Consider the following statements: 1. In the First Round Table Conference, Dr. Ambedkar demanded separate electorates for the depressed classes. 2. In the Poona Pact, special provisions for representation of the depressed people in the local bodies and civil services were made. 3. The Indian National Congress did not take part in the Third Round Table Conference. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

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YESPYQ · Accepted Answer

Correct answer: 1 and 3. The Round Table Conferences (1930-1932) were three meetings in London between British officials and Indian leaders to discuss constitutional reforms. Statement 1 is correct: At the First Round Table Conference in London in 1930, Dr. B.R. Ambedkar represented the depressed classes (now Scheduled Castes) and demanded separate electorates to ensure their adequate representation and protect their interests. Statement 2 is incorrect: The Poona Pact was an agreement between Dr. B.R. Ambedkar and Mahatma Gandhi(his representatives) in 1932. It provided reserved seats for the depressed classes (Scheduled Castes) in provincial legislatures and ensured their political representation. This pact replaced the separate electorates initially proposed for depressed classes. Statement 3 is correct: The Indian National Congress, led by Mahatma Gandhi, boycotted the Third Round Table Conference in London in 1932. The Congress had reservations about the British government’s proposals, believing the discussions would not yield a satisfactory outcome for India’s future. 140

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