Question

Who said separate electorates was a “poison that has entered the body politic of the country” during the Constituent Assembly debates?

• A. Jawaharlal Nehru
• B. Vallabhbhai Patel
• C. Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi
• D. Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

During the discussions in the Constituent Assembly of India, Vallabhbhai Patel addressed the divisive nature of separate electorates. He referred to them as a "poison that has entered the body politic of the country." This statement reflected his belief that separate electorates would create divisions among the different communities in India, hindering national unity and integration.

The concept of separate electorates was introduced during British rule, allowing different religious communities to elect their representatives separately. Patel and other members of the Assembly viewed this as detrimental to the creation of a cohesive national identity, advocating instead for a unified electorate system. The decision to reject separate electorates was aligned with the vision of building a secular and unified nation, emphasizing equal representation without the fragmentation along religious lines. 

Therefore, during these debates, it was Vallabhbhai Patel who clearly articulated his perspective against separate electorates, underscoring the importance of inclusivity and national unity for the newly independent India.

Answer 2

Vallabhbhai Patel referred to separate electorates as "poison" during the debates in the context of India's struggle for independence and unity. He strongly opposed the policy of separate electorates, which would have divided communities and created a system that could lead to further communal divisions. Patel believed in the unity of the Indian people and saw the idea of separate electorates as a threat to the cohesion of the nation. He argued that separate electorates would only deepen divisions among Hindus, Muslims, and other communities, and prevent them from working together for India's independence.

Patel's view was that the nation's progress depended on the integration of all groups into the mainstream political process, where individuals would vote based on issues rather than religious or communal lines. His opposition to this divisive policy was part of his larger vision for a unified, secular, and independent India, where the rights and duties of all citizens were recognized equally.