Partition of Bengal 1905: Reasons, Reaction and Reversal (O Level Notes)

The Partition of Bengal 1905 is one of the most frequently examined topics in Pakistan Studies Paper 1. It shows clearly how differently Hindus and Muslims saw their political future.

Quick answer: Bengal was partitioned by Viceroy Lord Curzon in 1905, creating the Muslim-majority province of East Bengal and Assam with Dhaka as its capital. Hindus opposed it through the Swadeshi Movement, Muslims welcomed it, and the British reversed it in 1911.

Reasons for the Partition

• Size: Bengal was the largest province of British India, with a population of around 80 million, and was difficult to govern as one unit.
• Administration: the eastern districts were neglected, with poor communications and policing.
• Political view: many Hindus believed the British wanted to weaken Bengali nationalism by a policy of “divide and rule”.

What Changed in 1905

• West Bengal (with Bihar and Orissa) had a Hindu majority.
• East Bengal and Assam had a Muslim majority, with Dhaka as the capital.
• The partition took effect in October 1905.

Muslim Reaction

• Muslims welcomed the new province because they were now a majority there.
• They expected better chances in education, jobs and trade, away from the dominance of Calcutta.

Hindu Reaction

• Hindus saw the partition as an attack on Bengali unity.
• Protest meetings, strikes and the Swadeshi Movement (boycott of British goods) followed.
• Some groups turned to violence, including attacks on British officials.

Why Was It Reversed in 1911?

• Continued Hindu protest and the boycott hurt British trade.
• The British wanted to restore order and win back Hindu support.
• The reversal was announced at the Delhi Durbar of 1911 by King George V.

Importance for Muslims

The Hindu campaign against partition convinced many Muslims that their interests were not safe with Congress. This led directly to the Simla Deputation and the founding of the Muslim League in 1906. The reversal in 1911 taught Muslims that they needed their own strong political organisation. For the background, read the Aligarh Movement notes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who partitioned Bengal in 1905?

Lord Curzon, the Viceroy of India, partitioned Bengal in 1905.

Why did Muslims support the Partition of Bengal?

Muslims became the majority in the new province of East Bengal and Assam and expected better opportunities in education, employment and trade.

When and why was the Partition of Bengal reversed?

It was reversed in 1911 because of sustained Hindu protest, the Swadeshi boycott of British goods and growing violence.