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Key Facts about Montague Declaration 1917
- The “Montague Declaration” was a statement made by Edwin Montague, the then Secretary of State for India, in the British Parliament on August 20, 1917.
- It outlined the British government’s intention to gradually introduce self-governing institutions in India with the ultimate goal of achieving responsible government.
- This declaration marked a shift in British policy towards greater Indian involvement in governing their affairs.
- The declaration was a response to growing nationalist sentiments in India and pressure from Indian leaders who sought more autonomy and representation in the governance of their country.
Edwin Montagu
- Edwin Samuel Montagu was a British Liberal politician.
- He served as Secretary of State for India from 1917 to 1922.
- He played a key role in the Montagu–Chelmsford Reforms, which led to the Government of India Act 1919. This Act was significant because it marked a step towards India’s eventual goal of achieving dominion status within the British Empire.
- Montagu held several important positions before becoming Secretary of State for India, including Under-Secretary of State for India and Financial Secretary to the Treasury.
- As Secretary of State, he represented British interests in India but also supported some reforms that acknowledged Indian aspirations.
- Montagu also represented India at the Paris Peace Conference in 1919, where he defended the interests of Muslim communities, particularly regarding Turkey.