Which one among the following explains the meaning of the 'Safety Valv

Which one among the following explains the meaning of the ‘Safety Valve Theory’ in the context of Indian National Movement ?

[amp_mcq option1=”A theory that argued that the Congress was formed as a safe outlet to the discontented educated Indians” option2=”A theory that argued that the Congress was formed as a safe outlet to the hostile attitude of the British towards the Indian people” option3=”A theory which believed that the British and the ex-rebels of 1857 should amicably resolve their differences against each other” option4=”An idea aimed at promoting goodwill among the Indian people” correct=”option1″]

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UPSC CAPF – 2014

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The ‘Safety Valve Theory’ is a historical interpretation of the formation of the Indian National Congress. This theory suggests that the Congress was founded by A.O. Hume, a retired British ICS officer, with the tacit approval of the then Viceroy, Lord Dufferin, to provide a safe, constitutional outlet for the growing discontent and nationalist feelings among educated Indians. The aim was to prevent a potential violent uprising, similar to the Mutiny of 1857, by allowing Indians to voice their grievances through an organized platform under British supervision. Option A accurately reflects this theory.

– Propounders: Often attributed to Lala Lajpat Rai (though he presented it as a critique) and later elaborated by historians like R. Palme Dutt.
– Core Idea: Congress was formed to channel nationalist aspirations peacefully, preventing a rebellion.
– Key figures: A.O. Hume, Lord Dufferin.

While the Safety Valve Theory was a prominent interpretation for a long time, many modern historians argue that the formation of Congress was more complex and involved genuine efforts by Indian nationalists to create an all-India political organization. They contend that while Hume might have had his own motives and the British initially viewed Congress favorably, the organization quickly developed into a platform for genuine nationalist struggle.

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