In which year was the Partition of Bengal, initially implemented by the British in 1905, officially annulled?

The correct answer is 1911.

Key Points

• The Partition of Bengal was implemented by the British in 1905 under Lord Curzon’s administration, dividing Bengal into East Bengal and Assam, and West Bengal.
• It faced fierce opposition from Indian leaders and the general public, leading to protests, boycotts, and the Swadeshi Movement.
• Due to the intense backlash, the British annulled the partition in 1911 during the Delhi Durbar held to commemorate King George V's coronation.
• Post-annulment, Bengal was reunited, but Bihar and Orissa were carved out as separate provinces to ease administrative challenges.
• The annulment symbolized the growing strength of Indian nationalism and the organized resistance against British policies.

Additional Information

• Partition of Bengal (1905):
  • The division was justified by the British as an administrative necessity due to Bengal’s large size and population.
  • East Bengal was predominantly Muslim, while West Bengal had a Hindu majority, leading to communal undertones in the partition.
• Swadeshi Movement:
  • A key response to the partition, promoting the boycott of British goods and the use of indigenous products.
  • It marked the beginning of organized nationalist movements in India.
• Delhi Durbar (1911):
  • It was a grand event to mark the coronation of King George V and Queen Mary.
  • During this event, the British announced the annulment of the Partition of Bengal and the transfer of the capital from Calcutta to Delhi.
• Impact on Indian Nationalism:
  • The partition and its annulment highlighted the importance of mass movements and unity among Indians.
  • It strengthened the resolve of Indian leaders to fight for independence and helped unite various communities.