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

  • 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: (b) Extremists’ lack of faith in the capacity of the moderates to negotiate with the British Government

Notes:
  • Rash Behari Ghosh was the president of the Surat session of Congress in 1907.
  • Indian National Congress split into two groups i.e. moderates and extremists at the Surat in 1907.
  • The two main objectives placed by the extremists in the 1907 surat session were:
    • Lala Lajpat Rai to be made the President of the INC and Demand for the resolution of Swaraj and these two demands were not accepted by the moderates.
    • Instead of Lala Lajpat Rai, the moderates supported the idea of Rash Behari Ghosh as the President of the 1907 INC session of Surat.
  • Extremist’s lack of faith in the capacity of the moderates to negotiate with the British Government was the main reason for the split in the Indian National Congress at Surat in 1907.