The Simon Commission (1927) was boycotted by all Indian political groups because it did not include any Indian members.

Reasons for Boycotting the Simon Commission

All-White Composition

The commission, led by Sir John Simon, had no Indian members, which was seen as an insult. Indians demanded self-governance, but the British excluded them from discussions about their own future.

No Consultation with Indians

The British government unilaterally set up the commission without consulting Indian leaders, fueling resentment.

Violation of Self-Rule Demands

By 1927, Indians were demanding Swaraj (self-rule). The Nehru Report (1928) had already proposed a framework for India’s future, making the Simon Commission seem irrelevant.

Growing Nationalist Movement

Both the Indian National Congress and the Muslim League opposed the commission, showing rare unity in rejecting British policies.

Protests and Slogans

The commission faced massive protests across India, with people shouting “Simon, Go Back!”

During one protest in Lahore (1928), Lala Lajpat Rai was injured by police lathi charges and later died, further inflaming anti-British sentiments.

Impact of the Boycott

The widespread opposition led to the Government of India Act, 1935, which introduced limited reforms.

The protests strengthened the demand for complete independence, leading to movements like the Civil Disobedience Movement (1930).

Thus, the Simon Commission became a symbol of British ignorance toward Indian aspirations, further accelerating the f

reedom struggle.