The Simon Commission, officially called the Indian Statutory Commission, was appointed by the British government to review the working of the Government of India Act (1919) and suggest reforms. Its arrival sparked nationwide protests as it excluded Indians from its membership, highlighting British disregard for Indian opinion.
Background
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The Government of India Act (1919) had introduced limited self-government, but Indian leaders demanded further reforms.
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By 1927, the British government appointed a commission under Sir John Simon to recommend constitutional changes.
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No Indian members were included, causing widespread resentment.
Objectives of the Simon Commission
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To review the working of the Government of India Act (1919).
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To suggest reforms for future governance of India.
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To assess the progress of self-government under British control.
Indian Response
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The all-party opposition was immediate and intense.
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The slogan “Simon Go Back” became the rallying cry of protests.
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Led by Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru, Lala Lajpat Rai, and other leaders.
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Protest methods included hartals, marches, and boycotts.
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Lala Lajpat Rai was injured in police lathi-charge in Lahore and later died, becoming a martyr.
Key Developments
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The commission traveled across India, facing hostile reception everywhere.
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Indians presented memoranda and demands for Dominion status, responsible government, and abolition of dyarchy.
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The commission’s recommendations were rejected by Indian leaders because it ignored Indian aspirations.
Impact on Indian Politics
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Unified all political parties and leaders against colonial disregard.
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Inspired the Nehru Report (1928), the first attempt by Indians to draft a constitution for India.
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Strengthened the demand for full self-rule rather than mere reforms.
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Increased momentum for mass movements, paving the way for the Civil Disobedience Movement (1930).
Key Takeaway
The Simon Commission (1928) highlighted the arrogance of British rule and excluded Indian voices from decision-making. It galvanized nationalist unity, intensified protests, and became a precursor to more assertive demands for Swaraj in the late 1920s and early 1930s.