Political Awakening

The early 20th century marked a significant shift in the political landscape of India. The Muslims realized that their interests were not being adequately represented by the Indian National Congress. This realization led to two major events: the Simla Deputation and the subsequent formation of the All India Muslim League in 1906, the party that would eventually lead the movement for Pakistan.

• Partition of Bengal (1905): A British administrative move by Lord Curzon that favored Muslims; fiercely opposed by Hindus.
• Simla Deputation (1906): A group of 35 prominent Muslim leaders led by Sir Aga Khan who met the Viceroy to demand separate electorates.
• Foundation of AIML (1906): The formal creation of a political party for Muslims during the Muhammadan Educational Conference.
• Minto-Morley Reforms (1909): The constitutional acceptance of separate electorates for Muslims.

• Nawab Salimullah Khan of Dhaka proposed the formation of the Muslim League during the annual session of the Muhammadan Educational Conference.
• Sir Aga Khan was the first permanent President of the All India Muslim League.
• The First Session of the Muslim League was held at Karachi in 1907.
• The Headquarters of the AIML were initially established in Aligarh, later moved to Lucknow.
• Separate Electorates meant that Muslims would vote only for Muslim candidates in specific constituencies, ensuring fair representation.

• Q: When and where was the All India Muslim League founded?
• A: December 30, 1906, in Dhaka.
• Q: Who led the Simla Deputation in 1906?
• A: Sir Aga Khan.
• Q: Which British Viceroy accepted the demand for separate electorates?
• A: Lord Minto.
• Q: Who was the Viceroy when Bengal was partitioned in 1905?
• A: Lord Curzon.

"In which year was the partition of Bengal (1905) annulled due to intense pressure from the Indian National Congress and Hindu agitation?"

A) 1909

B) 1911

C) 1913

D) 1916

(Correct: B - 1911)