts), foreign goods, etc. Subsequent stages were planned, including full civil disobedience and non-payment of taxes. The movement set a target of achieving Swaraj within one year (by October 1921 or January 1922, depending on the interpretation). It was understood that if Swaraj was not achieved within this timeframe and the government reacted with repression, the movement would escalate to include more intensive measures like civil disobedience and non-payment of taxes. This phased approach allowed for flexibility and increasing pressure on the government.

Statement II is correct.

Conclusion

Based on the analysis of both statements, both Statement I and Statement II accurately describe aspects of the Non-Cooperation Movement's objectives and implementation strategy.

Therefore, both statements given are correct in the context of the Non-Cooperation Movement.

Revision Table: Key Facts about Non-Cooperation Movement

Additional Information: Significance of Non-Cooperation Movement

The Non-Cooperation Movement was a turning point in India's freedom struggle. It marked the first mass movement under Gandhi's leadership that truly involved millions of Indians across the country. It popularised the concept of Swaraj and non-violent resistance (Satyagraha) as powerful tools against British rule. Although it was called off prematurely after the Chauri Chaura incident in 1922, it successfully demonstrated the potential for widespread public participation and instilled a sense of fearlessness among the people, significantly advancing the nationalist cause.