Difficulty: Easy
Correct Answer: The All India Muslim League
Explanation:
Introduction / Context:
This question deals with a politically sensitive episode from the late 1930s. “A Day of Deliverance and Thanksgiving” was observed after Congress ministries resigned in several provinces. Knowing who celebrated this day helps you understand the growing rift between the Congress and the Muslim League on the eve of the Second World War.
Given Data / Assumptions:
Concept / Approach:
In 1939, when the British government dragged India into World War II without consulting Indian representatives, the Congress ministries in several provinces resigned in protest. Muhammad Ali Jinnah, leader of the All India Muslim League, called for the celebration of a “Day of Deliverance and Thanksgiving” to mark the end of what he described as Congress tyranny in those provinces. The Muslim League and its supporters observed this day, highlighting the deep political divide between the two major parties.
Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Recall that Congress ministries resigned in late 1939 over India's forced entry into World War II.Step 2: Remember that Jinnah took this opportunity to present Congress rule as oppressive from the League's point of view.Step 3: He therefore called for a “Day of Deliverance and Thanksgiving” to celebrate the end of Congress provincial rule.Step 4: This call was issued by the Muslim League, not by Congress or other parties.Step 5: Thus, the organisation that actually celebrated the day was the All India Muslim League.
Verification / Alternative check:
Modern Indian history textbooks mention this episode when discussing the political situation at the start of World War II. They state that Jinnah and the Muslim League celebrated a Day of Deliverance and Thanksgiving after the Congress ministries resigned. Exam-oriented summaries also match the phrase directly with the Muslim League, leaving little room for doubt about the correct answer.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
The Indian National Congress: It was the resignation of Congress ministries that triggered the League's celebration; Congress did not celebrate this event.The Forward Bloc: A group led by Subhas Chandra Bose, but not the initiator of this particular observance.The Communist Party of India: Although active in that period, it is not associated with the phrase “Day of Deliverance and Thanksgiving”.
Common Pitfalls:
Students may mistakenly think that Congress celebrated its own act of protest, but the phrase “deliverance and thanksgiving” clearly reflects an opposing political narrative. Another pitfall is confusion among multiple parties active at that time. To avoid this, memorise the specific linkage: Day of Deliverance (1939) – celebrated by the All India Muslim League under Jinnah.
Final Answer:
“A Day of Deliverance and Thanksgiving” in 1939 was celebrated by the All India Muslim League.
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