Answer: 

Introduction:

The ‘Moderates’ were a prominent faction within the Indian nationalist movement during the late nineteenth century, advocating for political and administrative reforms within the framework of British colonial rule. However, by the end of the nineteenth century, they struggled to gain widespread support and conviction for their ideology and political goals among the Indian population.

Body:

• Limited objectives: They did not demand complete independence, which made their goals less appealing to many Indians who sought total freedom from British rule.
• Constitutional methods: The Moderates believed in constitutional methods and peaceful agitation to achieve their goals. This approach, which included petitions, memorandums, and speeches, was perceived as weak and ineffective by many Indians who wanted more assertive and direct actions against the British.
• Lack of mass support: The Moderates were primarily composed of educated, urban elites who did not have deep connections with the rural population, which constituted the majority of India.
• Economic issues: The Moderates did not adequately address the economic hardships faced by the Indian population under British rule, such as widespread poverty, famines, and exploitative economic policies.
• Rise of extremism: Leaders like Bal Gangadhar Tilak, Bipin Chandra Pal, and Lala Lajpat Rai advocated for more assertive and aggressive means to achieve independence, which resonated with many Indians disillusioned with the moderate approach.
• Fragmentation of the Congress: The division between the Moderates and Extremists within the Indian National Congress weakened the organization and diluted the effectiveness of the nationalist movement.
• British repression: As the nationalist movement gained momentum, the British authorities adopted repressive measures to counter it.

Conclusion:

Their approach was seen as ineffective and out of touch with the aspirations of the majority of Indians, who sought more radical and assertive means to achieve independence.

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