UPSC Prelims 2002 Q53: Modern History – Early Nationalism & Indian National Congress (1885 - 1915)
Which one of the following submitted in 1875 a petition to the House of Commons
demanding India’s direct representation in the British Parliament?
- (a) The Deccan Association
- (b) The Indian Association
- (c) The Madras Mahajan Sabha
- (d) The Poona Sarvajanik Sabha
Answer: (d) The Poona Sarvajanik Sabha
Explanation
Petition of 1875 to the House of Commons on Indian representation
| Organisation | Role |
|---|---|
| Poona Sarvajanik Sabha | Founded 1870 by Ranade and others; petitioned the House of Commons in 1875 for direct Indian representation in Parliament |
| Indian Association (Calcutta) | Founded 1876 by Surendranath Banerjea — after 1875 |
| Madras Mahajan Sabha | Founded 1884 |
| Deccan Association | Founded 1878 in Poona |
The Poona Sarvajanik Sabha was active from 1870 and in 1875 submitted a petition to the House of Commons demanding direct representation of India in the British Parliament. The other bodies were set up after 1875.
Answer: (d) The Poona Sarvajanik Sabha.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) Incorrect. The Deccan Association was founded in 1878.
- (b) Incorrect. The Indian Association was founded in 1876.
- (c) Incorrect. The Madras Mahajan Sabha was founded in 1884.
- (d) CORRECT. The Poona Sarvajanik Sabha submitted the 1875 petition.
Key point
Pre-Congress bodies: BIA 1851, Poona Sarvajanik Sabha 1870, Indian Association 1876, Madras Mahajan Sabha 1884, Bombay Presidency Association 1885.
Remember
Poona Sarvajanik Sabha (1870) petitioned the Commons in 1875.
Common mistakes
- Choosing the Indian Association, the best-known body.
- Ignoring the year 1875 in the question.
- Mixing the Deccan Association with Poona Sarvajanik Sabha.
Exam tip
Only one body existed before 1875 among the options.
Sources
- Bipan Chandra — India's Struggle for Independence
- Spectrum — A Brief History of Modern India