How was the term minority defined by different groups?
N.G. Ranga, a socialist who had been a leader of the peasant movement, urged that the term minorities be interpreted in economic terms. The real minorities were the poor and the downtrodden. Some considered that the real minorities were the masses of our country who were so depressed and oppressed that they were ot even able to take advantage of the ordinary civil rights. Singh spoke eloquently on the need to protect the tribes, and ensure conditions that could help them come up to the level of the general population.
What historical forces shaped the vision of the Constitution?
What were the arguments in favour of greater power to the provinces?
How did the Constituent Assembly seek to resolve the language controversy?
Why did Mahatma Gandhi think Hindustani should be the national language?
Discuss the different arguments made in favour of protection of the oppressed groups.
What connection did some of the members of the Constituent Assembly make between the political situation of the time and the need for a strong Centre?
What were the ideals expressed in the Objectives Resolution?
Why was the jotedar a powerful figure in many areas of rural Bengal?
Why did the mutinous sepoys in many places turn to erstwhile rulers to provide leadership to the revolt?
To what extent are census data useful in reconstructing patterns of urbanisation in the colonial context?
How did Mahatma Gandhi seek to identify with the common people?
What did the Muslim League demand through its resolution of 1940?
How did zamindars manage to retain control over their zamindaris?
Discuss the evidence that indicates planning and coordination on the part of the rebels.
What do the terms “White” and “Black” Town signify?
How was Mahatma Gandhi perceived by the peasants?
Why did some people think of Partition as a very sudden development?
Examine how concerns of defence and health gave shape to Calcutta.
Why is Partition viewed as an extremely significant marker in South Asian history?
Why were many zamindaris auctioned after the Permanent Settlement?
Discuss the extent to which religious beliefs shaped the events of 1857.
How did zamindars manage to retain control over their zamindaris?
What are the problems of using official sources in writing about the history of peasants?
How did the Paharias respond to the coming of outsiders?
What explains the anger of the Deccan ryots against Fig. 10.20 the moneylenders?
Why did the salt laws become an important issue of struggle?
Why was the jotedar a powerful figure in many areas of rural Bengal?