Explanation: The Partition of Bengal in 1905 was a significant event in the history of India, particularly in the context of the Indian National Movement. The British government, under Lord Curzon, decided to partition Bengal into two provinces: Eastern Bengal and Assam, and Western Bengal. This decision was met with strong opposition from the Indian nationalist leaders, who saw it as a divide-and-rule strategy by the British to weaken the nationalist movement.
Among the leaders who opposed the partition, Surendra Banarjee and Krishna Kumar were particularly active in launching press campaigns. Surendra Banarjee, a prominent journalist and political leader, used his newspaper, "The Bengalee," to criticize the partition and mobilize public opinion against it. Krishna Kumar, another influential figure, also used the press to spread awareness and organize protests.
The press campaigns were crucial in galvanizing public support against the partition. They helped to create a sense of unity among the people of Bengal and fostered a strong anti-partition sentiment. The campaigns were part of a broader movement that included other forms of protest, such as the Swadeshi movement, which encouraged the use of Indian goods and the boycott of British products.
It is important to note that while Mahatma Gandhi was a significant leader in the Indian National Movement, his involvement in the anti-partition movement was not through press campaigns. Gandhi became a prominent figure in the movement later, particularly after his return from South Africa in 1915.
In summary, the press campaigns against the Partition of Bengal were led by leaders like Surendra Banarjee and Krishna Kumar, who used the media to mobilize public opinion and oppose the British decision. Their efforts were instrumental in the eventual annulment of the partition in 1911.