Question

What was the primary goal of the "Nivarthana Agitation" ?

• A. Land reforms
• B. Representation in the Legislative Assembly
• C. Temple entry
• D. Educational reforms

Answer 1

Answer:

B. Representation in the Legislative Assembly

• The primary goal of the "Nivarthana Agitation" (also known as the Abstention Movement) in Travancore was to secure fair and proportionate representation for the historically marginalized communities (specifically Ezhavas, Christians, and Muslims) in the legislative assembly and in government appointments.

• This agitation arose in response to the administrative reforms introduced in Travancore in 1932, which the protesting communities feared would lead to them receiving fewer seats in the legislature than their population numbers warranted, while the dominant Nair community would gain disproportionately. They demanded representation based on their numerical strength, aiming to break the monopoly of the upper castes in governance and public services.