The Nehru Report of 1928 was a significant document in the history of India’s struggle for independence. It was prepared by a committee headed by Motilal Nehru, with the aim of presenting Indian nationalist aspirations for self-governance to the British government. The report emerged in response to the British government’s decision to appoint the Simon Commission in 1927 to recommend constitutional reforms for India, which was met with widespread opposition as it comprised only British members.
Background of The Nehru Report of 1928
The Simon Commission’s exclusion of Indian members sparked protests and boycotts across India, as it was seen as a denial of Indian representation in shaping their own political future. In response, the Indian National Congress appointed a committee chaired by Motilal Nehru to draft a constitution that reflected Indian aspirations.
Key Features
The Nehru Report proposed a comprehensive scheme for constitutional reform in British India. Its key features included:-
Dominion Status: The report demanded the grant of dominion status to India, which would provide self-governance within the British Commonwealth. This was in line with the growing demand for Indian autonomy within the British Empire.
Federal Structure: The report advocated for a federal structure with strong provincial autonomy. It proposed dividing India into provinces with elected legislatures and executive councils responsible to them. The federal government would handle only defense, foreign affairs, and communications.
Fundamental Rights: The Nehru Report included a Bill of Rights, guaranteeing fundamental rights such as freedom of speech, religion, and association. This reflected the influence of modern democratic principles on Indian nationalist thought.
Separate Electorates: The report recommended the abolition of separate electorates based on communal lines, arguing for joint electorates with reserved seats for religious and minority communities. This was seen as a step towards fostering unity and avoiding communal divisions.
Minority Representation: While advocating for joint electorates, the report also ensured adequate representation for minorities through reserved seats, aiming to protect their interests while promoting national integration.
Reception and Legacy
The Nehru Report received mixed reactions from different sections of Indian society. While it was hailed by many as a bold assertion of Indian aspirations for self-governance, it also faced criticism from conservative quarters, particularly regarding its stance on separate electorates and minority representation.
Despite its shortcomings and the subsequent rejection of its proposals by the British government, the Nehru Report played a significant role in shaping the discourse on Indian constitutional reform. It laid the foundation for future constitutional developments, including the Government of India Act of 1935, which incorporated some of its principles.
In conclusion, the Nehru Report of 1928 represented a crucial moment in India’s journey towards self-governance. It articulated Indian nationalist aspirations for constitutional reform and set the stage for subsequent negotiations with the British government, ultimately contributing to the broader struggle for India’s independence.
