OPSC OAS 2023 PrelimsHistory, Art & CultureQuestion 10
Solved previous year question from the OPSC OAS/OCS 2023 Preliminary Examination (General Studies), with the official answer key and a detailed explanation.
Question
Which of the following terms were not the terms of ‘August Offer – 1940’?
(1) A Nominated Indian Body would be formed after the War to frame the Constitution
(2) Dominion Status was not the objective of India
(3) More Indians representation in Viceroy’s Executive Council
(4) An Advisory War Council was to be established
Answer choices
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Answer & Explanation
Correct answer: (C) 1 and 2
Terms of August Offer 1940–
- Expansion of the Viceroy’s Executive Council: More Indians would be included in the council.
- Dominion status for India: India would be granted Dominion status after the war.
- Advisory War Council: An Advisory War Council would be established.
- Representation of Minorities: Safeguards for minorities and their interests were emphasized.
- Constituent Assembly: A Constituent Assembly would be formed after the war to frame India’s constitution. It was promised that the British Government would introduce a representative constituent body, consisting mainly of Indians, to frame India’s new Constitution.
Indian Response
- The Indian National Congress rejected the August Offer, as it fell short of their demand for complete independence and immediate self-rule.
- Mahatma Gandhi described it as a "post-dated cheque on a failing bank."
- The Muslim League welcomed some parts of the offer but maintained their separate demands for the rights of Muslims.
