The Delhi Manifesto was a set of demands presented by Indian leaders to the British government in November 1929. It was a response to Irwin’s Declaration (October 31, 1929), where the British vaguely promised Dominion Status to India but without a clear timeline.
Key Demands of the Delhi Manifesto:
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Clear Commitment to Dominion Status
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The purpose of the Round Table Conference (RTC) should not be to decide whether India would get Dominion Status, but to frame a constitution for its immediate implementation.
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Congress Should Have Majority Representation
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The Indian National Congress should be the primary representative in the conference since it was the main political force in India.
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Release of Political Prisoners & Reconciliation
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The British should grant general amnesty (release) to political prisoners and adopt a friendly approach towards Indian leaders.
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British Response:
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Viceroy Lord Irwin rejected these demands, saying there was no fixed timeline for Dominion Status and that he could not promise Congress a majority in the RTC.
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This led to frustration among Indian leaders and further strengthened the demand for Complete Independence (Purna Swaraj).
Impact:
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Congress Rejected RTC Participation: Since its conditions were not met, Congress refused to attend the First Round Table Conference (1930).
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Lahore Session (December 1929): The rejection of the manifesto pushed Congress to formally declare Purna Swaraj (Complete Independence) as its goal.
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Civil Disobedience Movement (1930): Gandhi and Congress launched a mass protest, starting with the Salt Satyagraha (March-April 1930).
Conclusion:
The Delhi Manifesto was a last attempt by Indian leaders to negotiate peacefully with the British. However, Irwin’s rejection of these demands led to a radical shift in the freedom movement, with Indians now demanding full independence instead of just Dominion Status. 🚩