The correct answer is: a) Had strong support in Punjab initially.
The Indian National Congress (INC) was founded in 1885 by a group of educated Indians who wanted to bring about self-government for India. The INC was initially supported by a small number of educated Indians, but it gradually gained popularity among the wider population. In Punjab, the INC had strong support from the educated classes and from the Sikh community. The INC’s support in Punjab grew in the early 20th century, as the British government imposed more restrictions on Indian political activity. The INC played a leading role in the Indian independence movement, and it eventually achieved its goal of independence in 1947.
The other options are incorrect for the following reasons:
- Option b) is incorrect because the INC’s support in Punjab grew over time, rather than initially.
- Option c) is incorrect because the INC was not suppressed by the British in Punjab. In fact, the British government allowed the INC to operate in Punjab, although it did try to control the INC’s activities.
- Option d) is incorrect because the INC was not dominated by Sikh leaders. The INC was a secular organization that was open to members of all religions.