Question

When were Congress governments formed in seven of eleven provinces?

Answer 1

Answer: July 1937

Explanation:

The formation of Congress governments in seven provinces in July 1937 was a significant milestone in India's political history. This happened following the Government of India Act 1935, which introduced provincial autonomy and expanded the electoral base across British India.

The provincial elections were held in early 1937 under this new act. The Indian National Congress emerged as the largest party, winning clear majorities in five provinces and becoming the largest party in two others. However, initially, the Congress was hesitant to form governments due to concerns about British interference and the lack of real power.

After negotiations and assurances from the British government that governors would not interfere in day-to-day administration, the Congress decided to accept office. In July 1937, Congress governments were formed in the following seven provinces:

• Madras (now Tamil Nadu)
• Bombay (now Maharashtra and Gujarat)
• Central Provinces (now Madhya Pradesh)
• United Provinces (now Uttar Pradesh)
• Bihar
• Orissa (now Odisha)
• North-West Frontier Province (now in Pakistan)

These Congress governments implemented various progressive reforms including prison reforms, debt relief for farmers, and promotion of khadi and village industries. They also focused on educational reforms and worked towards reducing communal tensions in their respective provinces.

However, this phase was short-lived. All Congress governments resigned in October 1939 when the British government unilaterally declared India's participation in World War II without consulting Indian leaders. This period of Congress rule, though brief, demonstrated the party's administrative capabilities and strengthened its position as the leading voice of Indian nationalism.