Part of: Bihar Gk set 9

Why did Rajkumar Shukla come to Annual Congress party session?

Category: Bihar Gk

Hint: Consider the socio-economic conditions in Bihar during the early 20th century.

Correct Answer: D) To complain against the injustice of landlord system in Bihar.

Exam Relevance: UPSC, SSC, State PSC

Difficulty: Moderate

Explanations:

Rajkumar Shukla was a farmer from Champaran, a district in the state of Bihar, India. During the early 20th century, the region was under British colonial rule, and the peasants were subjected to severe exploitation by the landlords, who were often British or Indian zamindars (landowners). The landlords imposed heavy rents and forced the peasants to cultivate indigo, a cash crop that was not suitable for the local soil and climate. This led to widespread poverty and hardship among the peasants.

In 1916, Rajkumar Shukla attended the annual session of the Indian National Congress in Lucknow. He approached Mahatma Gandhi, who was a prominent leader in the Indian independence movement, and requested his help in addressing the grievances of the peasants in Champaran. Shukla's persistence and the gravity of the situation convinced Gandhi to visit Champaran and investigate the conditions there.

Upon his arrival in Champaran, Gandhi found that the peasants were living in abject poverty and were subjected to various forms of exploitation. He organized a non-violent protest, known as the Champaran Satyagraha, which involved the peasants refusing to pay the unjust rents and demanding the abolition of the indigo cultivation system. This movement was a significant turning point in the Indian independence struggle, as it demonstrated the power of non-violent resistance and the importance of addressing socio-economic issues.

The correct answer, "To complain against the injustice of landlord system in Bihar," reflects the historical context and the primary motivation behind Rajkumar Shukla's actions. His efforts were not driven by personal gain or fame but were aimed at addressing the systemic injustices faced by the peasants in Champaran. This event highlights the role of local leaders and the importance of grassroots movements in the broader struggle for independence.

Option Analysis:
  • Option A: This option is incorrect. Rajkumar Shukla's actions were not motivated by personal wealth. He was a farmer who sought to address the injustices faced by peasants in Bihar.
  • Option B: This option is incorrect. Rajkumar Shukla did not seek fame for himself. His primary concern was the welfare of the peasants and the need to address the oppressive landlord system.
  • Option C: This option is incorrect. Rajkumar Shukla did not come to the Congress session to fight for money. His actions were driven by the desire to bring attention to the plight of the peasants and the injustices of the landlord system.
  • Option D: This option is correct. Rajkumar Shukla came to the Congress session to complain about the injustices faced by peasants under the landlord system in Bihar. His actions led to the Champaran Satyagraha, which was a significant event in the Indian independence movement.

Mnemonic: Rajkumar Shukla: "R" for "Rural" issues

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