Question

Who was included in the group of moderates?

• A. Lala Lajpat Rai
• B. Aurobindo Ghosh
• C. Surendranath Banerjee
• D. Bal Gangadhar Tilak

Answer 1

Answer:

C. Surendranath Banerjee

Surendranath Banerjee was one of the prominent leaders of the moderate group in the Indian National Congress (INC) during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The moderate group, in the context of Indian politics during British colonial rule, advocated for gradual political reforms and believed in dialogue with the British government to achieve their goals.

The moderates generally believed in the following approaches:

1. Peaceful protests and legal methods rather than direct confrontation with the British government.

2. Seeking constitutional reforms, greater representation in the legislative councils, and the expansion of civil rights for Indians.

3. Using petitions and memorandums to press their demands for reforms.

Key leaders of the moderate group included:

1. Surendranath Banerjee – A key figure and one of the founders of the Indian National Association, which later merged with the Indian National Congress. He was an advocate for political rights and was known for his constitutional approach.

2. Dadabhai Naoroji – Often referred to as the "Grand Old Man of India," he was one of the first to highlight the economic exploitation of India by the British through his "Drain Theory."

3. Gopal Krishna Gokhale – A mentor to many prominent leaders, Gokhale emphasized the need for social reforms and believed in moderate political approaches to gain self-rule for India.

4. Pherozeshah Mehta – A close associate of Gopal Krishna Gokhale, he was an advocate of constitutional reforms and was involved in early movements for Indian representation in the British Parliament.

This moderate group was eventually contrasted by the extremist group led by leaders like Bal Gangadhar Tilak, Bipin Chandra Pal, and Lala Lajpat Rai, who demanded more radical approaches for Indian independence.