Correct Option
The Simon Commission, formally known as the Indian Statutory Commission, was appointed in November 1927 to review the working of the Government of India Act, 1919, and to recommend future constitutional reforms for India. The primary reason for widespread agitation and boycott against the commission was its all-white composition, meaning it did not include any Indian members. This exclusion was perceived as a direct insult to Indian self-respect and a denial of their right to participate in determining their own constitutional future. Consequently, major political parties, including the Indian National Congress and the Muslim League, united in opposing the commission, leading to nationwide protests and the popular slogan "Simon Go Back."
Incorrect Options
Option 1: Indians did desire constitutional reforms and a review of the Government of India Act, 1919. However, their opposition was specifically directed at the all-white composition of the Simon Commission, not against the review process itself. They demanded a commission that included Indian representation.
Option 2: The Simon Commission's report, published in 1930, did recommend the abolition of Dyarchy in the provinces and the introduction of provincial autonomy. However, this recommendation was part of its findings and was not the cause for the initial widespread agitation and boycott against its arrival. The protests began immediately upon its announcement due to its composition.
Option 4: The Simon Commission did not suggest the partition of the country. The partition of India occurred in 1947, based on the Mountbatten Plan, which was proposed much later. The commission's mandate was related to constitutional reforms within British India.