Third Round Table Conferences: The Third Round Table Conference represented the final attempt to bring about a consensus on constitutional reforms for India through negotiations in the context of the British colonial rule. While it did not lead to immediate breakthroughs, it was part of the broader process that contributed to India’s path toward self-governance and independence.

Third Round Table Conferences

The Third Round Table Conference was the final conference in a series of three conferences held in London, England, between 1930 and 1932. These conferences were convened by the British government with the aim of discussing and deliberating on constitutional reforms for British India. The Third Round Table Conference brought together a diverse group of Indian political leaders, princely state representatives, and British officials to address various aspects of constitutional change. Here are the key features and outcomes of the Third Round Table Conference:

Background:

1. First and Second Round Table Conferences: The First and Second Round Table Conferences took place in 1930 and 1931, but they did not result in a comprehensive agreement on constitutional reforms for India.
2. Civil Disobedience Movement: The Civil Disobedience Movement, led by Mahatma Gandhi and the Indian National Congress, was ongoing in India. The movement included nonviolent resistance, protests, and boycotts of British goods.

Key Features:

1. Participants: The Third Round Table Conference, like its predecessors, had a diverse set of participants. The delegates were divided into three main groups:
   • Group A: Representatives of various Indian political parties, including the Indian National Congress, discussed issues related to self-governing provinces.
   • Group B: Delegates from the princely states focused on their role in a future Indian federation.
   • Group C: This group discussed minority interests, such as the representation of religious and ethnic minorities.
2. Continuation of Discussions: The Third Round Table Conference aimed to continue discussions on the proposed constitutional reforms for India.

Outcomes:

1. Continued Differences and Deadlock: The Third Round Table Conference, like its predecessors, was marked by significant differences among the participants on crucial issues, particularly regarding the role of the princely states and minority rights.
2. Congress Boycott: The Indian National Congress decided to boycott the Third Round Table Conference due to its dissatisfaction with the British government’s proposals and the lack of a clear commitment to full self-governance for India.
3. Efforts to Reach Agreements: Despite the challenges and differences, efforts were made to reach agreements on various issues, including the distribution of powers between the central and provincial governments and the representation of different communities.
4. Long-Term Impact: While the Round Table Conferences did not immediately result in a comprehensive agreement on constitutional reforms, the discussions and negotiations contributed to the shaping of the Government of India Act of 1935. This act introduced certain constitutional changes and set the stage for the eventual transfer of power and independence for India in 1947.

Download Third Round Table Conferences Notes PDF in Hindi

Download Third Round Table Conferences Notes PDF in English

Follow on Facebook

By Team Learning Mantras