Consider the following statements:
1. In the First Round Table Conference, Dr. Ambedkar demanded separate electorates for the depressed classes.
2. In the Poona Act, 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 is/are correct?
A
1 and 2
B
2 and 3
C
1 and 3
D
1, 2 and 3
Correct Answer: Option C
Explanation
1. Statement 1 is correct. In the First Round Table Conference (1930-31), Dr. B.R. Ambedkar advocated for separate electorates for the depressed classes.
2. Statement 2 is incorrect. The Poona Pact (not Act) of 1932 reserved seats for the depressed classes in provincial legislatures within the general electorate, but it did not explicitly make special provisions for representation in local bodies and civil services in the way the statement implies; reservation in services came later through other government orders.
3. Statement 3 is correct. The Indian National Congress did not participate in the Third Round Table Conference (1932), having already launched the Civil Disobedience Movement again.
4. Therefore, statements 1 and 3 are correct.