UPSC Polity Question
With reference to the history of constitutional legislation in Modern India, what was meant by the term Communal Award?
A. Offer of the British to create different states for all different religious communities at the time of independence.
B. Award announced by the British to recognize efforts of individuals to reduce communal tensions during non-cooperation movement.
C. Privileges in the form of large share in government services awarded by the British to communities who were loyal to them.
D. A separate electorate awarded to members of different communities after the Second Round Table Conference.
Correct Answer:
D. A separate electorate awarded to members of different communities after the Second Round Table Conference.
Explanation:
The Communal Award, announced by British Prime Minister Ramsay MacDonald in 1932, was a scheme of representation for minorities. It extended the system of separate electorates (previously for Muslims, Sikhs, etc.) to the 'Depressed Classes' (now known as Dalits).