Consider the following subjects with regard to Non-Cooperation Programme:

How many of the above were parts of Non-Cooperation Programme?

(a) Only one

(b) Only two

(c) Only three

(d) All the four

Answer: (c) Only three

Explanation:

• The Non-Cooperation Movement launched in 1920 under Mahatma Gandhi aimed at ending British rule through peaceful and non-violent means by withdrawing Indian support from colonial institutions.
• The boycott of law courts and foreign cloth was an important part of the programme. Indians were encouraged to stop using British courts and instead resolve disputes through indigenous institutions. The boycott of foreign cloth was promoted to encourage the use of swadeshi goods and weaken the British economy.
• Strict observance of non-violence was a fundamental principle of the Non-Cooperation Movement. Gandhiji clearly stated that the movement would remain entirely peaceful. When violence broke out during the Chauri Chaura incident in 1922, the movement was immediately withdrawn, showing how essential non-violence was to the programme.
• The statement regarding retention of titles and honours is incorrect. The Non-Cooperation Programme clearly asked people to surrender British titles and honours. Several prominent leaders returned their titles as a mark of protest against colonial rule. There was no provision to retain them privately.
• The establishment of village panchayats for settling disputes was also part of the programme. These panchayats acted as alternative institutions to British courts and helped promote self-governance at the local level.
• Therefore, statements I, II and IV are correct, while statement III is incorrect. Hence, the correct answer is (c) Only three.