What was the main reason for the split in the Indian National Congress

What was the main reason for the split in the Indian National Congress at Surat in 1907?

Join Our Telegram Channel

Introduction of communalism into Indian politics by Lord Minto

Extremists' lack of faith in the capacity of the moderates to negotiate with the British Government

Foundation of Muslim League

Aurobindo Ghosh's inability to be elected as the President of the Indian National Congress

Answer is Right!

Answer is Wrong!

This question was previously asked in

UPSC IAS – 2016

Download PDF Attempt Online

The main reason for the split in the Indian National Congress at Surat in 1907 was the fundamental disagreement between the Moderate and Extremist factions over the methods of political struggle and the pace of reform. The Extremists had lost faith in the Moderates’ approach of constitutional petitions and negotiations with the British Government, viewing it as ineffective and too slow.

The Surat split occurred primarily due to ideological differences regarding strategy and goals between the Moderates (led by leaders like Gopal Krishna Gokhale) and the Extremists (led by leaders like Bal Gangadhar Tilak, Lala Lajpat Rai, and Bipin Chandra Pal – the ‘Lal Bal Pal’ trio).

Specific issues leading to the split included disagreements over the resolution on Swaraj (self-rule), Boycott, Swadeshi, and National Education adopted at the Calcutta session in 1906, and the election of the Congress President for the Surat session. The Extremists wanted Tilak or Lajpat Rai as president, while the Moderates managed to elect Rash Behari Ghosh. Lord Minto’s policies and the foundation of the Muslim League in 1906 were significant developments of the time but were not the direct main cause of the INC split itself, though the political climate influenced the growing divide.

More similar MCQ questions for Exam preparation:-