Previous Year Question
Consider the following subjects with regard to Non-Cooperation Programme:
I. Boycott of law-courts and foreign cloth
II. Observance of strict non-violence
III. Retention of titles and honours without using them in public
IV. Establishment of Panchayats for settling disputes
How many of the above were parts of Non-Cooperation Programme?
Correct Answer: C
Detailed Solution
I. Boycott of law-courts and foreign cloth — Correct
The Non-Cooperation Programme included the boycott of British law courts, withdrawal of lawyers from legal practice and boycott of foreign cloth. Swadeshi, khadi, the charkha and hand-spinning and weaving were promoted as alternatives.
II. Observance of strict non-violence — Correct
Keeping the movement completely peaceful and non-violent was an essential condition. For Gandhiji, non-violence was not merely an ideal but also the discipline and method of the movement. This explains why the movement was withdrawn after the violent incident at Chauri Chaura.
III. Retention of titles and honours — Incorrect
The programme required the surrender, not retention, of titles and honours conferred by the British Government. Gandhiji himself returned government decorations, including the Kaiser-i-Hind Medal.
IV. Establishment of Panchayats for settling disputes — Correct
Panchayats or arbitration courts were to be established as alternatives to British law courts so that Indians could settle their disputes through indigenous institutions.