Question
UPSC Prelims 2021 Question:
Consider the following statements:
- The Montagu-Chelmsford Reforms of 1919 recommended granting voting rights to all the women above the age of 21.
- The Government of India Act of 1935 gave women reserved seats in legislature.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Answer (Detailed Solution Below)
Option 2: 2 only
Detailed Solution
Explanation:
- Montagu-Chelmsford Reforms were constitutional reforms announced in July 1918. Based on these reforms the Government of India Act of 1919, was enacted.
- Montagu-Chelmsford Reforms of 1919 did not recommend voting rights to women above the age of 21. So, statement 1 is not correct.
- The Government of India Act 1935 came into effect in 1937. It was based on a report by a Joint Select Committee, led by Lord Linlithgow.
- The Government of India Act of 1935, had provisions granting reserved seats for women on a communal basis (Communal Electorates). Women could contest from any general seat. There were wifehood qualifications (marriage was a criterion for women’s enfranchisement). So, statement 2 is correct.
Therefore, option (2) is the correct answer.
Subject: History | Administrative organisation and social and cultural policy of British
Latest UPSC Exam 2026 Updates
Last updated on March, 2026
