Question

Q27) Consider the following statements with respect to Partition of Bengal
i) Bengal was partitioned on the basis of religion and language
ii) The Partition of Bengal was annulled as a result of the Swadeshi movement
iii) Anti-partition movement was initially led by the Moderate leaders
Which of the above is/are correct?

• A. a) i Only
• B. b) i and iii
• C. c) ii and iii
• D. d) i, ii and iii

Answer 1

The correct option is B b) i and iii

Ans (b)
The plan of partition of Bengal was made known in 1903. The partition was implemented in Oct 1905. The plan was prepared by Lord Curzon (Viceroy), Risley (Home Secretary to the Government of India) and Andrew Frazer (Lt.Governor of Bengal). According to Curzon, the partition was to bring administrative efficiency. But the real motive was to divide the Hindus and Muslims and to make Bengalis a minority in their own land as Bengal was the nerve centre of Indian nationalism. The partition was hence done on the basis of religion and language. It was also aimed at affecting the economy of West Bengal. Thus, Curzon announced the partition of Bengal into
West Bengal + Bihar + Orissa – With Hindu majority population and a minority Bengali speaking population
East Bengal + Assam – With a Muslim majority population
The result of this was the beginning of Anti-partition/Swadeshi & Boycott/Vangabanga Movement (1905-1908). In the initial phase it was led by the moderates. Later, due to their failure in getting the demands fulfilled and getting partition annulled, the leadership was shifted into the hands of Extremists