Topic: The Freedom Struggle — its various stages and important contributors/contributions from different parts of the country.
1. Given the complexity and interplay of these factors, it is difficult to attribute the partition to any single individual or group. While various leaders, including Jinnah, Nehru, and Gandhi, played significant roles in shaping the events, the partition was the result of a culmination of historical circumstances and complex socio-political dynamics. Critically Comment. (250 words)
Difficulty level: Moderate
Reference: Chapter 37- India’s Struggle for Independence by Bipan Chandra.
Why the question:
The question is part of the static syllabus of General studies paper – 1.
Key Demand of the question:
To critically comment on as to why Partition happened and responsibility of various individuals and organisations for it.
Directive word:
Critically comment – When asked to analyse, you must examine methodically the structure or nature of the topic by separating it into component parts and present them in a summary. When ‘comment’ is prefixed, we must express our knowledge and understanding of the issue and form an overall opinion thereupon.
Structure of the answer:
Introduction:
Begin by mentioning the divisive politics played by the British leading to communal tensions in the Indian society.
Body:
Discuss various factors that led to the Partition of India such as rising religious tensions, socio-economic differences between the Hindus and Muslims, role of British, Muslim League and Congress and important personalities involved and their political strategies.
Conclusion:
Conclude by mentioning that Partition was neither a result of a planned agenda nor by chance. It was cumulative outcome of various factors at play.
